New Animal Shelter Floor Plan Features Cat Zone and Education Center

A new animal shelter design took center stage during the Village of Riverwoods Plan Commission meeting on July 10, 2025, showcasing innovative features aimed at enhancing animal welfare and community engagement. The proposed building, highlighted in a recent presentation, includes a unique layout that emphasizes both indoor and outdoor spaces for animals.

The design features a spacious cat adoption area, described as a "communal space," which aims to create a welcoming environment for potential adopters. Additionally, the shelter will house an education center intended for teaching humane practices to community groups and children, as well as providing training for dogs.

Key elements of the plan include a generous lobby and a dedicated intake area, ensuring efficient operations. A notable aspect is the incorporation of a courtyard designed to minimize noise, with enclosed runs that provide a safe and quiet environment for the animals.

The meeting underscored the importance of this project not only for animal care but also for fostering community involvement and education. As the design progresses, stakeholders anticipate that these features will significantly enhance the shelter's functionality and its role within the Riverwoods community.