Texas side plans animal shelter overhaul
TEXARKANA, Texas — In April, the city announced that renovation plans were being drafted for its animal holding facility.
The facility, at West Fourth and Oak Streets, is currently equipped with seven kennels for dogs picked up within city limits.
The plans, made in partnership with Shelter Plans of America, indicate expanding the amount of kennels to include space for 21 dogs and cats, and having quarantine quarters. The renovations for the outside of the building will include painting, extending walkways and repairing fences.
The architectural mock-up for the shelter includes adoption areas for dogs and cats, an area for puppies, a new medical area for cats, along with an exercise yard for dogs and an officer work area and customer service lobby.
The city has set aside $450,000 for the updates, anticipates more funding from private donors and will also be applying for grants.
In a Gazette report in December, city communications manager Brooke Stone said that there are no new updates on the animal holding facility.
“Our Animal Services Department is working to secure more funding and is looking forward to seeing this project completed,” Stone said.
The communications manager said construction would begin on the site once funding is secured and construction plans are finalized.
“Timeline for the project to finish will depend on multiple factors such as the construction company’s schedule, supply chain, etc.,” Stone said.
Director of Inspections and Code Enforcement Mashell Daniel previously said that she is excited to see efforts on the Animal Shelter move forward and that the animal services department is dedicated to seeing the project through.
“Discussions for these updates have been in the works for several months and will allow us to better serve our community and provide more resources,” Daniel said.