The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors has taken a significant step towards addressing homelessness in Tracy by unanimously approving an allocation of $7,167,798 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the completion of Tracy's Temporary Emergency Housing Facility.This funding is a continuation of the County's commitment to supporting the City's efforts to provide temporary emergency housing and supportive services for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Board had previously allocated $3,661,113 in ARPA funds for the development and construction of the facility in July 2021.
Chair of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, Robert Rickman, expressed his support for the local government's initiatives to combat homelessness, emphasizing the importance of working together as a community to make a positive impact. The collaborative effort between the County and the City of Tracy has brought about significant progress, culminating in the provision of shelter and resources to 48 unsheltered individuals.
Tracy City Council's declaration of a shelter crisis in August 2022 prompted immediate actions to implement interim housing solutions until the completion of the Temporary Emergency Housing Facility. Within a short span of three months, five modular buildings were set up at the Arbor Avenue site to provide interim housing during construction. Additionally, supportive services were established, and the first interim shelter guests and their pets were welcomed on November 14, 2022.
Mayor Nancy Young expressed her pride in the collective effort to aid the most vulnerable in Tracy and acknowledged the County's crucial partnership and funding allocation to help those experiencing homelessness. The $7.1 million will be utilized for site improvements to increase the facility's current capacity by 68 additional beds.
During the recent meeting of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, Tracy's Director of Mobility and Housing, Adriana Castaneda, presented updates on the construction progress, outlined outreach and response efforts, and discussed the City's plans for the allocated funds. Mayor Pro Tempore Eleassia Davis and Council Member Mateo Bedolla also shared their gratitude for the County's leadership and unwavering support of the funding request.
The Temporary Emergency Housing Facility, situated on 4.8 acres at 370 W. Arbor Avenue, aims to provide a 6,300-square-foot low-barrier shelter accommodating individuals, partners, pets, and possessions. Alongside emergency housing, guests will have access to case management and supportive services.
Tracy is currently accepting proposals for the facility operator and construction management services for the project. These ongoing efforts signify the community's commitment to addressing homelessness effectively and compassionately in Tracy.