Work on the new Staunton Augusta Waynesboro Animal Shelter at the former elementary school in Verona began in July and is “progressing well.”
SAWAS is the new name for the Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center, currently located in Lyndhurst.
The project completion is planned for May 2025, according to Candy Hensley, assistant county administrator.
The project also remains in budget at $6,376,413, Hensley said.
A contract with Harman Construction was approved by the Board of Supervisors on June 26. The contract specified that construction would not exceed $5.5 million. However, the total cost of the project was estimated at $6.3 million and included a contingency budget, measures to provide safety and security, asbestos mitigation and moving expenses.
The localities had originally estimated the cost of the work at $3 million. However, the bids for the project came in much higher.
Hensley said the following work is under way and/or completed:
- All asbestos was abated
- Demolition is complete
- Concrete has been cut in the floors to allow for utilities
- Plumbing installation is taking place
- Duct work is being manufactured and installed
- Framing has begun along with electrical rough-in
Augusta County will share funding of the center with Staunton and Waynesboro based on average usage in the last four years.
The square footage of the shelter is expected to increase from 5,000 to 39,000 square feet. The new shelter will include a separate building for dogs and cats, a livestock holding area, fencing and security cameras, ADA-compliant accessibility and lighting, expansive play yards for dogs, a roam room for cats, a welcoming lobby and visitation areas for adopters.
Construction was originally scheduled to be completed by the fall of this year.
To follow the project online, visit https://augustacountyva.civilspace.io/en/projects/saw-animal-shelter-project-in-verona
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Crystal Graham
