A $1.7 million renovation project at the Baldwin Park Animal Care Center broke ground Wednesday, marking the largest capital improvement investment in the nearly 70-year-old shelter’s history.
The Baldwin Park Animal Care Center, which opened in 1958, serves as a regional hub for animal services in the San Gabriel Valley. It provides pet adoptions, low-cost veterinary services and other resources to 12 unincorporated communities and several contract cities, including El Monte, Industry, Irwindale, Walnut and West Covina, according to the office of county Supervisor Hilda Solis.
Officials said the renovation will include outdoor shade structures, upgraded medical equipment, air-conditioned cat kennels, new fencing, facility-wide repainting and other improvements designed to modernize the shelter.
“I am proud to break ground on these long-overdue improvements, which will strengthen services for both animals and the families who depend on this facility,” Solis said in a statement. “Every animal deserves a safe, healthy environment while awaiting a permanent home, and every resident should have access to high-quality animal care services.”
Marcia Mayeda, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, said the upgrades will improve care for animals.
“This is a significant milestone for the care center, and we are grateful for Supervisor Solis’ leadership and commitment to animal welfare,” Mayeda said. “These improvements will enhance the care we provide and help ensure animals and residents continue receiving the services they need.”
The groundbreaking also featured a free pet resource fair and highlighted the shelter’s participation in the national Clear the Shelters campaign, which runs throughout August. During the campaign, adoption and licensing fees are being waived, and more than 100 families attending Wednesday’s event received free pet food, pet supplies and other resources.
Construction is expected to be completed in late fall.