Buena Creek Navigation Center

CAO: John Conley

Population greater than 50,000

Communities across California continue to face growing homelessness and limited access to temporary housing, and the city of Vista recognized that no single jurisdiction could solve the challenge alone. In response, Vista partnered with the city of Encinitas, Retread Housing Services, and the State of California to establish the Buena Creek Navigation Center, an innovative regional collaboration that provides coordinated shelter, supportive services, and long-term housing solutions. By replacing fragmented service delivery with a shared regional approach, the partnership has created a more efficient and sustainable model for serving residents experiencing homelessness.

The Buena Creek Navigation Center was established through a formal agreement between Vista and Encinitas that shares both resources and responsibilities. Under the partnership, 75% of the center’s beds are reserved for Vista residents and 25% for Encinitas residents, while operating costs are divided proportionally. The cities jointly selected Retread Housing Services to manage daily operations, creating a seamless system that allows both communities to deliver consistent services while maximizing public resources and strengthening regional cooperation.

A key factor in the center’s success has been its innovative funding strategy. Vista secured a $5 million allocation from the State of California to support operations for up to three years, while Encinitas committed approximately $1.7 million through local housing funds. This blended funding approach has allowed the two cities to develop a nearly $6 million regional program without placing an immediate burden on local general funds. The investment reflects a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility, intergovernmental collaboration, and long-term sustainability.

Since opening in March 2024, the 48-bed Buena Creek Navigation Center has operated under a Housing First model that removes barriers preventing individuals from accessing shelter. The center serves individuals, couples, and pet owners while offering comprehensive wraparound services, including case management, housing navigation, employment and life-skills training, medical and dental coordination, nutritious daily meals, and around-the-clock staffing and security. These services focus not only on providing temporary shelter but also on helping residents achieve long-term housing stability.

The program has already produced measurable results that demonstrate its effectiveness. More than 280 individuals have received services, with 87 people successfully transitioning into permanent housing. More than half of all program exits resulted in improved living situations, and an impressive 92% of clients placed into permanent housing remained housed after one year. Additional investments in employment, housing assistance, and health stabilization have further strengthened outcomes while improving accountability and service quality.

The Buena Creek Navigation Center illustrates how local governments can accomplish more through collaboration than they can independently. By combining state support, nonprofit expertise, and regional partnerships, Vista and Encinitas have created a replicable model that improves quality of life, enhances public service delivery, and provides lasting solutions to homelessness. Their success demonstrates the power of coordinated leadership and strategic partnerships to address one of today’s most pressing community challenges.