The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, along with other parish and city officials, held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Calcasieu Parish Animal Services and Adoption Center at 5500-A Swift Plant Road in Lake Charles.

The bond-funded $19-million project includes the construction of three new kennel buildings – each 4,400-square-feet; a 2,800-square-foot feline building; a 13,500-square-foot-intake building; a 4,436-square foot enforcement building; as well as the renovation of the existing administration and adoption building.

In 2015, the Police Jury brought in a national consultant, Jackson and Ryan Architects, to work with Kudla Architects to design a solid, modern facility that could handle the parish’s existing and future needs. The project went through several redesigns. Officials were hoping to break ground in 2020, but the pandemic and 2020 hurricanes delayed the project even further.

“We are proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of our new Animal Services and Adoption Center, said Police Jury President Anthony Bartie. “This modern facility will not only enhance our commitment to animal care and adoptions but will also be built to withstand future severe weather events. I am especially proud of our project planners and developers for delivering an effective and fiscally responsible approach to this important project.”

“I am excited about this day finally becoming a reality,” said Nathan Areno, CPPJ’s Public Health Services Director. “I appreciate the efforts of everyone who made it happen.”

 The original facility, built in 1998, was damaged in Hurricane Rita and again in the 2020 hurricanes. The new buildings are being built to codes and standards which will make them extremely strong and resilient against future storms and disasters. 

 Work on the project will begin immediately and it is estimated to be completed by late summer 2026.