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Council presented with $1.14 million change order to upgrade electrical and mechanical systems at animal care campus
Summary
Staff recommended a $1,136,282.26 change order to upgrade electrical and HVAC systems at the Irving Animal Care Campus, citing indoor air-quality and cross-contamination concerns; approval would extend construction completion from November 2025 to April 2026.
City project staff presented a change order recommendation on May 29 to the Irving Animal Care Campus expansion that would increase the construction contract by $1,136,282.26 to upgrade mechanical, electrical and related systems in the existing facility.
Project managers said upgrades were not included in the original scope because bond funds allocated for the expansion were originally expected to cover only the new addition. An evaluation in October 2024 found the existing mechanical systems were insufficient to meet the air‑quality needs of the entire expanded facility. The recommended change order will add approximately $544,000 for mechanical upgrades, $404,000 for electrical-service upgrades (including a new pole and utility work), and about $187,000 for design changes identified in collaboration with the DFW Humane Society and operational staff.
City staff explained the existing electrical service can support the base addition but not the additional HVAC load; the change order therefore includes service upgrades and a scheduled power shutdown to enable the work. Staff said the work increases the original contract by roughly 22% and will shift the expected completion date from November 2025 to April 2026 to accommodate lead times for larger equipment and phasing.
Police and parks leaders attending the briefing described earlier operational coordination and the plan to mitigate impacts during construction. Chief Derek Miller and project staff said they are coordinating temporary yard arrangements and materials to minimize stress and maintain operations. Staff also emphasized daily coordination meetings with DFW Humane Society and construction foremen.
Why it matters: Upgraded ventilation, quarantine separation and electrical capacity are central to animal care, infection control and the facility’s long-term operation; the contract increase and schedule extension have near-term budget and operational implications.
