Proposed shelter conversion sparks mixed reactions in Ditmas Park community
The shelter would be operated by Project Renewal in partnership with the city’s Department of Social Services.
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A Red Roof Inn that has operated as a family hotel for over a year may soon undergo a major transformation. The site is being considered for conversion into a 140-bed shelter for adult men, a proposal that is drawing both support and concern from nearby residents.
The shelter would be operated by Project Renewal in partnership with the city’s Department of Social Services. According to officials, the facility would provide not only housing, but also “case management, independent living and life skills workshops, and supports in finding and securing employment."
Some community members see the plan as a necessary and compassionate step.
“Why wouldn’t it be a good thing to help the homeless?” asked one resident. “Rent is already sky high, so why not help the people who need it - especially in a predominantly Black neighborhood?”
Others, however, express uncertainty about the impact the shelter could have. While acknowledging the need for housing, some residents say they are wary of potential risks.
“It’s not all men that have a bad reputation,” another resident said. “Some may just need somewhere to stay, but there could also be some who are not good.”
City officials say the shelter would include strict safety measures, including 24/7 monitoring, controlled access and security cameras. Still, some neighbors argue those precautions may not be enough. The proposed site is located near five schools, and residents point to recent crime data - 122 reported incidents in the neighborhood last month, as a cause for concern.
“I feel like it’s going to be bad for the neighborhood,” one local said. “There’s already so much violence. This is just going to add to everything that’s going on. It scares me a little bit.”
Community Board 14 has announced a public hearing where residents can voice their opinions and concerns. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, at the Kings Theatre.
Despite the uncertainty, some residents are trying to remain hopeful.
“I have mixed feelings,” one community member said. “It’s a little concerning, a little nerve-wracking - but maybe we just have to be optimistic about it.”
Ahead of the hearing, the Department of Social Services says it remains committed to maintaining open communication with the community while upholding the city’s responsibility to provide safe shelter and humane care for those in need. They add that “a secure and safe environment is critical to the success of any program facility - and DSS-DHS is committed to prioritizing the safety of clients, staff, and community members."
