Petition against temporary housing site for asylum seekers in Kanata gains rapid support

A petition against a proposed temporary housing site for asylum seekers in Kanata has gained over 2,500 signatures in less than 24 hours. Residents are concerned about safety and the impact on their community, urging the City of Ottawa to reconsider the location. The City announced that 40 Hearst Way, part of the Eagleson Park & Ride, is being considered for a newcomer welcoming center. Local officials stated that the structure would only be built if another site on Woodroffe Avenue is insufficient to meet demand. Residents have expressed frustration over a lack of transparency in the site selection process. They argue that the Hearst Way location lacks necessary infrastructure for asylum seekers, such as healthcare and transit access, raising concerns about their well-being.