The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is set to deliberate on a proposal to establish and manage a Safe Stay parking community for homeless individuals in today’s supervisors meeting.
“Homelessness is one of the most pressing challenges confronting the Sacramento region, and the county has made significant investments in enhancing services, shelter capacity, and housing support for those experiencing homelessness. Despite these efforts, homelessness continues to rise, impacting communities across the county.”
Emily Halcon, the Director of the Sacramento County Department of Homeless Services and Housing.
On October 25, 2022, the Board of Supervisors granted approval for the acquisition of the former Price Club property situated at 4837 Watt Avenue in North Highlands, with the intention of establishing and operating a Safe Stay Community on the premises.
This initiative has since been dubbed the “Watt Safe Parking Program.” Its primary objective is to provide assistance to individuals currently experiencing unsheltered homelessness, especially those residing in vehicles on Roseville Road and in the vicinity of the McClellan Business Park, as per the Sacramento County Department of Homeless Services and Housing (DHSH). The program will encompass a range of services, including waste disposal, food provision, shower facilities, pest control, janitorial services, telecommunications, internet access, on-site security, and more. Furthermore, outreach teams will play a crucial role in facilitating the transition of guests into the Safe Parking Program.
The DHSH has disclosed that the property acquisition was made possible through grants and funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) district allocations. The estimated total cost for the safe parking construction project is $1.3 million, and it will be financed through ARPA district allocations, with District 3 contributing $1 million and District 4 contributing $300,000.
