Brevard County officials broke ground on a new $10 million animal shelter near the intersection of Saturn Avenue and New Haven Drive in Cocoa on Tuesday. The facility will replace the county’s current shelter, which has struggled with overcrowding and limited resources since opening in 1998. County Commissioner Randy Johnson said the project is part of a broader effort to improve animal welfare services across the Space Coast.
The new shelter will cover 80,000 square feet and include adoption centers, medical treatment areas, and space for 400 animals. Current operations at the existing facility handle an average of 2,500 animals annually, but officials say the new site will double capacity. The project is funded through a mix of county bonds, private donations, and grants from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Construction is expected to take 18 months, with a projected completion date in early 2025. The facility will employ 35 full-time staff and 50 part-time workers, according to county planning documents. Local advocates have praised the investment, noting the current shelter’s aging infrastructure and lack of climate-controlled spaces for animals.
The shelter’s design includes solar panels and water recycling systems to reduce environmental impact. Officials say the new site will also partner with local schools and nonprofits to expand spay/neuter programs. The existing shelter will remain operational until the new facility opens, with temporary housing for animals arranged at nearby facilities.