Polish Hill residents of Pittsburgh are divided over a city‑approved homeless shelter planned for a six‑story building on Bigelow Boulevard. The Allegheny County Department of Human Services says the facility will accommodate 80 to 100 individuals each night, with a peak capacity of about 150.
Support and concerns from the community
Local business owner Patrick Whelan, who runs Snaggletooth tattoo shop, voiced support, saying the shelter is a good thing for helping homeless people despite some flyers being defaced. “I think it’s a good thing to help homeless people,” he said.
Other residents, however, voiced concerns about potential crime and gatherings near the site, though they declined to be identified on camera.
Security and staffing plans
Allegheny County Human Services Director Alex Jutca addressed these worries, noting that about 25 staff members, including roughly half a dozen security personnel, will be on site. The department has a strong relationship with Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Zone 2, which will have responsibility for the area. Regular meetings with the Polish Hill Civic Association and the police are planned.
Security measures will include wand scans of client belongings, inspection of bags and suitcases, and the requirement that clients surrender prohibited items during their stay.
Operational details
The shelter is slated to operate from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m., with the possibility of expanding to 24‑hour service during extreme weather such as snowstorms. The zoning board has a 45‑day window to decide once all required materials are submitted by the Department of Human Services.
As the debate continues, the community watches closely to see how the shelter will impact both the homeless population and the neighborhood’s sense of safety.
Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.
