OCALA, FL (352today.com) -The Marion County Animal Shelter had its groundbreaking on October 30, near S.R. 40. Many local leaders and project participants attended the ceremony.
Construction of the 20-acre facility, built by Scorpio Construction on land donated by the Roberts family, will begin in November with completion set for December 2025. The project required collaboration between Marion County and Ocala city governments for zoning approval.
The new $22 million Marion County Animal Shelter will span 37,361 square feet, including 18,036 square feet of kennel space, a significant upgrade from its current two-acre location.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to be gathered here today to celebrate a transformative moment in our community for the groundbreaking for our new animal shelter,” said Kyra Lynch, Marion County animal services director. “Today, we’re taking a significant step, a leap forward in addressing the need for improved animal welfare in our area. Our existing shelter has done absolutely incredible work, but it’s clear that we need a facility that’s designed for the future.”
The new facility will feature modern design elements to help staff provide more efficient and effective care for animals, Lynch said.
“We specifically designed spaces for various functions,” explained Lynch. “We will minimize bottle necks and ensure every animal receives timely care specific to that individual. At the heart of our mission lies a profound responsibility to the animals that are placed in our care. Each and every one of them deserves a safe environment where they can feel secure and cared for.”
Lynch shared that the new shelter includes dedicated spaces for socialization and enrichment, which are critical for the animals’ emotional and psychological health.
“These animals do not choose to be in our care at our shelter. It’s our responsibility to ensure that their time with us is as low stress as possible, by creating areas that are designed to foster interaction, between people and animals, and we will enhance their comfort and readiness for adoption more effectively,” said Lynch.
The new animal shelter will feature a surgery center, recovery area and a huge outdoor space, and will play a large role in transforming lives.
The facility is designed to accommodate the rapidly expanding community, ensuring Marion County will be able to adapt the evolving needs of both the animals being served and the people who are caring for them.
“On behalf of the entire county commission, I’d like to especially extend our gratitude to those whose donations who’ve made today a reality,” said Kathy Bryant, Marion County Commission vice chair. “I can’t tell you how happy I am to see this day come, as I’m sure you are too.”
Bryant added that the groundbreaking marks a milestone as construction is started on a special project that the entire community helped make possible