Days after a drug and alcohol treatment center in Port Richmond announced plans to expand, some residents who live in the area are voicing their concerns. NY1's Aaron Dickens filed the following report.
Social service organizations line Port Richmond Avenue. Beryl Thurman says she has lived in the neighborhood for 18 years and has seen a significant increase.
"With those social services came a certain amount of 'transientness,' which makes it very hard on the people who bought homes in our communities," Thurman said.
Thurman and other residents spoke out about the issue at a Community Board 1 meeting Tuesday night, hoping to gain support.
Last week, Camelot, an organization that helps those battling addiction, announced it was renovating its facility in Port Richmond. It also plans to add 35 beds for clients.
"We already have 50 social services in our community. I cannot put it any clearer than that. It is oversaturation," Thurman said.
Luke Nasta, Camelot's executive director, says patients will live at the facility for six to 12 months. He says the goal is to get them permanent housing and jobs.
In a statement he said, "I wouldn't expect anyone to oppose an essential service that is designed to save lives and restore families during a drug epidemic."
Nasta will present his expansion plan a special community board meeting next week. Then, the board will vote for or against it next month. Once a decision is made, the board will then send letters of recommendation to local elected officials on Staten Island and the mayor. Members say those letters could have influence.
Thurman could have an uphill battle. The plan already has the support of several elected officials and the State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, which has allocated $1 million to the project.
Construction is expected to begin next year.