HRM removes fencing from parks that were formerly homeless encampments

Residents of Halifax’s west end are celebrating the reopening of Meagher Park after more than two years of closure. The park, located at the corner of Chebucto Road and Dublin Street, was previously home to a homeless encampment known as People’s Park. The closure of the park in July 2022 was met with mixed emotions, as advocates and volunteers worked to relocate those who had been living in the park for months on end.

After extensive remediation work, including the installation of lighting, benches, shrub beds, sod, and a new paved pathway, Meagher Park has finally reopened to the public. The cost of the restoration work was around $274,000, with an additional $794,000 spent on fencing at both Meagher Park and Victoria Park.

Max Chauvin, Halifax’s director of housing and homelessness, has received positive feedback from residents eager to use the park once again. He mentioned receiving emails from families excited to have lunch in the park and dog walkers looking forward to using Victoria Park, which also reopened after being closed due to a large encampment.

To prevent Meagher Park and Victoria Park from becoming encampments again, overnight sheltering is prohibited at both locations. Municipal staff will monitor the sites daily to ensure compliance, and anyone attempting to set up tents will be assisted in relocating to designated sites. HRM now has five designated encampment sites in Dartmouth and Halifax, with additional sites earmarked to be opened if needed.

Chauvin hopes that new shelter villages recently opened in the Halifax area will decrease the number of people living in encampments. These shelter villages offer heating, cooling, access to food and storage spaces, running water, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. The goal is to reduce the number of designated encampment sites and provide individuals with the support they need to transition off the streets.

The reopening of Meagher Park and Victoria Park marks a significant milestone in Halifax’s ongoing efforts to address homelessness and provide safe, welcoming spaces for all residents to enjoy. As the community continues to work towards solutions, the hope is that everyone can find stability and support to thrive in their lives.