New York Construction Report staff writer
The City of Buffalo has selected a former police precinct at 294 Louisiana St. as the site for a new permanent animal shelter, with more than $30 million in proposed capital funding earmarked for renovations and expansion.
The city-owned property in the Old First Ward will be converted into a modern facility nearly five times the size of the existing shelter at 380 Oak St.
The selection followed an evaluation of potential sites, property tours and consultations with shelter staff and volunteers. The Louisiana Street location was chosen for its existing building layout, room for expansion, outdoor space and access to downtown Buffalo and the Thruway.
Preliminary estimates indicate the new shelter could accommodate 80 to 100 dogs and 90 to 130 cats, compared with the current facility’s listed capacity of 66 dogs and 59 cats.
The former police precinct has an open floor plan, glazed block walls and basement space that could accommodate new plumbing, electrical and heating systems. The property also has room for building expansion to meet New York state requirements for animal housing, including proper kennel drainage and ventilation.
Proximity to Father Conway Park will provide additional opportunities for outdoor activity.
Mayor Sean Ryan said the city wanted to identify the right location before proceeding with the project, while continuing to improve conditions at the existing shelter.
The architectural and engineering process will incorporate input from animal care experts, shelter staff, volunteers, prospective adopters and rescue organizations.
Public Works Commissioner Nolan Skipper said the city has begun conceptual designs and cost estimates and plans to hire a firm to undertake detailed design work.
The proposed schedule calls for planning in 2027, design work in 2027 and 2028, and construction in 2028 and 2029. The project is subject to approval of the city’s capital budget by the Common Council.
The city will continue upgrading the existing shelter while plans for the new facility move forward.
In June, the Ryan administration announced more than $412,000 in grant funding for improvements at the Oak Street shelter. The work includes expanded kennel space, a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, flooring, sound-dampening ceiling tiles, new cat kennels and an outdoor recreation area.
