Plans are progressing for the establishment of new kennels to house dogs in Carbon County.

Bruce May, who has been the county’s K-9 officer for the past 20 years, said it is anticipated the new facility can be utilized by the end of the year.

The kennels are being constructed near the Carbon County Prison in Nesquehoning. Presently, they are open-air cages located next to the Lehighton Borough sewage treatment plant.

May said volunteers have helped move the construction of the kennels along, including having worked on the electrical and plumbing needs of the building.

He said prisoners at the jail have also helped with the work, and will be counted on to help with dog pound duties after the facility is up and running.