Houston Proposes Ban on Sleeping on Sidewalks Amid Homelessness Crisis

Houston is set to introduce a proposal for a 24/7 ban on sleeping on sidewalks in downtown and the East End, marking a major shift in the city’s approach to homelessness. The city’s emergency management office confirmed the plan, which would expand the current civility ordinance that limits sidewalk sleeping to certain hours. The new measure aims to address the safety and welfare of individuals experiencing homelessness, although it has faced controversy due to its potential impact on vulnerable populations.

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A Significant Shift in Policy

The proposed 24/7 ban would make it illegal for individuals to sleep on sidewalks in downtown Houston and the East End at any time of day or night. Currently, the civility ordinance only restricts sleeping between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. within certain zones. The new policy, if approved by the city council, would significantly expand the city’s efforts to manage public spaces and address the growing issue of homelessness in the city.

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City Leaders on Board

Larry Satterwhite, from the city’s office of emergency management, confirmed that Mayor John Whitmire is fully supportive of the new ordinance. “The mayor is on board,” Satterwhite stated in a press conference, emphasizing that this shift will be enforced with city council approval. He explained that the city had encountered challenges with individuals taking advantage of the current law, particularly those who knew they could sleep on the streets after 11 p.m.

Expanding Homeless Support

As part of the plan, Houston will not only enforce the ban but also provide additional resources to assist people experiencing homelessness. While the previous approach to closing down encampments included offers of permanent housing, the city’s strategy has evolved to include more shelter beds for those in need. “We’re offering them a bed. A place for them to go at night,” Satterwhite said, signaling the city’s commitment to providing immediate support alongside the enforcement of the new law.

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Tackling Street Homelessness

The city has been under increased pressure to reduce street homelessness, especially in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. As part of a broader homelessness strategy, the city plans to use $50 million of hurricane recovery funds to support housing programs. Additionally, the Harris Center’s mental health and residential programs will receive attention in this ongoing effort to combat homelessness, as federal officials, including Scott Turner of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, continue to engage with the city’s initiatives.

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Long-Term Vision

Satterwhite indicated that the 24/7 sidewalk ban could eventually be extended to other parts of the city, contingent on the availability of more shelter resources and increased funding. “The plan is to expand,” he said, outlining how the city will grow its ability to address homelessness as more beds and resources become available. The city will also work with various partners, including METRO, to create “Hubs” where people experiencing homelessness can access services and find temporary housing.

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Controversy and Concerns

The civility ordinance, initially passed in 2001 to reduce homelessness in downtown Houston, has long been controversial. Critics argue that such measures unfairly penalize people for lacking housing. Neighborhoods surrounding downtown have reported an increase in homeless populations, leading to more calls for expanded enforcement of the ordinance. However, advocates for the homeless warn that simply pushing people off the streets without offering adequate resources could exacerbate their struggles.