HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston City Council voted Wednesday to spend $16 million to open what they’re calling a homeless “superhub.”
The vote was delayed for weeks following pushback from community members, citing safety and quality of life concerns.
All but one councilmember voted in favor of the facility.
The homeless center will be located along Emancipation Avenue, just east of downtown near Shell Stadium.
Houston Public Safety Director Larry Satterwhite has said the “suberhub” would accept walk-ins and help fight against chronic homelessness in surrounding areas.
“Downtown, the East End, EaDo, and Midtown have been ground-zero for our street homeless,” Satterwhite has explained.
The community has been protesting the purchase of the building, which was formerly an immigration housing facility. They say they’re concerned about their own safety.
Some residents of the area have referred to city officials as being “sneaky” in their acquisition of the facility.
“I’m concerned for my safety,” Cassie Batson said.
“I think this is just going to draw more people loitering out on the streets,” she added.
City officials say the Houston Police Department and other law enforcement agencies will increase patrols in the area surrounding the center.
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