Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit – Dearborn

Friends of Animals of Metro Detroit had been fundraising for a new facility for 10 years. The existing shelter, handling close to 3,000 animals of all varieties each year, was compromised by limited space, and with being 30 years old, was in need of major repairs. The plan was to renovate a former 2,000 sf Amtrak facility and build a new 10,000 sf Adoption Center. A bold decision was made to begin construction before all the funds were raised. This required an Add Alternate in the bid which covered 40% of the interior space and 20% of the total construction cost. The "shovel in the ground" re-energized the fundraising campaign, and the project team succeeded in seamlessly incorporating the alternate into the construction plans and schedule. Neumann/Smith provided services for schematic design of a new animal shelter located in Dearborn's civic center. The new facility now provides a healthy environment for the animals; a positive experience for visiting members of the community; creates an appropriate workspace for staff and volunteers; employs innovative and sustainable ecological design and state-of-the-art animal care housing, equipment and practices; and provides the opportunity for robust community involvement, education and enrichment. The second phase of the project, which will require an additional capital funding, is 6,000 sf and includes space for animal intake and evaluation, medical facilities and administrative offices.