Fruit Heights, UT (Nov. 4, 2026)—Construction has begun on a new shelter for Davis County Animal Care, with Layton Construction leading the build. The 27,223 SF facility will replace the county’s aging 11,000 SF shelter, built in 1985. The mechanical systems and air handling units in the original building were deemed unreliable, and the existing space did not have sufficient room to quarantine and care for sick animals. The replacement shelter will include:
– Veterinary clinic
– Educational community room
– Space for 94 cats and 60 dogs
– Fenced exercise areas
“Designed with purpose and efficiency at its core, our new Davis County Animal Shelter prioritizes modern animal care and sensible community investments above all else,” said Director of Davis County Animal Care Michelle Hicks. “This functional floor plan expands our capacity to protect vulnerable pets while creating welcoming spaces for local families to connect, volunteer, and adopt. We are proud to deliver a practical facility that directly elevates our service to the Davis County community and the animals in our care.”
The new facility will be built on the same 12 acres that house the current shelter. It will align with best practices in animal care, providing larger, angled kennels that help reduce stress on dogs, and smaller groupings of kennels to reduce noise. The new facility will be built on the same 12-acre site as the current shelter, where the existing barn will remain and receive a new water connection.
“It’s not every day a project gives you a chance to build for animals needing a home,” said Layton Executive Vice President Jeff Palmer. “We’re honored to once again partner with Davis County to support the community and create a welcoming place to care for rescues.”
The shelter is expected to be complete in mid-2028.
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About Layton Construction
Layton Construction is a privately held national general contractor, delivering predictable outcomes in commercial construction since 1953. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Layton operates from 16 strategic offices across the United States, employing more than 2,200 construction professionals who serve diverse markets including healthcare, education, commercial office, industrial, hospitality, and multi-unit residential. Founded on the core values of honesty, unity, safety, and quality, Layton has built a reputation for excellence in complex project delivery while maintaining strong partnerships with clients, architects, and trade partners nationwide.
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