Orange County is stepping up its game in the animal welfare arena, with commissioners voting unanimously to greenlight the construction of what's expected to be Florida's largest animal shelter. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings highlighted the enormity of the project, indicating the facility's provision for about 265 dogs and 200 cats. In a statement detailed by ClickOrlando, Demings said, "It is expected to be the largest animal shelter in Florida at 123,000 square feet, and with housing for approximately 265 dogs and 200 cats."
The contract, worth $49 million, has been awarded to The Collage Companies, with the sprawling new shelter set to be fully operational by the summer of 2027. Featuring an air-conditioned environment stretched over two floors, segregating dogs and cats, the design aims at providing a healthy and stress-free environment not just for the animals, but also for the staff and visitors. Diane Summers, manager for Orange County Animal Services, told WFTV, "We’re most proud of the improved experience for our shelter pets, with air-conditioning, more space, and a healthier and more comfortable environment."
After the selection of The Collage Companies, Bacon Group, Inc., Architecture was awarded the project's design contract in March 2022. Staff from OCAS closely collaborated with the design team throughout the planning phase, ensuring a layout optimized for animal care, which includes elements from the Fear Free Shelters concept to mitigate disease spread and bolster animal well-being. This has set the stage for a facility poised as a bastion for communal values, compassion, and quality care, articulating Mayor Demings' statement of Orange County's investment in a future where "animals, staff, and residents will thrive," as reported by WFTV.
