The Alachua County Commission
approved the purchase of the former Budget Inn in February 2021 and the former
Scottish Inn in December 2023 as part of a coordinated, communitywide response
to homelessness that prioritizes individuals based on vulnerability and need.
These former motels have since been transformed into safe, stable housing for
some of the county’s most vulnerable residents. These adaptive reuse projects
reflect a growing nationwide best practice of repurposing motel properties into
permanent housing to expand access to affordable housing and reduce
homelessness.
East Tumblin Creek, previously Budget Inn, is located along SW 13th Street in
Gainesville and underwent a $5 million renovation utilizing CDBG-CV grant
funding. It includes 36 one-bedroom units, each with a kitchen, bathroom, and
living space.
Forest Edge, previously Scottish Inn, is located next to East Tumblin
Creek and was redeveloped through a $5.2 million ERAP grant. It includes 31
efficiency units with kitchenettes, bathrooms and living spaces.
Amenities include a community
center, a computer lab, library resources, and laundry facilities.
Referrals for tenancy of these
private residences will be coordinated through the Homeless Continuum of Care
Coordinated Entry System to prioritize those with the greatest needs. Housing
strategies include rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, housing
choice vouchers and Veterans Administration supportive housing, along with
services such as rental assistance, home visits, counseling, case management,
advocacy, benefit coordination and financial budgeting support.
