SAN DIEGO, CA (July 16, 2024) – Today the Board of Supervisors approved a significant new initiative to combat homelessness and provide safe, temporary housing for residents in need. With an allocation of $8.5 million from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, the Board has greenlit the process to place up to 70 sleeping cabins at a designated site in Lemon Grove.  

Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe, who led this initiative, reacts to the Board’s approval, stating: “This project represents a major investment in the health and well-being of our community. Sleeping Cabins won’t just provide a place to sleep; they will provide a chance for individuals to regain stability and dignity as they transition to permanent housing. The approval of this plan is a testament to our commitment to addressing homelessness compassionately and effectively. It is my hope that the Governor sees the value in this investment and renews our partnership to combat the homelessness crisis together.”  

The ARPA funds will cover the construction, installation, and maintenance of 70 sleeping cabins, as well as essential spaces such as offices, storage, and restrooms for residents. Support services will include:  

The Board of Supervisors previously authorized the acceptance of $10 million from the State of California to offset the construction costs of placing 150 sleeping cabins in Spring Valley.  But after hearing concerns from the Spring Valley community, Chairwoman Nora Vargas presented an item last month to rescind the Board's approval. During that item’s consideration, Supervisor Montgomery Steppe made an amendment to direct county staff to revisit the Troy Street site in Lemon Grove for sleeping cabins.  The timeline to complete this site is estimated at 24 months.