The Farmville community will officially celebrate the dedication of the Dr. Erica Dawn Geary Memorial Dog Park on Friday, Jan. 8, at 3 p.m.

“Things are really starting to come to fruition,” said Town Councilman Thomas Pairet during a recent council meeting.

He said that Geary’s family will attend the opening of the park.

Pairet said guest speakers for the grand opening will include Town Manager Gerald Spates and Dr. Mark French, of Ridge Animal Hospital.

Dogs in attendance will have the opportunity to enjoy treats, Pariet said.

Although the dog park has been open for public use since Nov. 21, the official grand opening will allow community members the opportunity come together to formally dedicate the park.

“Hopefully people will come and show their support for the dog park and bring their dogs as well,” Pairet said.

Spates said the official sign for the park arrived on Dec. 9 and a dedication plaque for Geary is in the works.

“[The park is] being very well used,” Spates said.

Pairet said the cost of the park has been budget friendly. “I can honestly say at this point we’re under budget considerably,” he said.

According to Spates, a budget of $30,000 was initially set for the construction of the park, and even with the outstanding invoices, only $25,806 has been spent.

Geary — a veterinarian at Ridge Animal Hospital — died from injuries she sustained in an automobile accident on April 3. The 26-year-old was driving home to Maryland at the time of the accident to see her family for Easter.

The dog park was established in memory of Geary’s dedication to the animals and pet owners she cared for.

“She was someone who was obviously young and dedicated her life service to the animal world,” Town Council Member Dan Dwyer previously told The Herald. “It is completely fitting to tribute the park in her name. I didn’t know her, but I understood that she was special and touched a good number of people’s hearts.”