Many area residents are applauding on social media a plan by the City of Toronto to open a massive Municipal Shelter at 2950 and 2970 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

The acquisition of the former Bi Way and vacant office building site by the City has been met with outrage and skepticism by some groups, including some residents and the Lake Shore Village BIA, who are calling for a public hearing into the issue.

The acquisition was adopted on July 7 by the General Government and Licensing Committee and will be considered by City Council on Tuesday July 28.

Natasha Jansen is pleased more spaces are available to help those in need.

“Hopefully more long term solutions towards getting people housed are also on the way,” she wrote on the South Etobicoke Community Group.

“We as a community should support this and not make marginalized populations feel that they are dirty, invisible or not tolerated,” says Nicole Byng.

“More shelters are needed as all are full,” Nikki Mackie explains. “It sucks when you need help and have no help no one wants to sleep on the streets.”

Marcus R Tnt is asking why the City doesn’t turn older schools that cannot handle the ‘populations in the area in centres for people trying to get back on their feet.’

“I’m all for shelters but push it into Port Credit a bit and mix everyone into one big melting pot,” notes Candace Parisi. “There are already tons of housing on Tenth St.”

Well-known area realtor Graham Rowlands says the City chose the best location for a shelter since the Toronto Food Bank, LAMP, Women’s Habitat, Salvation Army (Long Branch) and Haven on the Queensway are nearby and public transit is available.

If the shelter is approved by City Council, upgrade work will begin next year with the facility opening in 2022.

The City said the two properties ‘create a large-sized property that allows flexibility in responding to changes in shelter standards and demand as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.’

The shelter will serve equity-seeking groups such as seniors, people with disabilities, newcomers, individuals with mental health issues, the working poor, Indigenous people, people who identify as LGBTQ2S and other vulnerable groups.

The motion before City Council can be viewed here http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2020.GL14.11