Rochester invests $2.6M in upgrades to Animal Services facility
- Staff Report
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The City of Rochester has invested more than $2.6 million in improvements to Rochester Animal Services, Mayor Malik D. Evans announced Monday.
The capital investments—some already completed, others in progress or planned—aim to enhance the facility’s infrastructure, animal care, and community outreach efforts.
Completed upgrades include the addition of a new community outreach vehicle and two animal transport vans, exterior lighting enhancements, a security system upgrade, and 15 two-way radios for staff communication. The facility also received a new animal bathing tub, steam sterilizer, and cabinetry for the clinic, along with improved access to surgical rooms and new medical equipment.
Additional completed improvements include privacy shades and fresh paint in the lobby, a commercial-grade dishwasher, new laundry appliances, and updated office furniture and carpeting. New countertops for the lobby are expected soon.
Ongoing projects include window sill rehabilitation, a new reception desk, HVAC system maintenance to improve airflow, and a redesign of the in-floor drainage in dog kennels to replace aging trough systems.
Planned investments will focus on upgraded dog kennels, plumbing improvements in animal care areas, and the construction of a new dog park on the city’s west side.
“This investment is about more than just infrastructure—it’s about giving our city’s animals the care they deserve and ensuring a better experience for both staff and community members,” Evans said.
Rochester Animal Services, located at 184 Verona St., is open for adoptions from noon to 4 p.m. daily. The facility partners with the Verona Street Animal Society (VSAS), a nonprofit that supports RAS through volunteer coordination and fundraising.
Volunteer roles include animal care, fostering, community outreach, and administrative support. Volunteers must be 18 or older and can apply at www.VSAS.org/volunteer.
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