Short-term shelter
The City of Loveland is adding 20 overnight spaces using FEMA-grade tents onsite behind the Loveland Resource Center, increasing capacity to 42 overnight spaces. Work has begun and the tents will be ready by end of day Friday, Dec. 12. Motorists will see a single lane closure on Lincoln Avenue south of 1st Street today to allow City vehicles into the space for installation.
The tents include liners to keep temperatures steady, safe heating solutions developed in coordination with Loveland Fire Rescue Authority, and cameras for added security. The City was able to repurpose current supplies and resources, including the tents, to minimize costs.
The LRC is operating as an overnight shelter under a temporary use permit that expires March 15.
Long-term strategy
Loveland is the only city in Colorado that directly owns the property and runs daily and overnight shelter operations. The operation of a shelter often involves a partnership with non-profit service providers to ensure a comprehensive homeless response system. The City can no longer lead this effort alone, but we remain committed to being a strong partner. Since September, we’ve been working with nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, residents, and medical providers to build a community-driven plan that focuses on prevention, including affordable housing.
To support this, the City has begun exploring options by issuing an RFP for emergency shelter services, seeking a nonprofit or provider to operate a 24/7 Resource Center and Overnight Shelter. Because the current LRC building is not suitable for long-term use, we are also considering purchasing a facility that can provide both day services and overnight shelter under one roof for use by an experienced operator.
Budget
The City continues to administer and examine costs associated with operating emergency overnight shelter at the LRC. The next public update will include more details.
Additional Resources
Visit lovgov.org/homelessness for updated FAQs and evolving information. While there is no set timeline for a long-term strategy, the public will be notified as updates become available.
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