As the Fire and Police Memorial Park enters its third year as a tribute to the sacrifices of Sept. 11, potential additions include a statue dedicated to police dogs and informational kiosks for each of the exhibits.

On Thursday evening, seven years after the terrorist attacks in New York City, a small ceremony will be held to mark the occasion and dedicate 14 new plaques to honor past Rome police officers and firefighters, according to Deputy Fire Chief Mark S. Kohlbrenner.

The ceremony will start at 6:30 p.m., and will feature a prayer by the Rev. Arthur Miner, firefighters’ chaplain; the tolling of the park bell; a bagpipe lament and nameplate dedication.

The Air Force JROTC Color Guard from Rome Free Academy will assist with the flag display.

The pocket park across at East Liberty Street and Black River Boulevard blossomed from a mere bench and flagpole in 2006 to feature several historical exhibits, including two pieces of steel from the World Trade Center, as well as the two tower-themed glass brick fountain.

"I know quite often, when you look out, there are people out there," Kohlbrenner said from t Central Fire Station across the boulevard. "It’s very busy. A lot more than we ever imagined. There are always people over there, sitting on the benches. And, amazingly, we’ve had very little vandalism. That always surprises me."

Kohlbrenner said there is a list of improvements planned for the park, including a wrought-iron gate around the front, new flagpoles, a new security system and new informational kiosks. The current plaque that describes the park is unreadable due to rain damage.

Donations are also being collected to erect a dog statue dedicated to former police K-9s.