Residents, board raise alarm over planned shelter at Stillwell Ave; Assembly office says 1680 Stilwell to open in 2026

Community Board 11 members and residents pressed staff and elected-officials’ representatives on Dec. 18 after the Assembly office reported that the Department of Social Services plans to open a shelter at 1680 Stilwell Ave in 2026.

"This week, the Department of Social Services has informed our office and the community board that the site at 1680 Stilwell Avenue is planned to open in the 2026 as a 200 bed shelter serving single adult women," said Evan, a staff member from an assembly office. He added that the service provider identified for the site is Lanter Community Services and that further details would be provided as city and provider plans are finalized.

Multiple board members said they and many residents learned about actions at the site only after brush clearing and construction activity began, and several described a pattern in which shelters or related facility decisions are announced with little advance local notice. Members raised “saturation” concerns — that multiple facilities are being sited in close proximity — and asked how district and city processes can be made more transparent.

Staff and members said the board did not have a quorum and therefore could not take formal action at the Dec. 18 meeting; they urged further committee discussion and direct engagement with city agencies and the proposed service provider. The assembly office staff said the office will follow up with the provider and relay updates to the board.

Board members also asked staff to pursue clearer notifications and to request a project briefing with the city and provider so residents can ask specific questions about operations, admissions criteria and neighborhood impacts.