Reducing homelessness means ensuring we have enough shelter space to get people off the street and on the path to permanent housing. 

We continue our success to create new shelters with Council support to move forward along with our San Diego Housing Commission to evaluate a privately owned site on Second Avenue that could be adapted for shelter use. While this location will require negotiations with the property owner, it presents an opportunity to provide stability for those in need and strengthen our ability to reduce homelessness. The City Council also supports expanding capacity at Veterans Village of San Diego.  

Yesterday’s action builds on the work we’ve been doing to expand shelter options through our Short-Term Action Plan. In the past few months alone, we’ve added 263 beds across three new facilities, and this spring, we’ll nearly double the Safe Parking Program with the opening of H Barracks near the airport. Later this week, the San Diego Housing Commission will consider a proposal for a new 200-bed shelter in partnership with Catholic Charities, which will provide additional shelter options for seniors and single women. 

Did You Know? Many of our shelters are in temporary locations that will eventually need to move due to site restrictions or redevelopment plans. By identifying permanent shelter locations now, we’re reducing costly relocations and building a more sustainable homelessness response system. 

Every investment in shelter and housing moves us closer to the ultimate goal: getting people off the street and into care. I appreciate the City Council’s partnership and remain committed to expanding shelter and bringing an end to unsafe encampments. 

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