Site preparation underway for Arrowhead Animal Rescue’s new shelter
Work on the future home of Arrowhead Animal Rescue has gained momentum recently after several years of incremental progress at the nonprofit’s new location in the Cedar Grove Business Park.
Jessica Burks, a volunteer with Arrowhead Animal Rescue, said the organization has faced several delays in getting the project moving, largely because of unexpected site conditions. While site preparation has been underway in stages, more work has begun in recent weeks.
“The biggest issue that we’ve had is that the lot has ended up being a lot more wetland than originally the city realized,” Burks said. “So that means that there needs to be additional work to prepare the lot and actually support the trailer so that our trailer is not sinking into the wetlands.”
The City of Grand Marais designated a lot in the Cedar Grove Business Park for the new animal shelter. The city retains ownership of the lot, but the nonprofit will manage and operate the new shelter once operational. The former animal shelter was removed from the Grand Marais Recreation Park in 2021. Since then, lost or surrendered pets have been temporarily housed in the garage at the Cook County Law Enforcement Center.
In 2024, Arrowhead Animal Rescue purchased a former classroom trailer from Great Expectations School to serve as the shelter building.
Burks said the recent work is focused on preparing the property for the trailer and its foundation. Work will include leveling the yard and driveway, pouring a concrete slab, and placing the trailer on top of the slab.
Once this site-preparation phase is complete, Burks said work will begin converting the former classroom space into an animal shelter.
Burks said a plumber, carpenter and roofer are ready to begin work. Renovations will include plumbing changes and the installation of sinks needed to meet cleanliness requirements for animal care.
The shelter is planned to include space for cats and dogs, as well as an area for animals that need to be quarantined while receiving treatment or vaccinations.
The organization also hopes to add outdoor spaces eventually, including a cat and dog run.
Burks said the renewed progress is a significant step for the long-running project.
“It feels like it’s finally starting to come together, and it’s exciting. We couldn’t be more thrilled. It’s been a long time in the works here,” Burks said.
WTIP’s CJ Heithoff spoke with Jessica Burks of Arrowhead Animal Rescue about the latest on-site progress and animals available for adoption. Audio below.
Kalli Hawkins August 30, 2026
