Construction is commencing on transitional housing for homeless individuals in a south-side Fredericton neighborhood near the Princess Margaret Bridge. The provincial government has green-lighted the project, deeming it urgently necessary, but will be seeking input from the community in the coming week.
Housing Minister David Hickey emphasized the need for swift implementation of these units to provide alternatives to shelter living during the winter months. While specific details such as the project’s size, unit count, and occupancy numbers were not disclosed, a news release indicated that the “inclusive community housing” will operate round-the-clock, offering secure accommodations, laundry facilities, dining services, and communal areas.
Hickey clarified that the forthcoming units will serve as transitional housing rather than a conventional shelter. The chosen site at 334 Forest Hill Rd., out of approximately 20 considered locations in Fredericton, is a compact, previously wooded plot owned by the province, situated adjacent to the northbound bridge onramp.
Highlighting the pressing homeless situation in Fredericton with nearly 300 individuals without shelter as winter looms, Hickey stressed the urgency of action to meet community expectations. An informational session open to the public is scheduled for Wednesday at Forest Hill Elementary School gym, where further project specifics and timelines will be revealed.
Prior to the formal announcement, both the province and the city remained reticent about sharing any preliminary details regarding the initiative. Despite inquiries by CBC News about the construction activities at the site, no responses were provided by government representatives, leaving residents informed but media outlets uninformed about the impending project.
Addressing concerns about the lack of prior notification to residents, Hickey reiterated the critical need for expanded housing capacity beyond emergency shelters in Fredericton. While the city’s role is restricted to the building permit process due to appropriate zoning, local councilor Greg Ericson expressed surprise at not being briefed before the public announcement. CBC News attempted to reach Ericson for comment, but he deferred until receiving information from city officials or the upcoming community meeting.