Protests Intensify, Arrests Occur Over Brooklyn Homeless Shelter

Protests have intensified in Sheepshead Bay over the planned construction of a transitional homeless shelter for families with children at 2134 Coyle Street, where several arrests were made following confrontations with police. Many residents and protesters claim they were originally promised affordable housing at the site and accuse the city of a 'bait and switch,' expressing concerns about the shelter's proximity to local schools and the lack of active construction permits. City officials and the Department of Homeless Services maintain that the shelter plan was announced over a year ago and defend the project, emphasizing that all protocols have been followed. The developer, Westhab, asserts that it had no involvement in the original affordable housing proposal and has been transparent since taking over. Despite a recent court ruling preventing opponents from blocking access to the site, community members continue to protest, citing safety and quality-of-life worries. Organizers expect demonstrations to persist as construction begins.