The Humane Society of Manatee County in Bradenton, Florida, is set to undergo a $13 million transformation to construct a modern adoption center and cat facility on its campus. The organization has been operating on 14th Street West for 55 years, with its main shelter building dating back to 1947 and the Cat Cottage even older.
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Currently, the two-and-a-half-acre campus includes several separate buildings. The new plan will consolidate all operations under one roof, expanding the facility from 6,700 square feet to nearly 12,000 square feet. The upgraded shelter will include dedicated intake, triage, and isolation areas to enhance the safety and health of the animals.
Outdoor features will comprise three turf yards, one of which will have a splash pad or pool for dogs. Additionally, the new building will be designed to withstand hurricanes, providing better protection for both staff and animals.
Executive Director Rick Yocum emphasized that the project aims to improve conditions for animals, staff, and volunteers, stating, "This is going to give us enough space... Everything to keep our animals safe and healthy."
The majority of the funding for the $13 million project is already secured, but the shelter is seeking further community support to cover operational costs. Groundbreaking is anticipated within a year, with the adoption center potentially opening as early as May 2028. Yocum noted the high excitement level within the community, saying, "The bottom line is this will be better for the animals here."
Information for this report was provided by FOX 13's Kimberly Kuizon, who spoke with Executive Director Rick Yocum regarding the expansion plans.