BATON ROUGE, La. — Ascension Parish is moving closer to opening a long-awaited animal welfare center that promises to transform the way the parish cares for its animals and supports pet owners. Parish officials announced that the project has now entered the construction drawing phase—bringing the new facility one major step closer to reality.

The schematic design and design development phases are complete, and final construction drawings are expected within the next 60 days, according to the Ascension Parish Government. Once the designs are finalized, the project will be ready to move into active construction.

The upcoming center is part of a broader initiative to modernize animal services in the region and provide long-term benefits to both residents and their pets. The facility will not only offer expanded shelter capacity but also serve as a hub for public education, outreach, and adoption events.

“With the current design, our new Animal Welfare Center will provide shelter space for approximately 148 dogs and 164 cats,” said Parish President Clint Cointment. “This facility is being built two feet above the base flood elevation to help safeguard our animals during potentially severe weather events. It’s thoughtfully designed to serve the public, host community adoption events, and allow room for future expansion.”

The project reflects growing community support for animal welfare in Ascension Parish, where overcrowded shelters and limited resources have long been a concern. Local residents and advocacy groups have voiced their support for a more modern, humane approach to animal services.

In a recent statement, the parish government emphasized that the new facility will “address current needs and support education, engagement, and advocacy for animal welfare in Ascension Parish.”

Beyond housing animals, the center will offer educational programs aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership, reducing stray animal populations, and encouraging spaying and neutering. It is expected to become a cornerstone of the parish’s broader effort to improve the lives of animals and the people who care for them.

Once construction begins, residents can expect to see regular progress updates from parish officials, including new architectural renderings and milestone reports. The facility’s opening will mark a significant step forward in ensuring that Ascension Parish remains a safe, compassionate place for animals in need.

“This center is more than just a shelter—it’s a community resource,” Cointment added. “It’s a place where we can come together to protect animals, promote adoptions, and build a stronger foundation for animal welfare in our parish.”

Originally reported by Keymonte Avery in Louisiana First News.