City finalizes construction agreement for new Columbus Animal Care facility

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The City of Columbus on Tuesday, July 21, finalized a public‑private agreement to build the new Columbus Animal Care facility, a major milestone in the community’s efforts to improve animal welfare and modernize local shelter operations. 

The 21,000‑square‑foot building will be constructed by Force Construction on a site across the street from the current animal care building near the Columbus Municipal Airport. Groundbreaking is scheduled for Aug. 26, with completion anticipated in July 2027.    

Mark and Wendy Elwood have donated $1 million toward the project, matching a $1 million community capital campaign. Their contribution supports a facility designed to meet modern standards for animal care, public access, and long‑term operational reliability.   

Under the agreement approved Tuesday, the city and Force Construction set a guaranteed maximum project cost of $9.8 million. That total includes $8.6 million for construction and $1.2 million for furnishings, equipment, and other outfitting needs.   

The current 4,900‑square‑foot facility has faced longstanding maintenance issues, including electrical problems, moisture reduction challenges, and inadequate ventilation. Limited space has contributed to chronic overcrowding.    

Funding for the new building 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 generated through a community capital campaign

City officials say the upgraded space expands capacity, improves public services, and provides a safer, healthier environment for animals and staff.