Wake County has appointed The Bryant Center as the operator for its new low-barrier shelter, Second Street Place. This decision follows a competitive selection process aimed at providing essential services to residents.
Second Street Place is located at 5010 Second Street in Raleigh and offers shelter without common barriers such as proof of sobriety or background checks. It temporarily opened in January 2025 during the winter White Flag season, with The Bryant Center managing operations under Executive Director Vance Haywood.
“The Bryant Center’s proven dedication to serving vulnerable populations makes them the perfect choice to lead operations at Second Street Place,” stated Vickie Adamson from the Wake County Board of Commissioners.
Wake County plans to integrate its Bridge to Home Housing program into the shelter’s services, offering coordinated case management and personalized support from day one. After the 2025/2026 White Flag season, programming will be relocated for renovations that aim to modernize the facility.
Renovations are set to convert the building into a trauma-informed shelter with same-day access to beds and services. Design work should conclude by September 2025, with construction starting in Spring 2026. The upgraded facility is expected to reopen in November 2026.
Vance E. Haywood expressed gratitude for continuing their service partnership with Wake County: “We are honored to continue serving the residents at Second Street Place and grateful for Wake County’s partnership.”
This initiative is part of Wake County’s strategy to reduce unsheltered homelessness by 10% by 2029.
