In 2021, the spot initially designated for a new Men’s Central Jail has been repurposed to become a safe housing complex that caters to the needs of homeless individuals, specifically their housing, mental health, and behavioral needs.
The initiative was spearheaded by Hilda L. Solis, Los Angeles County Supervisor, in September 2020. Solis explained that this is in line with the county’s goal to prioritize care over-incarceration, hence the shift to a Care First, Jail Last model. The county is pleased with this achievement and its contribution to reimagining Los Angeles County.
Image from: LivinSpaces
Solis teamed up with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works to choose Bernards, a locally-owned construction management company, and NAC Architecture, a local design firm, to build the HSCFV campus. The campus sits on four acres of land that were previously parking lots near Union Station, which is the city’s main public transportation hub.
Image from: LivinSpaces
The shipping container homes in Los Angeles for the homeless are 5,946 sqm and were built in only six months. There are 232 housing units and a common building that includes a commercial kitchen, dining area, laundry facilities, and administrative spaces. Additionally, there are landscaped courtyards, a dog park, and parking spots for staff and residents.
The team modified the cargo containers for the people living by adding large windows and insulating the walls and ceilings. Two living units exist in each container, measuring 12.5 sqm. The apartments come furnished with beds, microwaves, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
Image from: LivinSpaces
Image from: LivinSpaces
In order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and increase residents’ independence, each unit in the complex has its own heating and ventilation system. The complex opened in April 2021 and reached full occupancy the following month, with the goal of decreasing the estimated 60,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in the Los Angeles area.
Image from: LivinSpaces
The Hilda L. Solis Care First Village project cost has been reduced from $57 million to $48 million, which is $3 million less than the federal Coronavirus relief funding via the CARES Act provided. This was possible due to the successful use of shipping containers and prefabricated structures. This building technique may be used more frequently in affordable housing projects across the country in the future.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Shipping container homes for the homeless in Los Angeles are affordable housing solutions created by repurposing shipping containers. These containers are transformed into small, compact living spaces that provide shelter and basic amenities for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Shipping container homes offer a viable option for addressing homelessness in Los Angeles due to several reasons. They are relatively quick and cost-effective to construct compared to traditional housing. Additionally, they can be easily relocated and scaled to accommodate different needs, providing flexibility in responding to homelessness challenges.
Yes, shipping container homes can be designed to offer safety and comfort for the homeless. With proper insulation, ventilation, and access to utilities, these homes can provide adequate protection from weather conditions and a livable environment. They can also incorporate communal spaces and supportive services to foster a sense of community and well-being.
Transforming shipping containers into homes benefits the homeless population in multiple ways. It provides them with stable and secure housing, helping to break the cycle of homelessness. These homes can also offer a sense of dignity, privacy, and autonomy, improving overall well-being and facilitating access to essential services and resources.
In Los Angeles, several organizations and initiatives are working towards implementing shipping container homes for the homeless. Non-profit organizations, government agencies, and community collaborations are involved in designing, constructing, and managing these projects. They often partner with architects, developers, and social service providers to ensure the successful implementation and support of shipping container homes as a solution to homelessness.
