At Con J. Franke Electric, we take pride in delivering expert electrical solutions that support vital community projects. The City of Stockton Animal Shelter expansion is one such project, as it is an initiative to enhance pet adoption services, veterinary care, and overall shelter operations.
This renovation will include a new Adoption Center and Veterinary Clinic, a dedicated Cattery, medical facilities, administrative offices, conference rooms, and upgraded site utilities—all designed to improve care for animals while ensuring a more efficient and modern facility for staff and visitors alike.
Our 451-day commitment to this project, valued at $11,922,120, underscores our ability to manage complex, multi-phase electrical work while ensuring the shelter remains fully operational. From installing a new main switchboard and generator system to coordinating with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) for seamless power distribution, we are bringing industry-leading expertise to every aspect of this expansion.
Project Scope: Electrical Infrastructure for a Modernized Shelter
The success of this project depends on a robust electrical backbone. Our work includes:
- Main Electrical System (MS2) Installation – We are supplying and installing the 2000-amp main switchboard service and coordinating with PG&E who will complete the service upgrades by installing and terminating the wire, installing the electrical meter, and ensuring over all smooth electrical integration.
- Generator and Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) – To provide backup power distribution upgrades, we are installing a new generator system, ensuring continuous power during outages.
- Lighting Systems – We are implementing energy-efficient lighting fixtures and advanced lighting control systems for improved functionality and sustainability.
- Site Underground Electrical Rough-in – Our team is re-routing underground electrical conduits and utilities, laying the foundation for the shelter’s expanded operations.
- Low-Voltage Systems – Partnering with Point 1 Electrical Systems, we are integrating:
- Data and Telephone Systems
- Paging, Music, and Speaker Systems
- Access Control and Intrusion Detection
- Video Management and Fire Alarm Systems
This comprehensive electrical upgrade will create a safer, more efficient, and future-ready facility.
A Multi-Phase Approach with Continuous Shelter Operations
A key challenge in this project is maintaining full shelter operations for the staff and public while construction is underway. Our team is carefully coordinating work across three major phases:
Phase 1: Site Preparation & Utility Upgrades for New Adoption/Clinic Building
- Installing new electrical service
- Re-routing underground utilities to accommodate new construction
- Setting up a new vehicular gate and related electrical work
Phase 2: New Adoption/Clinic Building
- Fitting the new 8,071 sq. ft. area which includes a new cattery and support spaces with electrical service
- Installing site lighting and other electrical landscape enhancements
Phase 3: Interior Remodel & Facility Upgrades
- Remodeling the existing 1,810 sq. ft. steel animal holding building
- Converting a 1,774 sq. ft. existing space into a staff lounge, workstations, animal control officer area, euthanasia room, and dog isolation space
- Upgrading electrical systems to support shelter expansion needs
By breaking the project into these well-planned phases, we are helping to ensure smooth transitions, minimal disruptions, and a well-coordinated effort between our team, the shelter staff, and the general contractor.
Overcoming Challenges & Staying on Track
Keeping a facility fully operational while undergoing major renovations requires expertise in coordination, communication, and problem-solving. Our team of 20+ Con J. Franke Electric team members, overseen by Project Manager Teresa Moss and Foreman Antonio Gonzales, has been working closely with shelter staff and construction teams to maintain safety, efficiency, and project momentum.
We are actively managing:
- Tight scheduling & phasing coordination – Ensuring work progresses without disrupting daily shelter operations.
- Underground electrical modifications – Navigating the complexities of rerouting existing utilities while laying the groundwork for new systems.
- Advanced security & data integration – Incorporating modern technology to improve communication and facility access control.
Thanks to our experience in large-scale commercial electrical projects, we are anticipating challenges and staying ahead of potential delays to keep this project on track.
A Positive Impact on the Community
The City of Stockton Animal Shelter plays an essential role in the community through its continual efforts to care for homeless pets, reunite lost animals with their owners, and provide adoption services that bring joy to families. This expansion will increase the shelter’s capacity, improve veterinary care, and enhance the overall experience for staff, volunteers, and visitors.
“Who doesn’t love a pet?” said Teresa Moss, Project Manager, Con J. Franke Electric. “It’s rewarding to work on projects that play vital roles in our communities, and the shelter does just that. They bring unconditional love and fun to families young and old alike. The updated facility will provide care for homeless animals in need and reunite misplaced pets with their families. And just imagine the joy new pet owners will feel.”
By powering the future of Stockton’s animal shelter, Con J. Franke Electric is helping create a space where animals can receive the care they need, families can find their new best friends, and dedicated shelter volunteers and staff can work in an improved environment. The improved shelter will positively impact the community with employment opportunities, too.
Final Thoughts: Powering Purpose-Driven Projects
At Con J. Franke Electric, we thrive on projects that challenge us, inspire us, and make a difference. The City of Stockton Animal Shelter Expansion is a perfect example of how our expertise in commercial electrical contracting is helping to shape a better, more sustainable future.
From power distribution and backup generation to advanced security and lighting systems, we are delivering high-quality electrical solutions that ensure this shelter is built to last. We look forward to seeing the completed facility serve pets and people alike for years to come.
