A new single men’s migrant shelter is set to open in Mott Haven, sparking concerns from residents and community leaders.
The shelter, located in a building off Bruckner Boulevard, will have a capacity of 2,200 beds. The mayor's office has not disclosed the exact address for what it says are "safety reasons." The site is under construction and expected to open at the end of next month.
Council Member Diana Ayala acknowledged the challenges of housing so many individuals but emphasized the shelter is temporary.
“It’ll shut down when the need is no longer there,” she told News 12 Lindsay Tanney.
Community leaders say the neighborhood is already oversaturated with shelters. They expressed concerns about safety and nearby schools.
The men staying at the shelter will adhere to the city’s 30-day limit for shelter stays and must reapply for housing after that.
This comes as the city is closing other large shelters, including those on Randall’s Island and Floyd Bennett Field.
Some Mott Haven residents argue that additional shelters shouldn’t be concentrated in their community.