The City of Vicksburg on Friday announced a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place Thursday for the new animal shelter located at 65 Cedars Rd.

“We are so proud of what this new facility will offer,” Animal Control Supervisor Kaci Lindsey said. “The upgrades will allow us to provide the highest level of care for our animals and make it easier for families to adopt in a stress-free environment. We are especially grateful to the Friends of the (City of Vicksburg) Animal Shelter for their generous $50,000 donation, which made the improved cat cages possible. Their support has been invaluable.”

The new facility includes four cat rooms, three dog rooms, an intake and treatment room, improved cat cages, insulated dog doors and a private room for the public to meet animals, city officials explained.

“Just as we prioritize infrastructure and public safety, the care and welfare of our animals are equally vital,” Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs Jr. said. “This updated shelter will prove to be a source of community pride, demonstrating our commitment to humane values and caring for those who cannot care for themselves.”

The new shelter replaces an outdated facility that is more than 50 years old and sits on a tract of land on Old Mill Road that has been subject to frequent flooding issues. City officials said the new shelter’s final price tag came in at $1,935,073.21, including a $50,000 donation from the Friends of the City of Vicksburg Animal Shelter.

An additional $10,000 was recently donated to the shelter by Vicksburg resident Karen Kirk on behalf of her late mother, Barbara Crow Whiteman, to be used at the discretion of shelter personnel.

The City of Vicksburg has also announced Thursday’s ribbon cutting will feature the unveiling of artwork created by art students at Dana Road Elementary School.

“This facility isn’t just for the animals. It’s for the entire community,” Flaggs said. “A well-maintained animal shelter contributes to public health and safety by addressing issues related to stray animals and promoting responsible pet ownership.”

City officials said animals will not be present at the facility for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and guests will be allowed to tour the shelter. Animals are scheduled to begin arriving at the shelter Monday, Dec. 16.

The ribbon-cutting is scheduled to take place at 4 p.m.