I want to voice concerns about the proposed First Step low-income housing complex on 800 South 300 East in Central City, which already has six similar complexes, as well as a homeless shelter, methadone clinic and a behavioral health clinic within a three-block radius. While I fully support initiatives to provide affordable housing, the decision to cluster these developments in one area risks perpetuating socioeconomic residential segregation, a trend that undermines the very goals of equitable urban planning.
Concentrating low-income housing in one neighborhood creates a cycle of inequality that is difficult to break. Overburdened infrastructure, limited access to diverse economic opportunities, and underfunded schools often become hallmarks of such areas. Instead of fostering community integration, we risk isolating residents and creating pockets of poverty that are harder to uplift over time. Studies show that mixed-income neighborhoods lead to better outcomes for residents, including improved education, health, and employment opportunities. Why then should we continue to segregate affordable housing into already oversaturated areas?
Our Central City neighborhood has proudly done its part to support low-income housing initiatives, but the addition of another complex will strain resources further, risking the quality of life for everyone — both current residents and future tenants of the proposed complex. It’s time to prioritize balanced development across the city. Spreading affordable housing more evenly ensures every community can share in the responsibility and the benefits of supporting these projects.
I urge Salt Lake City to consider alternative locations for this complex, allowing our Central City to recover from years of concentrated development. This is not about opposition to affordable housing — it’s about ensuring fairness, equity, and sustainable urban growth for all.
The City Council will vote on this matter sometime in the next couple of months. A vote to approve another facility such as this in an area that is oversaturated with similar facilities will impact our Central City neighborhood for decades and continue a downward trend for the area.
Travis Starley, Salt Lake City
