Downtown DeKalb opened its arms and doors to NIU last week with the opening of the Downtown Dog Pound.

The Downtown Dog Pound store, which is open for a trial period of 10 days to gauge interest level, sits on the corner of East Lincoln Highway and Third Street in a building space near local realtors.

Dubbed the first “communiversity” project, the store sells everything NIU from football tickets to volleyball programs to Turner the Burner Hot Sauce.

NIU Athletics Director Cary Groth was on hand at the ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday, along with NIU President John Peters, DeKalb Mayor Greg Sparrow and other community members.

Sparrow sported NIU colors and Huskie Spirit, showing up wearing NIU gear.

“I am ashamed to say it took this long to get this going,” Sparrow said about the project, which he said was 19 years in the making.

Groth said that it is a great partnership between NIU and DeKalb and was glad to celebrate that partnership with the opening of the store.

“We are excited to bring Huskie Spirit to downtown DeKalb,” Groth said.

Peters echoed her remarks and enthusiasm.

“What a great time to be in DeKalb,” Peters said, adding a crowd-pleasing shout, “It’s football time.”