Oklahoma City's City Council has approved the final plans for a new animal shelter as part of the MAPS 4 project. The new facility will be 69,602 square feet and is expected to cost $42 million. It will be located at the north edge of the current property, improving the city’s ability to care for and shelter animals, according to the City of Oklahoma.
The new animal shelter, funded by a temporary penny sales tax expected to generate $1.07 billion over eight years, aims to address the growing need for facilities to care for homeless animals. It will feature nearly 550 dog kennels and over 300 cat condos, significantly increasing capacity. The design includes four separate entrances for adoption, intake, training, and clinic services to optimize flow and ensure safety. As Jon Gary, the Animal Welfare Division Superintendent, stated, "This facility will improve our ability to shelter and care for animals in our community and ultimately help more animals find their forever homes," as reported by the City of Oklahoma.
"The new shelter is designed to improve animal welfare and provide a better experience for animals, visitors and staff," explained MAPS Program Manager David Todd. The facility will feature a second-floor space for administrative offices, outdoor play areas with artificial turf, and spaces for exercise, socialization, training, and educational events. The shelter will be built in two phases, starting with the main building, followed by a 2,800-square-foot barn, additional parking, and the demolition of the old shelter. The project, led by HSE Architects and Connolly Architects, is expected to begin construction in early 2025, as stated by the City of Oklahoma.
