Saratoga County has finalized the purchase of a 1.4-acre property on Ballston Avenue in Saratoga Springs to establish a permanent Code Blue shelter. The county bought the land for approximately $3 million, marking a significant step in its efforts to address homelessness in the area. The shelter will be built and operated by Shelters of Saratoga, which currently runs a temporary Code Blue shelter in the county.

The new site is strategically located near essential services, including the Saratoga County Mental Health facility, RISE Housing and Support Services, and AIM Services. It is also accessible via a bus line, making it convenient for those in need of additional support. The shelter will operate during the winter months when a Code Blue alert is issued, as required by New York State law. This occurs when temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chill for at least two consecutive hours.

While the decision has been met with some local opposition due to concerns about neighborhood impact, county officials emphasize the importance of providing a stable and efficient shelter solution. Phil Barrett, chairman of the county’s Board of Supervisors, stated that the purchase allows the county to move forward with planning and budgeting for the state-mandated Code Blue program.

According to CBS6 Albany, the shelter's location was chosen for its proximity to essential services and public transportation. News10 reports that the site planning process will now begin, with the goal of creating a comprehensive and sustainable solution to homelessness in Saratoga County.

The Times Union notes that the permanent shelter will provide more stability and efficiency in offering shelter during harsh winter weather, addressing a longstanding challenge for Shelters of Saratoga in finding suitable temporary locations each year.