In a continuing effort to partner with local agencies to mitigate the impacts of homelessness in our community the City of Asheville will help fund Homeward Bound’s acquisition of the Days Inn on Tunnel Road for permanent supportive housing for our homeless population.
At their July 27 meeting, Asheville City Council approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a $2 million grant agreement for the purchase using money from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
Homeward Bound intends to acquire the Days Inn, 201 Tunnel Road, with the goal of converting the existing motel through adaptive reuse to create 85 affordable housing rental units for people experiencing chronic homelessness. The facility would also include office space for case managers, program managers, clinical staff, a permanent supportive housing director, and other agency staff.
These housing units will be targeted to special needs and underserved populations. This has been identified as a critical strategy in ending chronic homelessness and a key component of the Continuum of Care, providing an exit from homelessness for people with the most complex needs.
The City of Asheville is one of several donors being asked to assist Homeward Bound with this property purchase. Homeward Bound is also requesting $2 million in funding from Buncombe County and Dogwood Health Trust.
Homeward Bound anticipates closing on the property on or around August 14. The grant of City funds will be conditional upon the closing of the property.
This action is in keeping with the City Council goals of an equitable and diverse community; a well-planned and livable community; and quality affordable housing.
To read a copy of the staff report to Council, visit this link.