UPDATE: Vallejo’s long-anticipated Broadway Project homeless facility has officially opened its doors, with 10 individuals receiving keys on December 18 and 19, 2023. City officials expect occupancy to soar to at least 90 percent by December 31. “We have scheduled five tenants per business day through Christmas Eve, which will bring us up to 40 tenants with keys in hand by the end of the day on Christmas Eve,” announced Natalie Peterson, Assistant to the City Manager, during a city council meeting.
This groundbreaking facility, located at 2441 Broadway, marks a significant step forward in addressing homelessness in Vallejo, which has faced ongoing challenges. Peterson confirmed that move-ins will continue post-Christmas, with plans to reach full capacity soon after. “At minimum, we will hit 90 percent occupancy before the end of the year,” she stated.
The Broadway Project consists of 47 units designed to provide permanent supportive housing. Gillian Haen, Assistant City Manager, expressed her enthusiasm, noting, “Houseless people in Vallejo are moving off the street into beautiful homes for Christmas! Our work matters to those 47 people.”
The facility has been a long time in the making, plagued by delays and budget overruns. Originally budgeted at $9 million, the project’s costs ballooned to $27 million. Funding sources include $11 million from the State of California’s Homekey Project and additional support from local government initiatives.
Officials confirm that the building is fully operational, with on-site property management and essential services in place. Residents moving in have been seen loading their belongings into the facility, a sight that has brought hope to many in the community.
In a heartfelt moment during the meeting, community member William Baker urged officials to dedicate a space within the facility to honor James Oakley, a man who tragically lost his life while experiencing homelessness. Baker’s emotional appeal highlighted the urgent need for support and remembrance as the community celebrates the opening of this new facility.
The Broadway Project is not just about providing housing; it is about transforming lives. The facility is equipped with essential services, including case management and mental health support, crucial for residents transitioning from homelessness. Peterson assured that at least two case managers will be available on-site to assist individuals in accessing necessary resources.
As Vallejo continues to tackle homelessness, the successful opening of the Broadway Project serves as a beacon of hope for the community. The city is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony targeting late January or early February, further solidifying the project’s significance.
Residents can look forward to more developments as the city moves forward in its commitment to addressing homelessness. The Broadway Project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to support their most vulnerable members.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, and share this urgent news with others to spread awareness about the ongoing efforts in Vallejo.