The City of Denton will hold an official groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday, Aug. 12, for the expansion of the Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center, a $17.5 million project intended to add capacity, update shelter operations and expand veterinary care.
The expanded shelter at 3717 N. Elm St. will include a new wing and renovations to the existing building. Planned improvements include expanded adoption and stray-hold areas, new indoor/outdoor runs and play yards, upgraded isolation and quarantine areas, and an expanded clinic with a larger surgery suite and recovery spaces.
The Denton City Council approved the $17.5 million contract for the expansion and renovation on May 19, 2026. The project is funded through the 2023 voter-approved bond package.
“Denton Animal Services plays an integral role within our community. Their teams respond to emergencies, reunite families with their pets, and provide safe, compassionate care for lost and unhoused animals,” says Interim City Manager Cassey Ogden. “This project is possible because of the voter-supported 2023 bond program and the belief that caring for our community also means caring for the animals that depend on us.”
Groundbreaking details
- Event: Official groundbreaking ceremony for the Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center expansion
- Date and time: Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 9 a.m.
- Location: 3717 N. Elm St.
- Project cost: $17.5 million
- Updates: www.cityofdenton.com/animalshelterexpansion
Construction timeline
Construction began in June 2026 and is planned in three phases.
- Phase One: June 2026 – May 2027. Work begins with the buildout of the new addition to the existing animal shelter. Service impacts are not anticipated during this phase.
- Phases Two and Three: June 2027. These phases are anticipated to begin in June of 2027 and will occur simultaneously. Work includes renovation of the existing building, including dog isolation and quarantine spaces, staff office spaces and the veterinary clinic. Service impacts are anticipated during these phases.
The city said additional details, including service level changes, will be shared as the work approaches.