New Animal Shelter Opens in Jacksonville

August 11, 2009 27 comments Open printer friendly version of this article Print Article

In addition to the enhanced services, the new 40,000 square-foot shelter will serve as the cornerstone of "green" building for the city's sustainability initiative. It is the first newly-constructed building built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) specifications.



About the New Shelter

The new shelter comes as a result of the City of Jacksonville’s commitment to providing humane treatment of animals and effectively managing its growing population.







The new facility offers a number of improvements over the previous shelter. These include a highly visible and accessible location, state of the art medical facility, a separate animal treatment area, additional surgical recovery space, and a designated open space for adoptable animals.





Building elements, including the roof, the use of natural light and automatic lights along with native plants used in the landscaping, were designed to maximize the use of energy and natural resources. The project’s contractor, Auld & White, is currently pursuing a LEED Gold Certification for the building’s energy efficient design.







The building’s "green" features also help promote good health for the animals in the shelter. For example, high efficiency mechanical systems and equipment help balance the facilities extensive use of fresh air. When coupled with the building’s humidity control, these systems help to encourage good overall health of the animals in the shelter.








Animal Care and Protective Services is located at 2020 Forest Street - 32204.


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Photos by Daniel Herbin