VANCOUVER, Wash. — Vancouver is considering converting the former Naydenov Gymnastics Facility in northeast Vancouver into a 150-bed homeless shelter, a move that has sparked mixed reactions from the community. The facility, known for training Olympian Jordan Chiles, was sold by its owners, who have since relocated.
Residents in the nearby Van Mall neighborhood have expressed unease about the potential shelter, including Jackie.
“Absolutely not," she said. "They better move it someplace else. There are too many old people who live here.”
Tom Baehr, another resident, added, “Already, we see trash from the homeless camping out here on the other side of the park.”
Jamie Spinelli, Vancouver’s homelessness response coordinator, acknowledged these concerns but highlighted the need for a solution to address the city’s full tiny homes and shelters, as well as the ongoing opioid crisis.
“We’re planning for a medication-assisted treatment program integrated into the shelter,” Spinelli said. “That kind of service exists in the community but not necessarily on-site with people who are experiencing homelessness.”
Spinelli said community forums, both in-person and virtual, will be held until the end of November to gather feedback.
Meanwhile, Garrett, a homeless individual, challenged the community’s commitment.
“Community feedback! I dare one of you guys to spend a week on the block if you’re housed. I dare you!” he said.
If the city moves forward with the plan, the shelter is expected to cost about $6 to $7 million annually to operate.