Houston City Council approves a $16M homeless “super hub” on Emancipation Avenue, with full-time HPD officers and new civility zone protections.
HOUSTON — The Houston City Council voted Wednesday to approve the purchase of an east Houston property that will serve as a large shelter for the homeless, which some have referred to as a “super hub.”
The $16 million facility at 419 Emancipation Avenue was proposed as a “housing-focused triage site” for people experiencing homelessness. The site is expected to provide access to psychiatric support, substance abuse programs, pathways to housing, and more.
Officials have said the facility could accommodate anywhere from 240 to 320 people. The shelter has been described as “low-barrier,” meaning individuals can access services without meeting strict requirements, such as sobriety.
During Wednesday’s meeting, Mayor John Whitmire revealed new details about security plans for the facility. He said the site will have eight Houston Police Department officers and a sergeant assigned full time, calling it a “mini-substation.”
Whitmire also said the city’s civility ordinance, which prohibits public camping and certain types of loitering in specific zones, will be extended to cover the area around the site.
The measure passed with a majority vote, though one council member opposed the purchase, citing ongoing concerns about safety and community impact.
Councilmember Edward Pollard, who represents District J, said he could not support the proposal, arguing it didn’t fully address concerns from constituents. He also raised questions about ongoing operating costs.
Immediately after Pollard’s remarks, tensions rose when Whitmire called on Councilmember Twila Carter to respond to what he called “misinformation” about the project.
Councilmember Mario Castillo later proposed several adjustments to the plan, including starting occupancy at 25% and gradually scaling up. He also suggested relocating the main entrance to the back of the property to avoid long lines forming at the front of the building.
On Wednesday, Whitmire suggested that 419 Emancipation was just a “first step,” and the site could serve as the first of several similar hubs envisioned across the city.
According to the approved proposal, the city will finance the property purchase through reimbursement of the Equipment/Projects Fund (Fund 1850), which will be repaid through various TIRZ funds.
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