In July 2025, King County purchased a building to serve as the future headquarters of Regional Animal Services of King County and home to the Pet Adoption Center. As soon as the purchase was complete, the project team began planning the build out of the new facility. Early designs focused on modular construction within the existing warehouse space, with an initial goal of opening the new building in 2027.

As design work progressed, several important needs emerged – both from building code requirements and operational considerations – that expanded the scope of work beyond what could be accomplished with the original budget. Once the need for additional funding became clear, the project team worked with County leadership to develop a request for the resources necessary to complete the full build out.

The updated design represents a major improvement over the existing shelter. It will enhance operations, improve animal welfare and safety, and better serve the public. The layout is intentionally designed to streamline the movement of people and animals, reduce unnecessary interactions and risk, strengthen disease prevention measures, and provide modern, appropriate housing for animals in our care.

On September 24, County Executive Girmay Zahilay transmitted a request to the King County Council for an additional $13.4 million for the project. If approved, this will bring the total budget, including the building purchase, to $33.2 million. The additional funding will primarily support construction in the warehouse area, including dog kennels, a fully built-out veterinary clinic, and improved ventilation systems to meet animal sheltering needs.

While planning continues, our teams have already begun important repairs and updates at the new site, such as electrical and plumbing upgrades, ADA compliant restroom improvements, and refreshed flooring and paint in existing office areas.

The proposal is moving through the budget process and a decision is expected to be made by the end of November. If approved, the project will move into the competitive bidding phase. Because of the expanded scope and necessary improvements, the construction timeline will extend beyond earlier estimates. The new facility is now expected to open in 2028.