Around the country there are constant conversations of cities integrating what is known as “hostile architecture,” and Reno is no exception. Hostile architecture is an urban-design strategy used to purposely restrict behavior and often targets those that use public spaces more often than others, specifically the unhoused.
Many cities use hostile architecture as a way to drive the homeless from sleeping on benches or sitting in certain areas.
There are many forms of hostile architecture around the country from spikes to segmented benches and so much more. Reno specifically, really likes segmented or uncomfortable benches which can be found throughout downtown.
What people often seem to forget is that the homeless community within cities are still people. Real human beings who sometimes have no choice.
People often forget all it takes is one layoff, one increase in rent, one landlord to let you go before you find yourself homeless as well.
Research says over 50% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. That just shows how fragile things can be in our lives. Instead of spending money on hostile, blatantly obvious creations to deter the homeless we should be investing resources into how to help them.
These people are mothers, fathers, people with degrees, family members - all who live complex lives. Deterring these people from existing in certain places to try to keep a certain “aesthetic” within the city should be questioned.