Homeless shelter set to come to Sheepshead Bay; residents and local leaders say 'no'
Residents say the neighborhood is quiet and family-orientated, with many schools in the area. They say a shelter would pose a threat to the safety of the community.
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The Sheepshead Bay community is up in arms over a homeless shelter set to be built in their neighborhood, which at first was expected to be affordable housing.
Local leaders say 2134 Coyle Ave. was supposed to be 119 residential units with commercial space. It is now set to be a homeless shelter.
Council member Inna Vernikov said in a statement:
“The inception of this homeless shelter was an unacceptable bait and switch. The Council voted for housing to be built on this lot, the community board did as well. For the plans to be completely changed with no input from the community or its representatives sets a dangerous precedent — are we to think that the New York City government will not honor the duly passed laws in its own body? I am disappointed in the way this entire situation was handled and will stand with concerned residents in their fight against this shelter!”
Residents say the neighborhood is quiet and family-orientated, with many schools in the area. They say a shelter would pose a threat to the safety of the community.
A city website shows the shelter will be a family residence with 175 units, although these details have not been confirmed.
A rally against the shelter is set for 6 p.m., Tuesday outside the site and another one 2134 Coyle Ave.
