KALAMAZOO (WKZO AM/FM) — There is a proposal for a new housing center in the Edison Neighborhood, but some residents are not happy.
The 10.5-million dollar project, called 333 Alcott Street Recovery Housing, would be a 51-unit apartment at the corner of Bryant and Reed Streets and house those struggling with opioid addiction, mental health issues, or people convicted or charged with nonviolent crimes.
The halfway house would provide services from employment and group therapy, to drug testing and security inside the building.
However, nearby residents feel that they were left in the dark about the plan and they’re concerned that the complex would increase crime, traffic, and other issues throughout Edison.
A “standing room only” meeting was held at the Edison Neighborhood Association on Washington Avenue Thursday evening and lasted about 2 hours as the discussion became heated between recovering addicts, contractors, and homeowners.
Recovering addicts and supporters of the plan say this would be a chance to restore lives as residents would be walking distance from many recovery services already in place near that area.
Overall Judge Lipsey says this is not a done deal. Rezoning, funding, and further discussions are needed before the application process can move forward.
If approved, construction would begin in early 2019 and it would take 2 years or more for the house to be completed.
The Kalamazoo Planning and Zoning Commission will meet Tuesday August 21st to further discuss the project.
