Reimagining Old Hotels: A Viable Solution for the Homeless and Quarantine

Introduction

The question of repurposing old hotels for social causes, such as quarantine facilities or housing for the homeless, has gained significant traction amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the reasons behind the reluctance of the government to engage in such initiatives, despite the positive potential such conversions can offer.

The Case of Palmer Court, Salt Lake City

One notable example is the Palmer Court in Salt Lake City, Utah. This former Holiday Inn was repurposed through a generous grant from the federal government, Utah State government, and local charitable organizations and churches to serve The Road Home, a non-profit organization that houses and rehabilitates the homeless and nomadic Americans. This initiative presents a compelling model for repurposing old hotels to address pressing social issues.

Commercial Considerations and Balancing Act

While business-minded individuals may argue that reactivating old hotels is necessary for long-term construction or road work crews, the reality is more complex. These hotels often serve non-local contractors during such projects. Therefore, taking rooms off the market needs to be well-balanced with ensuring local businesses can continue to function.

Another argument is that some properties are currently being repurposed to house higher functioning homeless individuals, facilitated by Covid-related funding. However, hotels still have staff to maintain cleanliness, which can be challenging in the long term.

Conversion Challenges and Feasibilities

Several cities have already converted old hotels into housing for the homeless, showcasing the viability of such initiatives. However, these conversions are not without challenges. According to a relevant law, the federal government must seriously consider converting unneeded buildings into housing for the homeless before disposal. This requires extensive renovations to meet current building codes and ADA Act requirements, including installing fire sprinkler systems and updating electrical capacity.

Furthermore, these converted buildings need to be accessible to essential services such as transportation, grocery stores, health clinics, and other amenities. Making such changes is a complex and resource-intensive process, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive planning and collaboration between public and private sectors.

Political Realities and Economic Pressures

The reluctance of the government, particularly under conservative administrations, to engage in such initiatives can be attributed to several factors. For example, Donald Trump, infamous for his business ventures, has a track record of prioritizing private sector gains. Moreover, the Republican party often operates on a fear-based platform, which can lead to resistance in policies that might empower homeless individuals. The Republican stance often aligns with the interests of business owners and property developers, and they may view such conversions as economic threats rather than social benefits.

It's important to note that fixing up old hotels for the homeless and quarantine purposes can present economic opportunities. Such conversions can serve as temporary or long-term housing solutions, providing much-needed housing for those in need. Additionally, these projects can boost local economies by creating jobs and stimulating demand for services.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges and political reservations, repurposing old hotels for homeless housing and quarantine facilities offers a practical and effective solution. Initiatives like the Palmer Court model can serve as a blueprint for similar projects, provided that there is a willingness to collaborate, ideate, and implement comprehensive solutions. As governments and communities navigate these issues, it is crucial to recognize the diverse needs of the population and the potential for mutually beneficial solutions.