Orlando has scrapped plans to convert the Orange County Work Release Center into a homeless shelter following strong community opposition. In response, city officials are now considering a mobile shelter initiative utilizing two 45-foot buses equipped with sleeping pods.
Mayor Buddy Dyer announced the decision on social media, confirming that the city will explore the mobile shelter bus program instead. The Orlando City Council is set to vote on the proposal on March 24.
Community Concerns Over Fixed-Site Shelter
The original plan aimed to repurpose the Orange County Work Release Center on Kaley Avenue into a shelter for unhoused individuals. The proposal was met with resistance from residents of SoDo (South of Downtown Orlando), who voiced concerns about safety, property values, and the concentration of homelessness services in one area. Many advocated for a more distributed approach to addressing homelessness across the city.
Mobile Shelter Bus Program Details
City officials are now proposing an alternative solution: a fleet of two 45-foot buses equipped with sleeping pods. Each bus would accommodate approximately 20 individuals and include bathrooms. The program, known as 407 Connect, seeks to provide temporary housing while offering social services to help individuals transition out of homelessness.
If approved, the mobile shelter initiative would represent a shift toward a decentralized approach to addressing homelessness in Orlando. City officials believe the mobility of the buses will allow for more flexibility in meeting the needs of unhoused individuals while addressing concerns about neighborhood impact.
Next Steps for the Proposal
The Orlando City Council is scheduled to vote on the mobile shelter proposal on March 24. Should the initiative receive approval, the buses could be operational as early as June. Advocates for the homeless are eager for further details on the program’s implementation, including potential stationing locations and duration of stays for individuals utilizing the service.
The decision to explore mobile shelters marks a significant development in Orlando’s efforts to address homelessness while balancing community concerns. As the city moves forward with this proposal, officials will need to navigate logistical challenges and ensure the program effectively serves those in need.