Berea Animal Shelter Building New Facility In Columbia Station

COLUMBIA STATION, OH — The Berea Animal Rescue Friends (Berea ARF) will start construction on a new shelter in Columbia Station on July 11.

The Columbia Station facility is nestled on 16 acres of property at 10015 East River Road. Work on phase one of the shelter should be completed before 2019 is over. Opportunities for expansion at the shelter will depend on future fundraising.

“We couldn’t be more excited to finally see our vision become a reality,” said Berea ARF Board President Paige Platten. “This project has been years in the making and is the result of incredible support from our volunteers, adopters and donors. The new shelter will allow us to save more animals’ lives, provide enhanced care and create an overall improved adopter experience.”

The journey to the July 11 groundbreaking started in 2012 when the ARF purchased property in Columbia Station. The project accelerated three years ago. Berea ARF launched a capital campaign to raise funds for a new shelter facility in 2016. The organization wanted a facility that feature separate HVAC systems to isolate air circulation and decrease airborne diseases, designated animal intake areas, two free-roam cat areas and a screened porch, as well as large outdoor pens for dogs and get-acquainted rooms for prospective adopters. All of those features will be included with the Columbia Station shelter.

Berea ARF has been working out of a 1,500 square foot building in Berea for the past 15 years. There is also a converted construction trailer on the property, provided by the city of Berea. However, the growth of the ARF over the past decade necessitated the organization increase its footprint and build a larger facility.

“In addition to continuing our relationship with the City of Berea, we also hope to work with other neighboring communities to help them manage their stray and homeless animals,” Platten noted.

Berea ARF is a no-time-limit shelter and has been in operation since 1987. The group places about 1,000 animals into adoptive homes annually.

“The new facility isn’t just about getting bigger; it’s about enabling our organization to continue to expand our very worthwhile mission,” Platten said. “ARF has always adhered to a high set of standards when it comes to animal care and placement, and I believe the enthusiastic support this project has received validates that our supporters understand and appreciate the sincerity of our efforts and the dedication of our volunteers and staff.”