Gravesend

Ongoing protest against proposed homeless shelter reaches 100-day milestone

October 25, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff
Share this:

GRAVESEND — OPPONENTS OF A PROPOSED HOMELESS SHELTER ON 86TH ST. have reached the 100-day milestone in their protest, according to a joint statement from two elected officials who have led the effort. Assemblyman William Colton (D-47) and City Councilmember Susan Zhuang (D-43), both of whose districts encompass Bath Beach, Bensonhurst and Gravesend, marked the 100th continuous day of protests at the site of the proposed homeless shelter at 2501 86th Street. They marked the milestone with a rally during which they thanked the protesters, who have been at the site daily since mid-July. About 300 people waved American flags and brandished signs proclaiming their opposition to the planned homeless shelter, on the grounds that they believe it to be a band-aid solution to homelessness that would benefit only the developer, and that it would degrade the community. Assemblyman Colton and Councilmember Zhuang commended the protesters’ tenacity in articulating their message to city officials. Opposition to the plan has been strong and sustained since the city announced last year that it planned to open a homeless shelter at that site for 150 single men, many of whom struggle with addiction or mental health issues. Numerous prior protests have drawn thousands of protesters, with a petition garnering more than 53,000 signatures.

Area residents held daily vigil relays to monitor the developer’s actions. Local merchants have also supported the ongoing protests, with one even providing 100 lunches daily to volunteers staying present at the site.

✰✰✰

 





Leave a Comment


Leave a Comment