San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and City Councilman Steve Whitburn announced last week that the city is opening two “safe sleeping sites”—meaning land where the homeless can set up tents and receive services—near Balboa Park.
The cost to do so is $5 million and is part of Gloria’s 2023-24 fiscal year budget.
The locations will have restrooms, 24-hour security, free meals, and social service agencies, according to Gloria.
The ultimate goal is to help people get back onto their feet and moved into long term housing,” Gloria said during a May 8 press conference.
The first site—which will open in July—will be located at 20th Street and Avenue B, a few miles outside Balboa Park. It can accommodate 150 tents, according to city officials….