Lincoln planning department approves expansion of People City Mission shelter permit

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss a significant amendment to a special permit for the People City Mission, a temporary shelter for the homeless. This public hearing focused on expanding the special permit area to include a new 69,000 square foot addition at the property located at 100 and 154 P Street.

Ben Culligan from the planning department provided an overview of the project, emphasizing the need for the amendment to accommodate the growing demands of the shelter. The proposed changes include adjustments to the loading dock area and the mid-block crossing, which were previously identified as safety concerns. The planning department collaborated with the applicant and the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) to ensure that the updated site plan addressed these issues effectively.

One of the key modifications involved removing angled parking that posed a hazard due to its proximity to turning vehicles at the intersection. The revised plan now features a 90-degree parking layout and a single, larger entrance equipped with a gate for better traffic management. Additionally, the mid-block crossing was eliminated, directing patrons to cross at designated points on either end of the block.

The commission received a memo detailing these updates, which will be incorporated into the existing site plan. This amendment represents a crucial step in enhancing the facilities available for the homeless population in Lincoln, reflecting the community's commitment to addressing homelessness through improved infrastructure.

As the meeting concluded, the commission opened the floor for questions and comments, indicating a willingness to engage with community concerns regarding the project. The approval of this special permit amendment is expected to facilitate the timely expansion of services at the People City Mission, addressing urgent needs within the community.