Everett’s Clark Park Begins New Chapter With Dog Park, Bids Farewell to Historical Gazebo

The new dog park entrance at Clark Park.
Photo credit: MPLowell Photography

The new off-leash dog area at Clark Park in downtown Everett is officially open. Nearby residents are enjoying the change in scenery, though some still miss the gazebo.

The decision to remove the century-old Gazebo in Clark Park was controversial. Many tried to save it, but ultimately the city council was influenced by nearby residents who grew tired of homeless encampments, drug use, and crime that occurred at the park.

Two dogs enjoying the new off-leash dog park. Photo credit: MPLowell Photography

So far, it appears the decision to create a dog park area has changed the environment the way the residents were hoping. The off-leash dog park is already being used by dog owners and the feedback we’ve received from residents has been positive.

One resident commented “This is what a park should look like!”

The $360,000 project, completed in partnership with the Bayside Neighborhood Association, also brought improved lighting and maintenance upgrades to the park’s playground.

Construction of the dog park began in November 2024 and was completed earlier this summer.

“Clark Park has long been a cherished part of Everett’s history, and today we’re proud to add a new chapter to that legacy,” Everett Parks Director Bob Leonard said at Tuesday’s ribbon-cutting. “We know how important it is for dogs to have a place to run, play and socialize, and for their humans to connect as well.”

Clark Park was named after one of Everett’s founders, John J. Clark. Built in 1894, it was originally named “City Park” for it was the first park in Everett. It had a grandstand and hosted concerts until the late 70s.

The Gazebo had fence around it for nearly a decade and was finally removed a couple years ago. Unfortunately, the Gazebo and park became a place for homeless to sleep, especially after the no sit-no lie ordinance because parks were exempt.

The Gazebo was disassembled and now lives in storage with hopes of relocating to another park in the future. Many fear that it will never escape storage.