In Orlando, Florida, construction has commenced on a state-of-the-art animal shelter, marking a significant development for Orange County Animal Services.

Local officials gathered on Wednesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new facility, which is conveniently located near the existing shelter on Conroy Road. This ambitious project promises to bring significant improvements to the county’s animal welfare services.

With a budget of $49 million, the new shelter will span an impressive 123,419 square feet, making it the largest of its kind in Florida. A key feature of the facility will be its expanded medical suite, designed to better accommodate essential services, including spaying and neutering procedures.

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings expressed the county’s dedication to enhancing animal care, stating, “This project marks Orange County’s commitment to ensure each pet, and pet owner, receives the highest standard of care and respect.”

The existing shelter, built back in 1987, has been struggling to meet modern standards, notably lacking air-conditioned kennels for dogs. The new facility aims to address these shortcomings and significantly improve conditions.

Once completed, the new shelter will have the capacity to accommodate approximately 265 dogs and 200 cats, offering a better environment for both the animals and the staff who care for them.

The shelter is expected to open by the end of 2027.

It will be the second new facility for rescued pets in Orange County.

Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando opened its new facility last week on John Young Parkway, not far from Conroy Road.

[WATCH: New Pet Alliance shelter in Orlando opens this week]