Officials with the City of East Ridge invite the public to the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the City’s new animal shelter.  The ceremony will be held at 5302 Stone Street on Tuesday, December 5.  The program is scheduled to begin at 1:30 pm. 

Jennifer Massengale, East Ridge Animal Services Supervisor, believes the new facility, which is anticipated to open next summer, will be more welcoming and comforting to their four-legged friends in need.  

“I hope that the citizens of East Ridge will be as proud of our new shelter as I am,” said Massengale. “On behalf of the East Ridge Animal Services staff, we are honored to have the opportunity to witness the groundbreaking of a long-awaited facility to care for the animals of East Ridge.”

MBI Architects worked with the city staff to design the future 4,850 square-foot building that is estimated to cost $3 million.  The long-awaited shelter will house 30 dog kennels with outside runs and drains for ease of cleaning.  Walls and floors of the shelter will have a polymer coating that can withstand pressure washing.  A self-watering feature will be placed in each kennel. 

“I am excited about the groundbreaking for the construction of our new Animal Shelter,” said East Ridge Mayor Brian Williams.  “East Ridge Animal Services has been a beacon of hope for countless animals in need, providing them with love, care, and a chance for a new beginning. 

“They work tirelessly towards their mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals to ensure they find forever homes,” Williams continued. “This new shelter will be much larger and with more capabilities in providing excellent services to our four-legged friends and will continue to be a vital part of our community.”