SPRINGFIELD, Ga. – Dirt turned and shovels hit the ground Thursday as Effingham County Animal Shelter officials marked the start of a long-anticipated renovation and expansion project aimed at transforming animal care services in the community.
The $5,288,181 upgrade will modernize the existing facility at Effingham County Animal Shelter, expanding capacity and improving both operations and the experience for visitors and adopters.
County leaders said the project reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public services while creating a safer, more efficient and compassionate environment for animals. Construction is expected to take about a year.
Expanded capacity, upgraded care
Planned improvements include increasing kennel capacity from 54 to 84, adding new grooming rooms to support animal health and hygiene, and constructing dedicated laboratory space for expanded veterinary care. Visitor and adoption areas will also be upgraded to create a more welcoming setting, while site, parking, utility and infrastructure improvements are planned throughout the property.
The project is funded through Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) dollars.
Design work was completed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood, with McWright LLC serving as the project’s contractor.
Community support for long-awaited project
Local nonprofit Helping Out Pets in Effingham — which supports the shelter through funding for emergency medical care, vaccinations, spay/neuter programs and its Barn Cat Program — also praised the long-awaited project.
“This new shelter has been needed in Effingham County for over 20 years, and it will make a meaningful difference for both the animals and our community,” said Dena Stapleton, president of HOPE. “With expanded capacity, improved medical space, and a better overall layout, it will allow for more efficient care and adoptions — but most importantly, it will provide a clean, welcoming environment where families feel comfortable coming in and finding their next furry family member.”
Leadership transition
In addition to celebrating the groundbreaking, county commissioners and County Manager Tim Callahan recognized longtime shelter manager Lorna Shelton on her retirement after 16 years of service.
Shelton has been a central figure in the shelter’s operations, helping guide animal care and adoption efforts while building relationships across the community.
Operations manager Jessi Kicklighter and office manager Faith Williamson are expected to take over leadership of the shelter following Shelton’s retirement, ensuring continuity as the facility moves into its next phase.
Officials said the renovation represents both a look ahead and a continuation of the foundation built during Shelton’s tenure — one focused on improving outcomes for animals and strengthening connections with residents.
Construction is now underway, with county leaders expressing optimism that the upgraded facility will better meet the needs of Effingham County for years to come.
