On Thursday, San Diego opened its first “safe sleeping” area for the homeless as part of its efforts to tackle the ongoing homelessness crisis.
This initiative aims to address the city’s homelessness issue by providing alternative housing options, as initially proposed by the Homeless Strategies and Solutions Department in June.
“We are bringing forward a comprehensive shelter strategy with detailed proposals for the short, medium, and long terms that include expanded shelter, more safe parking, and safe sleeping offerings,” stated San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria.
The new tent campsite has opened at San Diego’s Central Operations Yard at 20th and B streets, behind a barbed-wire fence.
The campsite, operated by the nonprofit organization Dreams for Change, can accommodate around 150 people in approximately 136 tents. The purpose of this initiative is to relocate individuals from downtown areas.
The “low barrier” shelter has been established for homeless residents, allowing them access to basic amenities while prohibiting weapons, alcohol, and drugs but not requiring sobriety.
The shelter offers restrooms, meals, and mobile showers.
Additionally, a larger safe-sleeping site is set to open in the fall near the Naval Medical Center, accommodating up to 400 tents and providing similar services.
Following a city council decision, tent encampments in public spaces will be banned in San Diego, with the new regulations set to take effect later this month.
In April, the number of individuals living outside reached its highest point in over ten years, according to data from the Downtown San Diego Partnership.
The most recent count indicates that over 2,100 people reside on sidewalks or in vehicles.
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