Following City Council’s decision on July 21 to confirm 879 Alloy Place (Hillyard Site) as the location for the Temporary Shelter Village, City staff hosted an information session this morning for nearby business owners and operators.

Held at Moose Hall in partnership with the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, about 55 people attended to ask questions, and learn more about the project and opportunities for ongoing engagement as the project moves forward.

The Temporary Shelter Village is a key part of the City’s Enhanced Encampment Response Plan. The 10-part plan was approved by Council in 2024 to address unsheltered homelessness using a human rights-based approach. The Village will provide 80 insulated sleeping cabins with heating and cooling, shared washrooms and laundry facilities, access to food, 24/7 staffing, and on-site programming to support stabilization and pathways to more appropriate housing.

Construction is expected to begin later this summer. To meet provincial funding requirements, at least 40 units must be operational by December 15, 2025, with all 80 completed by February 27, 2026.

Council’s decision to proceed with the Hillyard Site is considered final, unless significant, unresolvable issues arise during the current assessment phase, such as serious safety concerns or costs that exceed the approved project budget.

The City is committed to ongoing, transparent communication with nearby businesses, residents, and the wider community. Current engagement efforts include:

  • Establishing a Neighbourhood Liaison Committee, led by the City’s Encampment Response Lead, to support open communication between the operator, City staff, local businesses, residents, and individuals with lived experience.
  • Additional business and public information sessions will be hosted to share project updates.
  • Regular updates through the City’s website, social media channels, and printed materials.

For more information and ongoing updates, visit: thunderbay.ca/village

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Contact:          Stacey Levanen, Engagement & Public Information Specialist, 807-625-3650