Officials from the City of East Providence were joined by state and local leaders and members of the community on Saturday, July 25 to cut the ribbon on a series of renovations made to the East Providence Animal Shelter.

“Today marks another exciting example of how the City of East Providence continues to move forward as the best place to live, learn, work and play,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “This investment transforms our animal shelter into a safer and more welcoming facility for the animals in our care, our dedicated staff and for the families looking to adopt a new companion.”

The $476,746 in renovations were funded through a combination of $278,513 from the city’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, $149,218 from the city’s operating budget, and $49,016 from the city’s capital budget.

The renovations include:

• Two new astroturf play pens for dogs, with trees for natural shade.
• New exterior kennels and drainage system for rear half of building.
• New rubberized floor for the entire shelter interior.
• New interior drains for all kennels.
• New HVAC system.
• Replacement of air circulation fans.
• New epoxy floors for exterior kennels, ensuring easier sanitation.
• Replaced cabinetry, increasing available space for food, treats, medication and more.
• Replaced counter tops with durable, easy to sanitize phenolic resin.
• New dish washer, to allow for proper sanitation of food and water bowls without the use of harsher cleaners.
• New washer and dryer, removing the need for use of a laundry service, ensuring a constant supply of clean laundry.
• New storage shed, much larger than previously, for increased storage of carriers, nonperishable supplies, and maintenance equipment.
• New concrete storage room, with new freezers and shelving for perishable supply storage.
• Fully replaced ADA compliant restroom.
• New perimeter fence and fencing surrounding kennels/play areas.
• Replaced plumbing in kennel areas allowing for more efficient cleaning.
• Replacement of all doors.
• New trees and greenery around the parking lot perimeter, and along the dog play areas.

“These renovations have already made a tremendous difference in the way we care for the animals that come through our shelter,” said John Cinquegrana, East Providence Animal Control Supervisor. “These upgrades have provided safer, cleaner and a more functional environment for both our staff and the animals we care for, we are incredibly grateful for this investment.”

The East Providence Animal Control Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 62 Commercial Way.