Long Beach homeless services hub operating out of tents after repair delays

Long Beach’s primary homeless services center is operating out of temporary tents after a repair project initially expected to take two weeks expanded into a months-long disruption.

City officials closed the multi-service center to complete roof and ventilation upgrades. However, once work began, crews discovered additional storm-related damage, including water intrusion that affected walls and carpeting.

The multi-service center serves as the city’s main access point for people experiencing homelessness, providing connections to housing assistance, case management and other services.

With the building under repair, services have been relocated to tents on-site. City officials say operations are continuing, though the temporary setup presents logistical challenges.

The project was initially described as a short-term repair. However, the discovery of additional damage increased both the scope and expected cost of the work.

The situation comes as the city continues to invest in homelessness programs, with spending and project oversight drawing increased attention in recent years.

Our recent investigation found that the city paid millions of dollars to a contractor overseeing homeless services, and a recent, ongoing audit has discovered “serious” billing concerns and questions whether the city got the services it paid the provider. 

Separately, the Homeless Services Bureau has faced criticism over other initiatives.

In 2025, the city spent approximately $2.9 million on 33 tiny home units that were not deployed after officials were unable to secure a location for them.

In 2024, shelter workers raised concerns about staffing support and conditions. More than 60 people have died from various causes while staying in Long Beach shelters since 2021, according to available data.

Despite ongoing efforts, homelessness in Long Beach has increased in recent years.

According to the city’s Point-in-Time counts, the number of people experiencing homelessness has risen by more than 76% since 2020. By comparison, Los Angeles reported a smaller increase over the same period, while Oakland, a similarly sized city, also saw a lower rate of growth.

Long Beach recorded a slight decrease of about 2% in 2024, followed by an increase of roughly 6.5% the following year.

The extended closure of the city’s main service hub adds to ongoing questions about infrastructure planning, project management and oversight within Long Beach’s homelessness response system.

City officials have not announced a revised completion date beyond the current estimate of several more months.