The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has taken a significant step towards addressing homelessness by approving an agreement to allocate $7.3 million to the city of Tempe. This funding will be utilized to expand shelter options for individuals experiencing homelessness in the area.
As part of the agreement, Maricopa County will provide $7.3 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to acquire and rehabilitate a motel located in Tempe. To further enhance the project, Tempe will contribute an additional $3 million, resulting in a total investment of over $10 million. The renovated motel will offer up to 60 units of shelter, providing essential bridge housing to help people transition out of homelessness. At any given time, approximately 120 individuals experiencing homelessness will find residence at this facility.
Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4, says, “This collaborative project with the city of Tempe is another important step towards addressing homelessness in our community. With the purchase of this motel, we can provide shelter and support to those in need and help them find a sustainable plan to end their homelessness.”
The shelter will be designed to accommodate various populations, including singles, couples, seniors, families with children, and individuals with disabilities. Moreover, the facility will be pet-friendly, allowing individuals to keep their beloved animal companions with them during their stay.
Supervisor Jack Sellers, District 1, emphasizes the significance of working together to tackle the multifaceted issue of homelessness, saying, “Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a coordinated effort to address. By pooling our resources and working together, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. I am grateful for this collaboration with the city of Tempe and Mayor Woods to expand the region’s shelter capacity and support services for people experiencing homelessness.”
In addition to providing a safe and secure place to sleep, the housing complex will offer comprehensive case management services. The city of Tempe’s Community Health and Human Services department will facilitate connections to city and community resources, including employment opportunities through the Tempe Works jobs program. Additionally, the department will assist with longer-term shelter and housing options to improve housing stability.
Tempe Mayor Corey Woods says, “We are grateful to Maricopa County for their leadership and partnership and this new opportunity to expand our comprehensive response to homelessness. Through new investments, strategies, and partnerships, we are making progress in elevating the continued health, safety, and quality of life of our entire community.”
The city of Tempe will manage the facility as a homeless shelter for the next decade. However, after the 10-year period, the city will have the option to convert the site to an alternative use, such as the development of affordable housing.
This investment in addressing homelessness is one of several initiatives announced by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in recent weeks. The board has collaborated with cities including Avondale, Chandler, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Surprise, as well as the Human Services Campus and St. Vincent de Paul, contributing over $30 million to provide solutions to the regional issue of homelessness.
The collaboration between Maricopa County and the city of Tempe highlights the importance of joining forces to combat homelessness effectively. By pooling resources, expertise, and compassion, these communities are working towards creating a brighter future for individuals experiencing homelessness in the region. For more information, visit maricopa.gov.
