Soledad, Calif. (KION) -- A new temporary encampment is being prepared for the 18 individuals currently living along the riverbed near the movie theater in Soledad. City officials say the site, located at 990 Los Coches Road, will offer a safer and more supportive environment.
Residents, like Sally Serna, who has lived in the riverbed encampment for over two years, say they've endured harsh conditions, including flooding and poison oak outbreaks.
"It's awesome. You know, it's such a huge weight off our shoulders because it's like every day, we need those things. It's really important, especially right now with the mosquitoes and poison oak everywhere. I got poison oak, and it's hard for everybody here," said Serna.
The city says people will be allowed to start moving into the new site by Thursday. The provisional encampment includes resources such as showers, bathrooms, 24-hour security, and an on-site case manager available eight hours a day during the week.
Beatriz Trujillo, the city's Director of Community and Economic Development, highlighted some of the amenities.
"We got this trailer from the county. It has hot and cold water, a heating system, and a full bathroom with a shower."
Phase 1 of the project has cost the city $200,000, according to Soledad City Manager Megan Hunter. The city is already preparing for Phase 2, which will bring modular units resembling a tiny village within about 90 days. These units will include laundry facilities and give each person their own space.
"There'll be more services, and each person will have their own unit -- or share one with a couple," Hunter said.
While many residents are grateful, there are some concerns about the limited space and how rules will be enforced. Each person will have room for their belongings, and tents will be spaced six inches apart.
There will be no curfew, residents will be allowed to have up to two guests per day, and pets are welcome.
"We were just waiting for it to happen," Serna said.
The new site is designed to house residents for about three months, until the more permanent modular units are ready. The City of Soledad has already distributed moving bins to assist with the transition, though some residents are still asking for more updates on how the move will be coordinated.