AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The Salvation Army plans to establish a new Center of Hope shelter on Hale Street, just opposite the fairgrounds. However, some residents nearby believe it may not be the most suitable location.

“I think there should be more development here than just a new homeless shelter. We need shops. There are no grocery stores in our area. It’s lacking,” expressed Miyoko Rhodes.

The Salvation Army’s existing shelter dates back to the 70’s, so a new one is in order.

Commissioner Jordan Johnson is the commission’s  leading advocate for the homeless and represents the district where the new one is being proposed.

“While there is space available for day centers and overnight shelters, the persistent question is whether this is the ideal site. Our neighborhood not only includes May Park, but is also close to the fairgrounds,” stated Commissioner Johnson.

May Park is a block away from the shelter site, and that is raising concerns for neighbors.

A group of citizens in the Olde Town neighborhood are writing commissioners saying while they support compassionate services for the unhoused, this specific location raises serious concerns for safety, access, and community impact.

“They should put it more up in the city where they can have more resources. They keep saying by May Park. There’s nothing by May Park. Speaking of May Park, May Park needs to be better,” said Rhodes.

“That is an area folks have spent a lot time investing their life savings into, and they have valid concerns about what a shelter in their backyards could mean from them,” said Johnson.

Commissioners are scheduled to hear from Olde Town residents at their meeting on Tuesday.

The residents support the idea of a new shelter but believe the Hale Street site is not a good home for it.