The remodeling is completed and the Oneida County Humane Society is open for the public to see the upgraded building.
Expansion plans were announced two years ago when the organization received a couple of unexpected cash awards. Work began last spring. The project includes a larger lobby, wellness rooms and separate entrances for dogs and cats, among other changes. Work came in on budget, according to facility director Bria Swarthout.
She says another area is set up for adoption...
"..We also added a meet-and-greet area. So when families come to meet with their new adopted friend, there's a room they can visit and get to know the pet in. We didn't have that before. It's a good fit for what we do here...."
She says they also have a small animal room for critters like birds and guinea pigs.
Swarthout says the new facility is a great improvement...
"..It doubled our space at the facility. We have a bigger lobby and we're more energy efficient. It's wonderful..."
The expansion cost just under $600,000.
The building was originally constructed at its current location on north Stevens Street in 1983, and saw an addition begun in 2000. In addition to the upgrades for the animals will be a new energy-efficient heating and air conditioning unit.
Swarthout says the public is invited to drop by to check things out. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, noon to 3 p.m.
