CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON MASSIVE ADDITION TO RHEA COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
According to a report by Rhea County’s The Herald News, Construction is underway on a new 5,000-square-foot addition to the Rhea County Animal Shelter in Evensville, more than doubling the facility’s size after years of planning and community support.
The expansion will feature modern kennels, nurseries for stray mothers and litters, a quarantine wing to prevent disease, larger adoption areas, and a community education room, enabling the shelter to better serve thousands of vulnerable animals annually with enhanced space and enrichment.
The project was made possible by a transformative legacy gift from the late Betty Plummer, a passionate animal advocate whose generosity will benefit generations of pets by giving them second chances. Shelter director Cheyenne Swafford called the addition a “game-changer,” noting it will allow staff to provide greater care and comfort despite previous space constraints, thanks to Plummer and dedicated supporters.
Shawn Troutman of Troutman Property Solutions is overseeing the build as general contractor, donating most of his usual fees to advance the nonprofit’s mission.
