From June 28 through July 1, more than 35 unhoused Nashville neighbors living in the river camp near Nissan Stadium were safely relocated into Interim Housing and Affordable Gap Loan units. This proactive move was coordinated in response to the elevated fire and safety risks posed by the city's annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration.
The Office of Homeless Services (OHS), in close coordination with the Mayor's Office, Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), and several community partners, led the effort to ensure the safety of individuals residing in the fallout zone near the river.
"On the East Bank, the Fire Marshal's office reviewed and approved the fallout zones with specific safety requirements coordinated with property owners. However, the current encampment in the East Bank area is inside of the fallout zone and includes makeshift structures, mostly constructed from highly combustible materials," Nashville Fire Department Director Chief William Swann said. "Fallout zone requirements exist to protect life and property. These protections are designed to safeguard everyone, regardless of circumstance, from all hazards associated with pyrotechnic activity associated with the fireworks show on 4th of July."
"This effort was unique. It was an emergency, and we responded. Metro's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, dedicated to homelessness, allowed us to move quickly", said April Calvin, Director of the Office of Homeless Services. "Everyone we engaged was ready to go. They want housing and we are committed to making that goal a reality."
The relocated individuals are now receiving ongoing care and resources from OHS and its network of providers, including case management, healthcare access, housing navigation, and transportation assistance. In this year's approved budget, Metro's investment in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) moves us closer to sustainability and long-term housing solutions for our unhoused Nashville neighbors. The Office of Homeless Services will continue working diligently to ensure that every person has access to a safe place and the opportunity to move toward permanent housing.