A contentious homeless shelter development in Brooklyn is moving forward, even after accumulating significant fines totaling $22,000 and receiving a partial stop-work order. This progression has further angered local residents who are already distressed about the introduction of another men’s shelter planned nearby.

Construction Violations and Regulatory Response

Incident on Coyle Street

Neighbors reported that construction work has continued on one half of the two-lot property located on Coyle Street in Sheepshead Bay. This occurred while crews on the adjacent section had previously struck an unmarked live gas line earlier this month.

The gas line breach prompted investigators from the city’s Department of Buildings (DOB) to intervene and halt construction activities. Records indicate that the crews lacked necessary permits for excavation at 2134 Coyle Street when the fuel line was damaged on March 11.

One worker claimed the pipe was not marked and did not appear on any existing property maps. The DOB subsequently issued a partial stop-work order covering both plots of land.

Partial Lifting of Restrictions

The DOB later lifted the stop-work order for the adjoining lot located at 2150 Coyle Street. Benjamin Louie, 40, a concerned neighbor, questioned the initial incident, stating, “They fixed it almost immediately, or said they fixed it. Why did they hit a gas line to begin with? They’re not doing things carefully.”

Residents had previously submitted dozens of complaints in an effort to halt the project, which was initially proposed as a family shelter last year. Although neighbors alleged that illegal work persisted despite the order, the DOB reportedly found no evidence supporting these claims.

Community Opposition and Safety Concerns

Proximity to Schools and Businesses

Critics have consistently argued that the site is unsuitable for a family shelter due to its close proximity to several daycare centers along Avenue U, as well as nearby elementary and middle schools. Eddie Ye, 48, expressed frustration, suggesting the project is purely profit-driven.

Ye stated, “We are not against homeless people, but we are against the developer. They are making homeless people into a business. They’re opening these homeless shelters everywhere because it’s big business.”

Local Business Owner Fears

Bona Male, 56, who operates a local electrician’s shop, voiced significant safety concerns regarding the new facility. Male noted, “I have to stay late at work, I don’t feel safe. It’s enough that we have to worry about our safety on the streets of New York, but this is right here.”

Male also questioned the site selection, adding, “There are so many empty lots all over New York. I don’t understand why they have to open something like this in the middle of a neighborhood where people live.”

Developer's Response and Future Outlook

Developer Defends Project Necessity

Westhab, the developer responsible for the shelter, has denied conducting any unauthorized work following the issuance of the stop-work order. A spokesperson emphasized the necessity of the facility in addressing local needs.

The developer stated, “As the city faces record homelessness, our project at 2134 Coyle Street will deliver the only dedicated family shelter within 3.5 miles.” They confirmed they are adhering to all regulations and engaging with the community.

City Hall Confirms Upcoming Opening

City Hall announced on Monday that construction is expected to commence soon, moving forward despite neighborhood anxieties about potential danger. This follows a similar situation in the Upper East Side, where residents fought a women’s shelter that recently received judicial approval.

One worker at the Coyle Street location dismissed local opposition, suggesting the project is inevitable. The worker reportedly told locals, “You don’t like it? What are you going to do, tie yourself to a f–king tree? This isn’t going to stop for anybody.”