San Jose leaders have decided to disband the city's largest homeless encampment at Columbus Park, which has become overrun with tents and RVs. The City Council's unanimous approval aims to revitalize the area into soccer fields, basketball courts, and more, scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2027. Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized the importance of equitable access to quality public spaces for working families and highlighted the park's historical significance in community sports. Despite previous delays due to site complexities and homelessness, a significant investment of $19.5 million will be made to restore the park's usability.
"This is supposed to be a public park—a shared space for families, kids and seniors—but you wouldn't know it by looking at it today," said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.
"Restoring it is about equity, ensuring that working families in this part of the city have access to the same quality of public space as anywhere else today."
"The city’s project delays are attributed to the site’s complexity, lack of staffing, agency coordination, and the homelessness crisis that has increasingly affected public spaces."
"Columbus Park was a hub for youth sports, a rare source of outdoor recreation and a historically underserved area, making its revitalization essential for community equity."
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