In another state where regional projects are the norm, the proposed regional animal shelter would already be operating in Montville on the property of the Corrigan-Radgowski Correctional Facility. But in Connecticut, with its long tradition of every town doing its own thing and paying all the associated costs, it takes a while to get such a project from concept to reality.

This proposal makes a lot of sense.

East Lyme, Montville and Waterford need new shelters. Rather than each incurring the cost of constructing a shelter and the administrative costs associated with operating one, a single shelter can meet their needs with significant savings.

A shelter could also meet the needs of abandoned pets in search of a home, while giving inmates the emotionally uplifting experience of caring for and bonding with these animals. It would dovetail nicely with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s "Second Chance" initiative to better prepare inmates for returning to our communities after they have served their penalties. Having low-risk inmates working with the animals means those pets will get more attention than the typical town shelter, where time and spending limits often mean basic care.

The regional animal shelter would still be in need of and supply an outlet for the community volunteers dedicated to providing care to the animals and giving them extras such as playtime, runs and walks.

Now comes word of a state program, intended to encourage regional cooperation, which could fund up to half the construction costs. There is not yet a construction estimate for the project. It would be built on correctional center property, with the towns paying for construction costs and leasing the land on which it is constructed.

We remain somewhat mystified that such a good idea has generated opposition.

Critics have expressed concern over longer drives from other towns. The region is just not that big to make that much of a concern.

Also repeated are concerns about the shelter being near the prison. In reality, the warden and other prison officials would be selective in the inmates they allow to work in the facility and town officials would demand safeguards to protect the safety of the public.

A regional shelter on the correctional facility property is a great idea. If built, we are confident that in time even the naysayers will come to see the decision as the right one. After years of discussion, it is time to move this project further toward reality.