Stratham, NH The New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NHSPCA) held a ceremonial groundbreaking celebration at their location at 104 Portsmouth Ave. The celebration marks the beginning of a construction project of 6,700 s/f of interior renovations, two additions to the existing structure totaling 4,900 s/f and the required site work and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements for a new 9,500 s/f riding arena and 3,000 s/f horse barn. North Branch Construction is doing the construction for NHSPCA.

Two new additions to the existing structure will house areas for a new wellness veterinary clinic and a classroom and staff area. Spaces within the existing structures, including the Adoption Center, will also receive renovations to address the organization’s changing needs and to provide upgrades to HVAC and other systems and finishes. In addition, extensive site work and landscaping will improve outdoor areas along the front of the building at public entrances, and in areas such as the dog play area and in and around the Memorial Garden at the rear of the property.

The NHSPCA began a new strategic planning initiative in 2013 to assess the organizations needs and make plans for the future. Out of this planning effort, it was determined that significant investments were required in three key areas: 

• Expanding to better address the need for equine and farm animal rescue and provide year-round training and rehabilitation.

• Upgrade current facilities to provide superior medical care, quarantine space, and community programming areas.

• Securing the organization’s Endowment Fund for future financial stability, the support of current and new programming. 

Fundraising efforts began in 2017 with the “Campaign for Changing Times,” with an initial phase dedicated to securing private donations, followed by a public phase in 2019. 

ARQ Architects is the architectural design firm on the project.

Shown in the photo (from left) are: Paul Bonacci and Lucy Schlaffer of ARQ Architects; Joshua Scott, Esq., president, NHSPCA board of directors; Ed Rimm, project manager for North Branch; John Kellar of Kellar Associates; Joseph Campbell, president of North Branch; David Choate, chair of NHSPCA properties committee; Bill Richard, NHSPCA board of directors and properties committee construction liaison; Shanti Wolph and Tavis Austin, town of Stratham CEO/building inspector and town planner, respectively; Karen Grover, co-chair, campaign for changing times; Thomas Haas, campaign for Changing Times cabinet representative; Joanne Lamprey, co-chair, Campaign for Changing Times; and Lisa Dennison, executive director, NHSPCA.