WHAT'S GOING UP
For the May 2024 What's Going Up edition, we focus on expansion projects around DeSoto County. A popular local veterinarian office plans to relocate and expand and a longtime church broke ground in April for a new expansion project.
*For previous editions of 'What's Going Up,' see below.
Animal Ark of Arcadia
*Source: Photos by Daniel Sutphin and Courtesy of Animal Ark of Arcadia
If you didn't see the sign at the new Animal Ark of Arcadia currently in development, that's What's Going Up at the corner of E. Cypress Street and US 17 N (DeSoto Avenue).
Presently located at 109 S. DeSoto Ave. (US 17 N.), Dr. Adam Sorrells is in the process of building a new and expanded facility for his veterinarian office at 162 N. DeSoto Ave, Arcadia.
"We’ve been working on it all year," Sorrells said. "We started building in January and our goal is to be done in September or October of 2024, so early fall.
"Right now, we have most of the rough end done -- the roof is on, the doors and windows went in. Air conditioning is done. Electric can be done in the next few weeks. Once that is done and we get signed off, we can get started doing more of the finishing work; it’s moving along really well."
Animal Ark has outgrown its current space. At its current location, the building is approximately 2,000 sq. feet. The new building will provide around 7,000 sq. feet.
"We are limited in what we can offer," he said, adding the new facility has more space so they can provide more services to DeSoto pet owners.
"There will be more options for boarding. Down the road, and with the right staff, we will be able to offer overnights and emergency work, and that is something that we will build toward," Sorrells said. "We’re looking, with the more space that we have, to potentially offer rooming, bathing and things like that for pets. His office is currently reaching out to other specialty services for animals, such as veterinary chiropractors, acupuncturists, cardiologists and orthopedic surgeons that could work out of the new facility."
If you have a pet in need, or want more information, go to Animal Ark of Arcadia (AnimalArkofArcadia.com) or call (863) 494–2101.
Calvary Baptist Church
*Source: Photos by Daniel Sutphin and Courtesy of Calvary Baptist Church
Calvary Baptist Church (Yes, the one behind Wawa) broke ground on April 14 for an exciting new expansion project on its campus at 48 N. 15th Ave, Arcadia.
The church is constructing a new entrance area that will face Turner Avenue, according to an April 23 Facebook post.
A new parking lot was also recently completed on the north side of the church campus.
The new project includes additional parking on the east side with new fellowship areas on the inside to provide better spaces for gathering together.
Plans also call for a relocated nursery area to keep families and their children closer together during worship, as well as a new kitchen to be constructed.
Repairs and updates are also in the works for the current sanctuary.
The expansion is part of the church's two-year initiative called "Completely Committed," which will fund the church's operating expenses and the new construction.
For more information about the church and their services, call 863-494-4345, go to cbcarcadia.org, or find them on Facebook at Facebook.com/cbcarcadia.
WHAT'S GOING ON
Time to Celebrate Economic Development Week
Economic Development Week is right around the corner!
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) created Economic Development Week in 2016 to recognize the work that economic
development organizations and professionals do in their communities.
This year's week runs from May 6-10.
IEDC celebrates Economic Development Week each year to highlight the programs, best practices and exceptional individuals that positively impact life in their communities.
Each year, DeSoto County Commissioners pass a proclamation to honor the week at the local level.
IEDC lists this year’s theme as Economic Development Heroes, spotlighting economic developers who are pioneers in their communities.
DeSoto County actively works to attract and retain high-quality jobs, develop vibrant neighborhoods, and improve the quality of life here.
Businesses, individuals, municipalities, educational institutions, and not-for-profits all play a role in economic development.
For more information about Economic Development Week, go to www.IEDCOnline.org/EDW, or go to TeamDeSoto.com to find out about Economic Development in DeSoto County.
Share your ideas at the DeSoto County Community Open House
DeSoto County, its Economic Development Office and the Central Florida Regional Planning Council invite the public to attend an open house to discuss key issues and potential economic development opportunities.
Input will be used to help shape the future of DeSoto County through the creation of an economic development strategy.
Topic: Community Open House to discuss the future of DeSoto County
When: Thursday, May 9, 2024, 2 pm to 7 pm
The public is invited to stop by anytime between 2 pm and 7pm
Where: DeSoto County Administration Building, 201 East Oak Street, Arcadia, FL 34266
If you have any questions, please contact Sondra Guffey at s.guffey@desotobocc.com or 863.993.4807 or Beneshea Frazier at bfrazier@cfrpc.org or (863) 534-7130 extension 141.
WHAT'S GOING UP past editions...
What’s Going Up April 2023 | Team DeSoto
What’s Going Up May 2023 | Team DeSoto
What’s Going Up June 2023 | Team DeSoto
What’s Going Up July 2023 | Team DeSoto