HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston City Council postponed a vote on a $16 million proposal to establish a specialty homeless shelter in East Downtown until next week.
Mayor John Whitmire confirmed plans to move forward with the adults-only “superhub,” which would replace a former shelter for migrant children.
The proposed facility aims to provide psychiatric and drug addiction services for homeless individuals. Mike Nichols, director of the Housing and Community Development Department, said the shelter will focus on offering extensive medical and mental health support.
Some EaDo residents and business owners raised concerns about safety and property values. Neighborhood residents Sadique Dabo and Sharon Lambert said they were unaware of the proposal until hearing about it through news reports.
Mayor Whitmire acknowledged the need for improved communication with residents and said the neighborhood would benefit from added law enforcement presence. The Houston Police Department and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will provide support in the area.
The council vote is scheduled for next Wednesday. If approved, the shelter is expected to open in the first quarter of next year. City officials said the project is part of Houston’s broader effort to expand specialized care for the homeless population.
