AUSTIN (KXAN) — The city of Austin’s Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) hopes to acquire a property for a new housing navigation center in south Austin, a Wednesday news release said.
The office is seeking public input on the potential site to determine how the center can serve as a safe space for those experiencing housing instability or homelessness.
The site located at 2401 South Interstate 35 Frontage Road off Oltorf Street is currently a gaming lounge. Asking for public opinions on the location will help HSO in determining how to best repurpose the site for a “safe and supportive center for households at risk or experiencing homelessness,” the release said. Crime intervention would also be implemented for safety.
“We want to hear directly from stakeholders in the neighborhood, and their feedback will guide how we move forward,” said David Gray, HSO director. To provide feedback, he said you can email the city at homeless.input@austintexas.gov.
The housing navigation center would serve as a hub for intake, referrals and access to critical services. According to the release, the location will also open opportunities to collaborate with nearby partners in hopes to reduce the amount of time people spend on the streets, support stability during the housing process and ensure clients remain connected to case management and supportive services.
Council Member José Velásquez encouraged residents to share feedback and participate in upcoming engagement opportunities because “insights will help shape the direction of this project.”
According to the release, Austin City Council is expected to vote on the property acquisitions in early October. After council action, a lease agreement would be developed while renovation and site enhancements move forward, the release added.
If HSO acquires the site, the navigation center would be expected to open in spring 2026.
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