Photo by Kate MorrisThe Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is making way on a potential expansion.
Williamson County commissioners approved a contract with Houston-based Jackson and Ryan Architects Inc. to develop a design schematic for shelter improvements.
Were not just talking about expansion but looking at the building that wehave to see what we can do more immediately to get better usage of the facility, said Commissioner Valerie Covey, who is also a member of the WCRAS board.
Jackson and Ryan Architects was awarded the contract during the Aug. 12 Commissioners Court meeting. The search for a qualified firm began in July, and Covey said the shelters board has started the process of developing an agreement with the firm.
Jackson and Ryan Architects also designed the Austin Animal Center at 7201 Levander Loop, which opened in November 2011.
The design will be funded with $50,000that had previously been budgeted for a new air conditioner at the shelter, Covey said.
The four partner citiesLeander, Cedar Park, Hutto and Round Rockthat contribute to Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter's operating budget, will also contribute a percentage to help fund the cost, she said.
