Dartmouth Community Voices Mounting Concerns Over The Bridge Homeless Shelter's Impact

A growing chorus of residents and businesses in Dartmouth is raising serious alarms about the escalating issues they attribute to The Bridge homeless shelter. What was once seen as a vital resource for the city's most vulnerable is now, according to many, becoming a source of significant disruption and safety concerns for the surrounding community.

The Bridge, located on the corner of Dundas and Queen streets, provides critical services to people experiencing homelessness.

However, its proximity to residential areas and local businesses has led to a noticeable increase in illicit activities and public nuisances, say those living and working nearby. Complaints range from overt drug use and the discovery of discarded needles to public urination, loitering, and what some describe as aggressive panhandling.

For homeowners like Darlene Chapman, who has resided in the area for decades, the change is stark and deeply troubling.

She recounts instances of finding needles and drug paraphernalia directly outside her home, a situation she describes as unsettling and unsafe, especially for children in the neighborhood. These personal accounts paint a picture of a community struggling to maintain its sense of peace and security.

Businesses are also feeling the brunt of the issues.

Owners report a decline in foot traffic and an increase in shoplifting and other petty crimes, directly impacting their livelihoods. One business owner, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, stated that the constant presence of individuals openly using drugs or engaging in disruptive behavior deters potential customers, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere that is detrimental to their operations.

Adding to the complexity are concerns about the shelter's operational practices and its capacity to manage the needs of its clients while also being a good neighbor.

Residents question whether sufficient resources and strategies are in place to address the external impacts of the shelter's presence. There's a call for greater collaboration between the shelter, municipal authorities, and the community to find solutions that support the homeless population without compromising the safety and well-being of existing residents and businesses.

Despite the complaints, the core mission of The Bridge remains vital: to provide shelter, support, and a path to stability for those in need.

The challenge lies in balancing this essential humanitarian effort with the legitimate concerns of the community it operates within. As Dartmouth continues to grapple with the complexities of homelessness, the debate surrounding The Bridge highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that foster both compassion for the vulnerable and a secure, thriving environment for all.