Amid San Diego’s ongoing housing crisis, the impending demolition of aging structures near the San Diego International Airport has ignited a debate concerning the establishment of what could become the city’s largest shelter. The site, known as H Barracks, is set for redevelopment, making way for a shelter that could potentially house hundreds of individuals in need.
H Barracks is situated on City-owned industrial land between Kincaid Road and McCain Road, just a 25-minute walk from Liberty Station. The site was historically used as a training ground for the police and fire departments, according to the City of San Diego. Plans are underway to relocate the training facilities. Within a five-year timeframe, the City aims to transform the site into a Pure Water recycling facility. However, in the interim period, there’s an opportunity to utilize this space to contribute to addressing homelessness.
However, the proposal has encountered substantial opposition, particularly from residents in the vicinity of Liberty Station, according to a report from the San Diego Union Tribune. Concerns abound regarding the potential impact on nearby schools, businesses and the broader community fabric. As the site undergoes clearance, discussions have emerged around the various shelter options, including a large fabric structure capable of accommodating around 700 individuals.
While city officials emphasize the provision of comprehensive services, such as bathrooms, showers, meals, case managers, transportation and round-the-clock security, local apprehensions persist regarding the shelter’s scale and its proximity to residential and commercial areas.
The proposed shelter’s potential influence on crime rates and the neighborhood’s dynamics remains uncertain, despite assurances from officials about safety measures and the potential to reduce nearby encampments.
The site could open as soon as July 1, per the San Diego Union Tribune report, which is also when no camping enforcement would start.
