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The city of Aurora is planning a new animal shelter to meet the needs of a rapidly growing community. The new facility will increase capacity, elevate the standard of care and create a more efficient, welcoming experience for visitors.

The new shelter is being built on city-owned land just southeast of the current shelter near East 32nd Avenue and Chambers Road. The 42,000-square-foot building is designed to support animals in care while improving public access to services. Opening is anticipated in 2028. 

For questions about this project, please email [email protected] or call 303.326.8280.

Project Overview 

Why a new animal shelter is needed

• Outdated facility: The current shelter is 13,000 square feet and was built in the 1980s as an impound facility. The building was later converted and does not support the full scope of modern animal care and community services 
• Rapid population growth: Aurora has grown from approximately 150,000 residents in the 1980s to more than 400,000 today 
• High demand: The shelter operates at 90% to 95% capacity year-round, limiting flexibility and space for animals in need 

Community Impact 

The new Aurora Animal Shelter will: 

• Expand the city’s ability to care for and protect animals 
• Improve outcomes for adoptions and fosters 
• Enhance the experience for community members accessing shelter services
• Support public safety and animal welfare across the community 

Project Significance

The new shelter is a critical infrastructure investment that supports Aurora’s current and future needs. The project aligns with the city’s strategic outcome of being a well-managed city.

Key Features 

• Two-story, 42,000-square-foot facility with more than 250 animal housing units for dogs, cats, small mammals, birds and reptiles 
• Two intake areas: one for adoptions and fosters, and the other for owner surrenders 
• On-site veterinary and medical spaces to support the health and treatment of animals in care 
• Outdoor play yards and meet-and-greet areas for dogs 
• Welcoming lobby designed to improve the adoption and intake experience
• Future-ready design with space to accommodate expansion as community needs grow 

Funding Strategy 

The estimated total project cost is $51.3 million, funded through a combination of sources: 

City of Aurora contributions:

• $27 million – Certificates of Participation (COPs) 
• $16 million – Impact fees 
• $5 million – Capital project funds 

Federal and public contributions: 

• $2.9 million – American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) 
• $460,000 – Community donations  

Project Timeline 

• Q2 2026: Construction begins 
• Q4 2027: Anticipated completion 
• 2028: Public opening