Area dogs are giving the inaugural year of Lemont’s newly opened Central Bark an enthusiastic two paws up.

And while Lemont Township officials are pleased, they said the dog park, located at Heritage Woodland Sanctuary Park at 127th Street and Timberline Drive, still is a work in progress.

“We rate it as a pleasant community gathering place which still needs improvement,” Township Trustee Kathy Henrikson said.

The dog park consists of two areas, one for larger dogs and one for smaller dogs.

Currently, the large dog side of the park is being reseeded in hopes it will be in top condition by next spring.

Next summer, the new community center will open, allowing patrons a facility to use when visiting Central Bark and the 59-acre Heritage Woodland Sanctuary.

The facility was named by Alice and Jim Chin of Lemont, strong proponents of having a dog park in the village.

Karen Enyart and her dog, Annie, go to the park as often as they can.

“Honestly, my two favorite places in Lemont are the library and the dog park,” Enyart said. “Annie thinks she should go at least once a day. Our family has made a new circle of friends thanks to our dog and visiting the park.”

Last Sunday, township officials held a Howlaween grand opening event, which included a pet parade and costume contest.

Three pets took home prizes for their costumes, including first-place winner Chomper, who dressed as the character Shrek; second-place winner Charlie, who came dressed as a rock star complete with a leather jacket and red wig; and third- place winner Annie, who was dressed as a banana.

“I think everyone had a fantastic time,” Henrikson said. “The Dog Park Committee hopes to make this an annual township event.”