SAN FRANCISCO — Plans for a 225-bed shelter for homeless people along the Embarcadero have been reduced after the initial proposal provoked intense opposition from neighborhood residents.
Mayor London Breed, a proponent of the early plans, now says she would support creating a 130-bed facility on what is now a parking lot near Delancey Street. Over time, this navigation center, which would provide other resources to people seeking housing, would grow to have 200 beds.
The new plan calls for shortening the lease to two years from four, but with an option for an extension if the center performs well. Four patrol officers would be dedicated to the site for most of the day to alleviate concerns from neighbors about safety and drug use. City officials acknowledge that loitering is the biggest problem at the six other navigation center around the city.
The site for the center is on land owned by the Port of San Francisco. Next week, its commissioners are expected to vote on allowing the land to be used for the shelter.
A vocal opposition of Rincon Hill and South Beach residents has sprung up against the plan. At one community meeting earlier this month, Breed was shouted down and interrupted by critics, leading to an argumentative response from her.
"Sir, either you let me speak or you leave," she said to one member of the audience while trying to discuss the project.
Supervisor Matt Haney, who represents this waterfront neighborhood and supports the navigation center's creation, will introduce legislation that would put the newfangled shelters in all districts that do not currently have one.
Related
