Things to Know About Loveland Colorado’s New Homeless Shelter

Loveland's temporary homeless shelter is beginning operation on April 12, 2023. Located on South Railroad, the idea of the shelter has upset many Lovelanders, but it will be there, regardless.

By having this shelter/facility, the city will be able to prohibit any unlawful campsites, as there is now a place for the homeless to go. Loveland had seen many fires (including one that caused the Loveland Museum to catch fire) and the destruction of natural areas, before shutting down 117 camps that were on public lands. I think it can be said that there is no one "perfect" place for a facility like this, but the city looked at many factors in choosing this spot.

The facility is billed as being "Long-term temporary." which is way to say "a while, but not forever."  It is now Loveland's main overnight shelter, just north of Field #6 of Barnes Softball Complex and just east of Railroad Avenue. The facility is made up of Humanitarian tents and several modular buildings.

HOW MANY TENTS?

In the end (after phase two is complete) there should be 15 temperature-controlled tents. The facility will begin with 10 tents.

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HOW MANY BEDS TO EACH TENT?

There are five beds per tent; in the end, the facility could hold 75 people. The latest figures show that about 67 people used the previous overnight shelter in March of 2023.

DOES THE FACILITY HAVE A NAME?

They are calling it the SRF: The South Railroad Facility, being located at 300 South Railroad. They've put up a couple of big signs (like the above) with the address.

DOES THE FACILITY HAVE BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS?

There are two modular buildings that have two bathrooms each (four total,) and another building with three showers. The site also has a modular building for staff.

WHAT WILL THE FACILITY'S HOURS BE?

The SRF will be open from 7 p.m. until 9 a.m. The Loveland Resource Center will become more focused on helping those experiencing homelessness with access to resources and day services such as laundry, mail, locker storage, and access to partner agencies that can assist with housing, locating employment, and obtaining needed documents. The Loveland Resource Center will also be an "overflow" shelter if needed.

IS THERE AN AGE RESTRICTION?

The facility will be for those 18+ who are experiencing homelessness.

WHAT ABOUT PETS?

The city states, that there will be a "Pet Relief Area."

WHAT KIND OF SECURITY WILL THERE BE?

Security includes video cameras in open areas and tents, 24/7. A security fence goes around the facility, as well.

The City of Loveland notes that the project did take longer to become operational, due to extreme weather, chain supply issues, and the time it took to train personnel. They urge people to stay up to date on the city's handling of homelessness issues online.