The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando broke ground on their planned, $14-million facility this week.
On Tuesday, city officials, staff and volunteers gathered to celebrate breaking ground at the new facility, which will be located on South John Young Parkway in Orlando.
The groundbreaking comes over a year after the organization’s former facility was destroyed by fire, killing multiple animals at the shelter.
On Tuesday, the group strayed from the traditional golden shovel ground breaking and instead had a group of puppies dig up sand as part of its ceremony for the 25,000 square-foot space.
“Pet Alliance is thrilled to celebrate this important milestone of the Almost Home Capital Campaign,” reads a statement issued by the organization through social media. “The next time you drive down John Young Parkway near I-4, keep a look out for our sign.”
Officials say the new space will feature a variety of enhancements and upgrades. That includes double the medical space available to the organization to care for injured animals, as well as a dedicated space for adoption services. Additionally, the facility will feature an air-conditioned shelter space for dogs and cats, and specialized housing for long-term dog residents.
The organization says that it has secured more than $10 million in funding for the project and that a builder has already been selected.
The group hopes to move into its new facility by 2025, according to officials.
To learn more about the organization or its initiatives, or to make a donation in support of their cause, visit the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando website.