Dozens of animal lovers, including Sandoval County officials and U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, braved the cold Thursday morning to break ground on a long-awaited Animal Resource Center near Interstate 25 and Highway 550 in Bernalillo that will replace an overcrowded temporary shelter that has operated with just 21 kennels for years.
The new facility, valued at $8.7 million, is expected to open in early 2027 and will be able to house 50 to 60 dogs and 12 to 20 cats at a time, along with kennels, offices, play space and a dog park for Sandoval County residents and visitors.
“We are creating a brighter, more humane future for all,” Commissioner Katherine Bruch said at the ceremony…