As downtown residents, most of us are familiar with the Downtown Tucson Partnership (DTP). Their mission statement is: To be the catalyst for making Downtown Tucson the place people want to live, work, and play; where new ideas happen; and that is the economic development and cultural epicenter of the region. The ability to attract businesses and customers is an essential component.
One part of this effort is to minimize unpleasant experiences for downtown visitors. Unfortunately our large homeless population is often part of unpleasant experiences. DTP has taken a number of steps to discourage homeless people from making downtown public areas their home. One example is cleaning pavements in areas where people congregate overnight. The use of machinery and water spray makes the areas uncomfortable places to sleep.
One consequence of these steps is that homeless people move into residential areas and parks nearby. We see the increased homeless population in Armory Park on a daily basis. Also, even though these people don’t fit easily into the mainstream of society, they still deserve humane treatment.
DTP also recognizes these things so they have created a program labeled dtp connects. With this effort, DTP is trying to connect homeless individuals with the many programs which offer help.
You may want to get some of these cards to share with a homeless neighbor or to inform yourself. To learn more, go to the DTP site at https://www.downtowntucson.org/clean-and-safe/dtp-connects/. This contact information may also be helpful:
Security Ambassadors (520) 940-1038
Maintenance Ambassadors (520) 940-0806
The Downtown Tucson Partnership is located at 100 N. Stone, Suite 101, Tucson, Arizona 85701. For questions and general information, please call (520) 268-9030.
Armory Park Neighborhood Association 