St. Clair County is embarking on a significant project to construct a new Animal Control building, with projected total costs reaching $16 million upon completion. This initiative was catalyzed by the need to vacate the existing facility during severe flooding events that threatened the well-being of the animals housed there. The current building, located at 1250 S. 11th St., has been vulnerable to flooding due to its position in a low-lying area adjacent to a creek. To mitigate this issue, the new facility will be located approximately four miles northwest at 1123 Comwest Parkway in Belleville, conveniently positioned off Illinois Route 15.
The Public Building Commission, responsible for managing properties owned by the county, has provided approval for a resolution allowing it to issue bonds to finance a portion of the construction costs. Additionally, a substantial allocation of $4.3 million has been drawn from COVID-19 relief funds earmarked by the St. Clair County Board to support the project. As of now, the project has incurred expenditures totaling $1.9 million, which include costs for land acquisition, architectural, consulting, and engineering services, all of which are instrumental in the planning and design phases of the new facility.
The old Animal Control building, located in a flood-prone zone, experienced severe consequences during significant rainfall in July 2022, when floodwaters surged through its premises. Animals sheltered in the facility were observed standing in water up to their chests, highlighting the urgent need for a new, safer environment. The designs for the new building, rendered by Woolpert Architecture LLC, emphasize a structure capable of withstanding such adverse weather conditions while serving as a more accommodating space for the animals and staff.
Director of St. Clair County Buildings, Jim Brede, in conjunction with architectural advisor Bill Reichert, has articulated that the latest cost estimate of $16 million is influenced by a 36% rise in construction costs over the past three years. The planning process aims not only to rectify the vulnerabilities of the existing facility but also to enhance the quality and functionality of the new building. The proposed new structure will incorporate modern features such as a surgical suite, minimizing the need for frequent transportation of animals for medical care, and various wellness amenities aimed at reducing stress among the animals.
To foster a healthier and less stressful environment, the new design includes outdoor play areas for exercise as well as separate enclosures for cats, ensuring that interactions among the animals remain calm. In addition, the design features larger kennels arranged to prevent the animals from facing each other, heated flooring, and the inclusion of natural light throughout the facility. A unique aspect of the design is the use of piped-in music tailored for cats and dogs, all contributing to a soothing atmosphere for the animals under care.
As the Public Building Commission moves forward with the construction project, they are currently accepting bids from contractors and anticipate selecting a contractor by November 21, during an upcoming board meeting. The vision for the new St. Clair County Animal Control building, as depicted in multiple architectural renderings, signifies not only a commitment to animal welfare and safety but also a proactive approach to addressing previous operational shortcomings. The establishment of this new facility is a critical step toward ensuring a more reliable and humane environment for the animals of St. Clair County.
