By: Emma Grace Beard and Catherine Spicer

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) —

Fayetteville is moving forward with plans for a new animal services center better designed to meet the needs of animals and the staff caring for them. 

The City Council approved a $690,000 property purchase this past week. However, planning for the new shelter started about two years ago after a city needs assessment. 

The building includes updated heating ventilation, air conditioning systems and improved drainage.

Justine Lentz, Fayetteville Animal Services Superintendent said the new building will better support shelter operations  

“Our current building, parts of it, are up to 50 years old, and it has served us really well for a really long time, but it is reaching the end of its life,” Lentz said.  

The new center is designed to improve animal’s health and comfort while they are in the city’s care with more space for medical treatment and isolation that will help staff address animal’s individual needs and limit disease spread.

Community members will also be able to get involved with more space for educational events and areas for potential adopters to be able to spend time with animals before brining them home.  

Funds for the center will come from bonds Fayetteville voters approved in March with a estimated cost of $18 million. 

The selected property is on E. 15th St. across from Walker Park and will take place at the building on Armstrong Rd.. It will also give volunteers convenient access to Walker Park’s trails when walking dogs.