City allocates $10M for elevator upgrades in supportive housing initiatives

San Francisco County has taken a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of supportive housing, with the approval of a $62.4 million budget aimed at improving services and wages for frontline staff. This funding, part of the FY 23-24 city budget, includes $10 million earmarked for modernizing elevators in single room occupancy (SRO) buildings, alongside $5 million for capital repairs.

The Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH) has been actively prioritizing wage equity and service enhancements, responding to strong advocacy from the board. Recent initiatives include implementing housing quality inspections across the local portfolio to ensure high standards in supportive housing.

With over 13,300 units of supportive housing in San Francisco, the city is making strides in reducing vacancy rates, currently at 7.1%, just shy of their 7% goal. The supportive housing portfolio consists of various types, including site-based supportive housing, scattered site permanent housing, and rapid rehousing options.

In the coming months, HSH anticipates announcing significant project funding for the elevator modernization initiative, which will impact 38 eligible SRO buildings. These improvements are crucial as they address the needs of vulnerable populations living in supportive housing, ensuring better living conditions and access to essential services.