College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
City and Regional Planning Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in City and Regional Planning
Date
6-2024
Primary Advisor
Kelly Main, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, City and Regional Planning Department
Abstract/Summary
Increasingly, the challenges of homelessness in urban areas have necessitated innovative solutions that leverage existing infrastructure. This project explores how repurposing underutilized spaces, such as vacant offices and hotels, into transitional shelters can provide immediate relief and long-term support for unhoused individuals. By focusing on inclusive design and strategic planning, this toolkit offers a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness through adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
Urban areas in the United States face a persistent homelessness crisis exacerbated by economic instability, lack of affordable housing, and systemic barriers. Traditional shelters often fail to provide the necessary support for long-term stability, highlighting the need for more sustainable and integrated housing solutions. This toolkit is grounded in extensive research, including literature reviews and case studies from successful initiatives in cities such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington DC. Key elements of the research include analysis of the economic and systemic challenges in the housing market, examination of Point-in-Time (PIT) data to understand the demographics and specific needs of the unhoused population, case studies on the conversion of vacant spaces into housing, assessing both the opportunities and challenges, and interviews with urban designers, policymakers, and advocates to validate findings and gather insights.
The shortage of affordable housing, rising rental costs, and systemic issues like zoning laws and gentrification significantly impact housing stability for low-income and minority groups. Detailed PIT data reveals the diverse nature of the unhoused population, including significant ethnic and gender disparities that necessitate targeted interventions. Initiatives like California’s Homekey program demonstrate the efficacy of adaptive reuse in rapidly increasing affordable housing supply while promoting community integration. Effective repurposing requires inclusive design that considers accessibility, safety, and community integration. Engagement with unhoused individuals throughout the planning process ensures that solutions meet their needs and foster a sense of ownership.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/crpsp/290