Public Transit Access to Chesapeake Cares Resource Center

Advocated for adding a bus stop in front of the Chesapeake Cares Resource Center to help unhoused and vulnerable citizens access services safely.

Urged council to take action on establishing a bus stop near the resource center after a year of advocating without progress.

Shared personal observations of vulnerable residents walking dangerous, sidewalk-free roads to reach the resource center.

Reported high traffic volumes and heavy truck counts on Smith Avenue, emphasizing safety risks for pedestrians walking to the center.

Stressed that reliable transportation is essential for homeless individuals seeking housing, healthcare, and employment services.

Highlighted the mobility challenges faced by resource center guests, many of whom use canes or walkers and struggle to walk long distances.

Shared a poignant story of an elderly woman struggling with severe medical edema walking down Smith Avenue to the center.

Emphasized that homelessness can affect anyone and urged council to provide safe, reliable transit access to the resource center.

Explained how current transportation barriers place an excessive burden on case managers who must drive clients in vans.

Contrasted the lack of transit infrastructure at the resource center with other city facilities and highlighted heavy truck traffic.

Asked council to commit to installing a bus stop and sidewalks at Stepping Stone Square.

Shared her personal family experience with her son's struggles with schizophrenia and homelessness, urging council to support vulnerable populations.