Governor Maura Healey announced that migrants who have been seeking shelter at Boston’s Logan International Airport will no longer be allowed to do so starting July 9. The state of Massachusetts has reached its capacity to accommodate migrants in the shelter system, prompting the state to take action by opening a former minimum-security dorm-like facility in Norfolk to house up to 140 migrants and homeless families, totaling about 450 individuals.
The decision to ban migrants from staying at the airport comes after the state sent a delegation to the border to inform border officials, NGOs, and migrants that there is no more space available in Massachusetts’ shelter system. The administration has been working on increasing the number of families transitioning from shelters to more stable housing, leading to the closure of the airport as a shelter option.
Additionally, migrants will be offered transfers to other new “safety-net” sites as part of the state’s efforts to provide housing assistance, work authorization applications, job placements, and English classes. The administration has been making progress in assisting migrants, with over 300 families leaving the facilities since May.
The Norfolk facility has been equipped with amenities such as showers, bathrooms, a cafeteria, gymnasium, common room, and offices for case management and administrative activities. There are play areas for children and classroom spaces for adults to learn English and receive job training. The site is staffed 24/7 by a contracted service provider, and families have access to transportation on and off-site.
Despite the efforts to provide migrants with housing and support services, it is unclear how much the entire operation will cost taxpayers. The state has implemented a nine-month limit of stay for emergency shelters and 30-day engagement requirements for migrants to demonstrate progress towards obtaining work permits, jobs, and housing.
Overall, the decision to remove migrants from Logan Airport and provide alternative accommodations reflects the state’s commitment to addressing the migrant crisis while ensuring the well-being of families, travelers, and airport staff. Governor Healey’s administration continues to work towards finding sustainable solutions to support migrants in need of housing and assistance in Massachusetts.