During a recent government meeting, Tucson officials provided an update on the Housing First Resource Center project, which aims to address the city's homelessness crisis. The project, located at the former Fire Station 8 in the Amphi area, is set for a public hearing and is designed to serve as both a shelter and a day-use facility for unhoused individuals.

The Housing First program, established in 2020, has been instrumental in offering various services, including street outreach, housing navigation, and emergency shelter. Under the leadership of Director Brandy Champion, the program has expanded its reach, purchasing multiple motels and vacant parcels to enhance housing options.

The proposed Resource Center will feature a congregate shelter and a \"village housing model\" with up to 35 micro shelters equipped with basic amenities. The site will also include communal facilities such as showers, bathrooms, and laundry services, and will be pet-friendly. Funding for the project has been secured through community project funding and federal grants.

Community engagement has been a priority, with several public meetings held to gather input from local residents and stakeholders. While many community members expressed support for the initiative, concerns regarding safety and security were raised, particularly from those living near the proposed site. In response, city officials have committed to addressing these issues through enhanced community safety measures and landscaping plans.

The zoning examiner has recommended against the project's planned area development (PAD) approval due to density concerns, but city staff argue that the project aligns with broader housing policies and the need for additional shelter options. The council is expected to deliberate on the project's future in the upcoming public hearing, highlighting the ongoing efforts to tackle homelessness in Tucson.