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Finalized MAPS 4 Animal Shelter Plans: When Construction Begins

2024-11-27

The Oklahoma City Council has taken a significant step forward in providing better care for animals and residents. Through the MAPS 4 program, final plans and specifications for a brand new and modernized animal shelter have been approved. This 69,602-square-foot facility is set to replace the outdated 47,000-square-foot shelter, offering enhanced services and expanded capacity.

Enhanced Services and Expanded Capacity

The voter-approved MAPS 4 program allocated $42 million towards the construction of this new building. It will be constructed on the north edge of the current site at 2811 SE 29, between S Bryant Avenue and E Grand Boulevard. Animal Welfare Division Superintendent Jon Gary emphasizes that the increased square footage will benefit the animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors. When the current shelter opened in 2001, it lacked adequate training space for field service officers and sufficient kennel space. This led to overcrowding and the need for euthanasia. However, with the new facility, these issues are expected to be addressed.The shelter's live-release rate has significantly improved over the years, hovering around 80% since 2017 compared to just 10% 25 years ago. But staff believe a new facility will further help with overcrowding, understaffing, and sanitation.

Improved Layout and Design

The layout of the new shelter has been carefully designed to enhance safety, flow, and hygiene. It features four separate entrances for adoption, intake, training, and clinic services. The number of dog kennels will more than double to nearly 550, and the number of cat condos will increase to over 300. Separate cat and dog kennel wings promote quieter spaces with less stress. The kennels are positioned to prevent animals from directly facing each other, reducing stress. Each kennel has a window to allow natural light, and durable, low-maintenance materials will be used throughout the facility.There are also outdoor play yards covered with artificial turf, a large training room, meeting spaces for sessions and events, and a second floor for administrative offices. This ensures that the new shelter is not only a great place for the animals but also for the people who work and visit there.

Construction Timeline and Future

Construction of the shelter, designed by HSE Architects and Connolly Architects, is set to begin in early 2025 and be completed in January 2027. The first phase will include the main shelter building and its parking. The second phase will add a 2,800-square-foot barn, a dedicated pasture, more parking, and the demolition of the current facility once shelter operations relocate.Just a few months ago, one of the upcoming facility's most prominent advocates, Louisa McCune, passed away. She was a key figure in ensuring the necessary funding for the new shelter. Additionally, the division superintendent, Jon Gary, who has worked with the city's animal welfare for 25 years, recently announced his retirement. Brock Rowe will oversee the shelter's operations until a new superintendent is appointed. Rowe is excited about the future of the Animal Welfare Division and believes the new shelter will "set a new standard for compassion and care" in Oklahoma City.

"Home for the Holidays" Program

OKC Animal Welfare is inviting residents to participate in its "Home for the Holidays" program. People 18 years and older can "flash foster" an adoptable dog from the current shelter for up to two weeks. After that, they can either return the dog or begin the adoption process. All participating dogs are microchipped, spayed or neutered, and up to date on vaccinations. This program provides temporary homes for dogs and helps them connect with potential adopters.In conclusion, the modernization of the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter is a significant step forward in providing better care for animals and residents. With its improved layout, enhanced services, and upcoming construction, the new shelter is set to transform the way animals are cared for in Oklahoma City.

The City of Norfolk has made an important announcement regarding a significant construction project on the Shore Drive Bridge in East Ocean View. This major rehabilitation effort is set to commence on Monday and is anticipated to be completed by May 2025. During this time, which includes weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekend work as needed, there will be single-lane and alternating lane closures to ensure the safety and progress of the construction.

Why the Project is Crucial

The project is being carried out to address key structural updates and guarantee the long-term durability of one of the city's essential transportation routes. The main tasks involve replacing chipped concrete on the bridge structure and roadway, applying new lane striping and pavement marking, and waterproofing the concrete. These measures are essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the bridge.

By taking these steps, the city aims to provide a safe and reliable transportation link for its residents and commuters. The Shore Drive Bridge plays a vital role in the local transportation network, and this rehabilitation project is a necessary investment in its future.

Motorists are advised to plan their routes in advance to avoid potential delays caused by the construction. The city is working diligently to minimize disruptions and complete the project as efficiently as possible.

Construction Details and Impact

During the construction period, single-lane and alternating lane closures will be implemented. This may cause some inconvenience for motorists, but it is a necessary measure to ensure the safety of the workers and the progress of the project. The city is closely monitoring the traffic flow and will make adjustments as needed to minimize the impact on commuters.

Despite the temporary closures, the city is committed to keeping traffic moving as smoothly as possible. Signs and detour routes will be provided to guide motorists through the construction area. It is important for drivers to follow the posted signs and instructions to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

The construction team is using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure the highest quality of work. They are working around the clock to complete the project as quickly as possible while maintaining strict safety standards.

Benefits of the Rehabilitation

Once the construction is completed, the Shore Drive Bridge will offer several benefits. The improved structural integrity will enhance the safety of the bridge, reducing the risk of accidents and structural failures. The new lane striping and pavement marking will improve visibility and traffic flow, reducing congestion and travel times.

The waterproofing of the concrete will protect the bridge from moisture and other environmental factors, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs in the long run. These improvements will not only benefit the commuters but also contribute to the overall economic development of the city.

The City of Norfolk is dedicated to providing its residents with a high-quality transportation system, and this rehabilitation project is a significant step towards that goal. By investing in the maintenance and improvement of its infrastructure, the city is ensuring a sustainable future for its community.

In Huntsville, Alabama, drivers on North Memorial Parkway have been enduring a long wait as construction on the new overpasses continues. The sight of orange traffic cones, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and brake lights has been a common sight for over a year along one stretch of this important roadway. This massive $34 million project began in June 2023, with the first phase successfully shifting drivers into the inside lane. Now, the next step is to move all traffic onto the service roads, directly affecting Matt Morris' business.

Impact on Local Businesses

Carpet One, owned by Matt Morris, has been a part of the community for an impressive 50 years. It predates the existing overpass. Morris has witnessed firsthand how the construction has not only increased traffic but also had a significant impact on local businesses. "We're used to stacked up traffic and stop-and-go situations," he said. He hopes that the new overpass will bring relief and not follow the same fate as other businesses that have changed ownership three or four times due to the construction. "When the overpass is finally completed, I believe it will make things better. Being in the flat part of the valley near this overpass, it will be easier for customers to reach us," Morris added.

Challenges During Construction

The prolonged construction period has presented numerous challenges for both drivers and local businesses. The constant traffic congestion has led to frustration and delays for commuters. For businesses like Carpet One, it has affected their daily operations and customer flow. Morris shared his experiences during this time, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding. "It's been a tough journey, but we're holding on and looking forward to the end of the construction," he said. The construction team has been working diligently to ensure the safety of both drivers and workers, but the impact on the local community has been undeniable.

Benefits of the New Overpass

Despite the current difficulties, there is hope on the horizon. Once the new overpass is completed in 2026, it is expected to bring significant benefits to the area. The improved traffic flow will not only make commuting easier for drivers but also have a positive impact on local businesses. Morris believes that the new overpass will attract more customers to the area, revitalizing the local economy. "It's an investment in our community, and we're all excited to see the positive changes it will bring," he said. The completion of this project will mark a major milestone for Huntsville and its residents.