Efforts to tackle rising homelessness in Hartford are gaining momentum, but they are also facing significant criticism from community leaders. The city is considering a proposal that would modify existing zoning restrictions, potentially allowing shelters to operate in areas currently designated for lower-density mixed-use development. This change aims to facilitate the relocation of shelters, which have struggled to find suitable locations amid increasing homelessness.
For over three years, the South Park Inn shelter, a longstanding fixture on Main Street since 1984, has sought a new site to consolidate its services and move beyond its current dormitory-style setup. As homelessness rates continue to rise, the need for effective solutions has become urgent. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the United States reached a record high of 771,480 in 2024, an 18% increase from the previous year.
Hartford’s proposal aims to ease restrictions that limit shelters to industrial zones, which many shelter operators argue are poorly located in relation to essential services such as public transportation and grocery stores. “Being in an industrial zone means limited transportation and access to food,” said Theresa Nicholson, executive director of South Park Inn. She emphasized that the current zoning rules discriminate against vulnerable populations, making it difficult for them to access necessary resources.
The city is exploring options to allow shelters in areas around major thoroughfares, including Farmington Avenue and Washington Street. While this would not automatically permit shelters in these zones, it would allow shelter operators to apply for a variance from the city’s zoning board of appeals. Most of Hartford’s existing shelters were established before current zoning regulations, meaning they must now adapt to comply with new rules if they wish to relocate.
Despite the potential benefits of the proposal, it has encountered backlash from leaders of several neighborhood revitalization zones. The Asylum Hill Neighborhood Association, for example, has expressed concerns about not being adequately involved in the decision-making process. In a letter to the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission, David MacDonald, executive director of the association, argued for the necessity of neighborhood review and approval for proposed housing developments, including shelters. Asylum Hill already has several supportive housing sites and one temporary shelter, leading residents to worry about further concentration of such facilities.
The city has decided to withdraw its initial proposal for further study, with plans for it to be reconsidered in February 2025. Officials note that the proposal is not directed at any specific shelter but acknowledges the challenges of balancing community input with the urgent need for additional shelter space. “We have to do it in a way that values the input of neighborhoods, but that allows for shelter space to be created in the city that’s dignified,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam.
The mayor, who lives in the Frog Hollow neighborhood, highlighted the need for community-oriented solutions. He stated, “I believe we can construct shelters that respect the fabric of our neighborhoods.” While he declined to disclose specific properties under consideration, he emphasized the importance of finding suitable locations.
Despite these ongoing discussions, the demand for shelter beds in Hartford remains high. In 2024, there were 334 year-round shelter beds available, a slight decrease from 348 the previous year. As the city prepares for the winter months, the number of warming center beds is set to increase from 96 to 133 in December, reflecting the growing need for emergency shelter. The city has allocated $276,000 for this service in the current fiscal year, up from $230,000 the previous year.
Nicholson noted that South Park Inn has seen a 25% increase in demand for beds, indicating a pressing need for more shelter options. “Our program is consistently full,” she stated, underscoring the ongoing struggle to meet the needs of those experiencing homelessness.
The challenges of relocating shelters are evident. Previous attempts, such as the 2022 proposal to move South Park Inn to Homestead Avenue, faced strong neighborhood opposition due to concerns about the impact on local economic revitalization efforts. As city officials work to navigate these complex issues, they recognize the human element at play. “The solution is going to be highly technical, but it’s all within a very human context of those that need the services,” said Jeff Auker, Hartford’s director of development services.
As Hartford grapples with the homelessness crisis, the balance between community concerns and the need for adequate shelter will remain a contentious topic. The city’s commitment to finding solutions that respect both the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and the concerns of local residents will be crucial in shaping future policy.
