At the corner of SE 14th and Harriett streets in Des Moines, a forward-thinking facility now stands as a beacon of care for animals and the community. The new Des Moines Animal Services Facility replaces an outdated structure, introducing a modern, flood-resilient space that improves animal welfare and enhances public engagement.
Engineering Resilience Near the River
Snyder & Associates provided essential civil engineering services for the new facility, including detailed site grading, utility layout, and stormwater management design. The site’s proximity to the Des Moines River and its levee system presented unique challenges, particularly the limited drainage capacity and the need for integration with the city’s stormwater pump system. Our team tackled these issues through strategic grading and innovative water quality improvements that enhance the site’s long-term resilience. Working in close collaboration with the City of Des Moines, the design team at Office of Hartman Spiller Trapp (Office HST), and other project partners, Snyder & Associates helped develop a safe and functional site that supports the facility’s critical services. Our design also incorporated an off-site sanitary sewer extension, ensuring reliable utility service and smooth facility operations.
A Foundation for Care & Connection
The result is a 22,000-square-foot facility that reflects the city’s commitment to both animal welfare and community well-being. Designed with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, the building features animal housing, adoption spaces, a veterinary clinic, and outdoor exercise areas. Elevated three feet above grade for flood resilience, the site and structure work together to mitigate flood risks without exceeding levee heights. Beyond engineering, the project’s success lies in its mission — transforming public perceptions of animal shelters. With natural daylight, calming outdoor trails, and strategically separated spaces to reduce animal stress, the facility promotes interaction and adoption while prioritizing health and safety. Snyder & Associates is proud to have contributed to this project, ensuring that the new Des Moines Animal Services Facility is built on a solid, sustainable foundation, ready to serve pets and people for years to come.
