Syracuse, N.Y. – As the city’s skyline changes with the I‑81 highway project and a new aquarium, local advocates warn that the rapid development is making the homelessness problem more visible and urgent.
Construction reshapes the city, but leaves some behind
City leaders tout the economic boost from large‑scale projects, yet the influx of workers and the re‑configuration of public spaces have displaced people who previously lived in hidden encampments. “So you’re building something beautiful, which is great, but you’re building it with people that are suffering all around it,” said John Tumino, executive director of In My Father’s Kitchen, a nonprofit that serves individuals experiencing homelessness.
Tumino praised the investment but urged the city to balance growth with compassion. “I love seeing the development of everything that’s happening in the city, but at the same time you can’t forget this other population. They’re part of our community, right?”
Homelessness numbers climb amid development
Advocates cite recent counts showing more than 1,200 people experiencing homelessness in Syracuse, a figure that has risen steadily over the past year. As construction sites shift where people can find shelter, the issue is becoming harder for the broader community to overlook.
Laquita Drummond, who has been homeless for two years, said the increased visibility is finally forcing residents to confront the problem. “People know that homelessness exists, but they put on their rose‑colored glasses. Oh, not in my neighborhood. Oh, not where I work. But now they’re right there on Salinas Street, downtown Salinas Street,” she explained.
Calls for long‑term solutions
Both advocates and city officials agree that short‑term measures—such as moving people off the streets—are insufficient. They stress the need for affordable housing, mental‑health services, and job‑training programs tailored to individual needs.
Drummond highlighted the scarcity of stable, affordable options. “Finding stable housing remains a challenge. Affordable options are limited, and existing resources do not always provide the support people need to get back on their feet,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Drummond remains hopeful. “If we all work together, work together, we can see a change. We can,” she affirmed.
Winter adds urgency
With colder weather approaching, advocates warn that the need for shelter and supportive services will intensify. They are urging city leaders to incorporate homelessness mitigation into the planning of ongoing and future projects.
“While Syracuse continues to invest in its future, we hope the city’s progress will also include those struggling to find a place to call home,” Tumino concluded.
Local nonprofits, faith groups, and community volunteers are mobilizing to provide emergency blankets, meals, and outreach as the city navigates this dual challenge of growth and compassion.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
