City breaks ground on new Columbus Animal Care Services facility

COLUMBUS, Ind. - Columbus Animal Care Services (CACS) broke ground Wednesday, August 26, on its new shelter, the Wendy H. Elwood Animal Care Services Center, marking a major milestone in the city’s effort to expand and modernize local animal care.   

The 21,000‐square‐foot facility will be built across the street from the current shelter near the Columbus Municipal Airport. Force Construction has begun site preparation, and the project is expected to be completed in July 2027.    

During the ceremony, Columbus Mayor Mary Ferdon thanked project partners and supporters, saying, “We’re excited to celebrate the groundbreaking for the Wendy H. Elwood Animal Care Service Center. This is a gift to our city, beginning with the incredible generosity of Mark and Wendy Elwood.” 

Ferdon also recognized Columbus Animal Care Services Director Nichol Birdwell Goodin, noting that “Nichol’s commitment to this shelter and the well-being of animals has been a critical reason we’ve gotten to this place.”   

Mark and Wendy Elwood donated $1 million toward the project, matching a $1 million community capital campaign.

The project has a guaranteed maximum price of $9.8 million, including $8.6 million for construction and $1.2 million for furnishings, equipment, and other outfitting needs. It will replace the current 4,900-square-foot building, which has long faced electrical problems, moisture reduction challenges, and inadequate ventilation.

Funding for the project includes:    

• $5 million from the city’s general fund   
• $1.7 million in READI (Regional Economic Development Acceleration and Development Initiative) funds   
• $1 million from Mark and Wendy Elwood   
• $1 million from a community capital campaign     

City officials say the upgraded space will increase capacity, improve public services, and create a safer, healthier environment for animals and staff.