Though groundbreaking is at least a month away, the city of Fort Smith recently issued a building permit for $5.57 million in new construction at 816 S. Sixth Street, the future sight of the Next Step Neighborhood. The new facility at 816 S. Sixth St. will be for individuals who do not qualify for those homes but need housing. There will be male units, female units and a few couple units. Because residents will not be able to pay rent, Next Step will need to fund the operation of the units. The Next Step Day Room opened in 2002 at 123 N. Sixth St. to provide daytime shelter for the homeless.