The $3 million, 24-bed Preble Street Resource Center's Joe Kreisler Teen Shelter replaces the cramped, outdated and musty smelling Lighthouse Teen Shelter.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) _ A new shelter for homeless teenagers is scheduled to open in Portland next month.

The $3 million, 24-bed Preble Street Resource Center's Joe Kreisler Teen Shelter replaces the cramped, outdated and musty smelling Lighthouse Teen Shelter that had just 16 uncomfortable and pest-plagued beds.

Chris Bicknell, Preble Street's teen services coordinator, says teen homelessness is an increasing problem in Maine, spurred by abuse or addiction.

The Portland Press Herald reports that the new shelter is twice the size of the old shelter. It has a flexible floor plan with more common space as well as private space for studying and counseling. It also has twice the staff.

Bicknell says the goal of the new shelter is either to get kids to return home or find them other permanent housing.