MONROE, La. (KNOE) – Members of the Ouachita Parish Police Jury received an update on the cost of the new animal shelter; It is expected to cost an estimated $4.5 million.

Judge Chairman Shane Smiley said one of the main factors for the cost increase was inflation.

“I think the primary source of cost growth is just economics,” Smiley said. “It’s a lot more expensive today than it was four years ago.”

As labor and material costs increase, an additional million dollars are needed for construction. But is it worth it?

The Ruston Animal Shelter in Lincoln Parish has undergone a facility renovation and has seen a dramatic increase in adoptions.

Before the update, the shelter averaged 50 adoptions per year. According to Animal Control Director Bill Sanderson, 274 animals were adopted after the update.

Watch the video to see how the upgrades are making a positive impact on the Ruston community.

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