PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (WMDJ) – Groundbreaking was held Thursday for the new Floyd County Animal Shelter facility.

Named in honor of Dr. Chandra and Mahendra Varia, the new shelter will allow the housing of twice as many animals and continue their status as a no-kill shelter.

The estimated cost of the new facility is $1,000,000 with more than $400,000 already raised for the project.

Ned Pillersdorf, a longtime advocate for the shelter, thanked Floyd County Judge Executive Robbie Williams and the many volunteers who have helped make the dream of a new shelter a reality.

The new shelter will be located across from the current shelter in West Prestonsburg. Donations for the new facility are still being accepted.