Senator Chan Joins March Against Sheepshead Bay Homeless Shelter

A number of Sheepshead Bay residents are protesting the city’s plans to build a shelter for homeless families in the neighborhood.

The plan for 2134 Coyle St. has sparked significant opposition, with locals particularly frustrated after initial plans to build affordable housing at the site fell through. Protests against the shelter began in March, and have drawn attendees across the political aisle, including politicians, community leaders and everyday residents.

More than a month later, protesters continue to gather on Coyle Street daily, and have camped out on the site to block construction workers and equipment from entering. At least two protesters were arrested and charged with disorderly conduct during a demonstration last week.

This growing momentum culminated in a march along Coney Island Avenue on May 4, where close to 1,000 people — including several local elected officials — took to the streets in opposition to the shelter.

Republican state Sen. Stephen Chan — who represents nearby State Senate District 17 — and mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa led the march. Both took aim at Mayor Eric Adams for moving forward with the homeless shelter plan and vowed to do everything in their power to stop it.