‘The location is not appropriate’: Proposed housing project near Abbotsford school sparks community concern

The B.C. government is planning to build a supportive housing project in Abbotsford to address the city’s rise in homelessness, but the location has some reside

The B.C. government is proposing a new supportive housing project in Abbotsford to address the city’s growing homelessness crisis. But the location—directly across from a school—has sparked confusion, concern and calls for change from parents and nearby business owners.

The proposed site at 2270 Martens St. would house a 42-unit temporary modular housing project, situated across the street from Abbotsford Traditional School, which serves students from grades 6 to 12.

“This location is not appropriate for this because this is exposing our kids to unknown dangers,” said Rani Prakash, president of the school’s Parent Advisory Council.

The housing would be operated by the non-profit Connective, offering 24-7 staffing and wraparound support services. However, the province has not confirmed whether the site would include a safe consumption or overdose prevention room, where individuals can use substances under medical supervision—a detail that has heightened community concern.

“Our kids are running around here. We don’t want them exposed to second-hand fentanyl, smoking or any fire dangers or safety issues,” Prakash added.

Nearby business owner Rick Francoeur, who runs an auto shop beside the school, echoed the concerns.

“Doesn’t make any sense to me why this is close to a school,” he said. “I’d cringe to think a child might step on a needle or fall near one.”

Province responds to urgent need

In a statement to CTV News, BC Housing said the project comes at a time of urgent need.

“The latest Point-in-Time Count identified 654 people experiencing homelessness in Abbotsford,” the statement said. “If approved, the building would be temporary while permanent supportive homes are developed.”

CTV News asked BC Housing why it chose this location for the proposed site. “As this land is owned by the BC Transportation Financing Authority (BCTFA) and available for use, it represents an opportunity to create additional housing in Abbotsford,” read the emailed response.

BC Housing also noted that as of Oct. 30, 2025, there are approximately 210 active shelter beds in Abbotsford. The Lonzo shelter, which provided 50 spaces, is scheduled to close on Oct. 31 to allow for building removal tied to Highway 1 corridor work. All guests from Lonzo have already been relocated.

The province says it is working with the City of Abbotsford and community partners to deliver more than 240 new beds and supportive homes in the coming years.

Petition and political support

Prakash has launched a petition opposing the location, which has gathered more than 1,000 signatures. She also has support from Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman, who says the province has failed to properly consult the community.

“Absolutely the wrong location,” Banman said. “I believe the provincial government has a duty to consult the neighbourhood wholesomely, transparently, and this has not been done.”

“You need to find us a more suitable location,” Prakash added. “And you need to stop with the band-aid solution and help these vulnerable people with a more permanent one.”

A city spokesperson told CTV News that Mayor Ross Siemens would not be commenting at this time, as the project still requires city approval. Abbotsford City Council is expected to review the proposal early in the new year.