The city continues to work, although at a slow pace, on its goal of
constructing and operating an emergency shelter on X Street near Alhambra Boulevard to address the needs of those currently unhoused in our community, especially in its immediate vicinity.
The Federal Highway Administration claims the parcel is part of the federal highway system and thus requires its approval. Caltrans disagrees and has pushed back. Even though no federal response has been received yet, Caltrans is working on getting a lease signed with the city. Funds for construction have been approved by the City Council.The city hopes construction can parallel preparation for operation.
Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency will oversee operations by a private entity, which was expected to be selected by September.
SHRA has taken responsibility for keeping the surrounding grounds clean.
Operators are required to incorporate services by local community-based organizations as much as possible. For example, Downtown Streets provides cleanup services, often hiring newly sheltered individuals. The city offers wrap-around services that go beyond housing. The Urban League provides workforce development. Drug and alcohol rehabilitation services will be available on site. The American Legion High School culinary program may prepare food for the residents.
The goal is to have a community based shelter operation rather than just a city service. Volunteers are expected to pitch in, including people from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, WellSpace and Sutter Health.
While 100 beds will be available, unhoused individuals will only be accepted by referral, with no walk-ins allowed.
“As Sacramentans, we have a responsibility to support our neighbors, particularly those who have fallen on tough times,” says Councilmember Jay Schenirer. “We must build an infrastructure in our city that moves individuals and their families from homeless to housed, from unemployed to working, from desperation to success.
“The W/X Shelter is one piece of a larger support network the city is building to fulfill our responsibilities and I look forward to its important opening. I am thankful for the backing it has received from our neighborhood.”
Councilmember Jay Schenirer