Growing Migrant Population at Logan Airport Strains Resources

Boston’s Logan Airport has seen a significant increase in migrants, with hundreds staying in the baggage claim area since last year due to the state's shelters being full. The Massachusetts Port Authority reports that migrants arrive at all hours, and with limited resources, they are transported to state welcome centers daily, only to return by night. In response, Governor Maura Healey has announced plans to convert a former prison into a shelter for 400 homeless families, with 150 spaces reserved for migrant families.

Context Behind the Situation:
Boston’s Logan Airport is currently experiencing a growing population of migrants, with hundreds of individuals occupying the baggage claim area since last year. The influx has been challenging to manage, given that the state’s shelters, which have a maximum capacity of 7,500 people, are already full.

A representative from the Massachusetts Port Authority highlighted the ongoing issue, noting that migrants continue to arrive at Logan Airport around the clock. The airport lacks the necessary staff and resources to provide adequate care for such a large number of people. Consequently, migrants are transported from the airport to state welcome centers each day, only to return by night, indicating a temporary and insufficient solution to the problem.

In an effort to address the increasing need for accommodation, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey announced in May that a former prison southwest of Boston will be converted into a shelter. This facility is expected to house 400 homeless families, with 150 spaces specifically allocated for migrant families. This measure aims to alleviate some of the pressure on Logan Airport and the state’s shelter system, providing a more stable and supportive environment for those in need.

For more details on this situation and updates on the response efforts, check out our related videos and articles. Stay informed about the latest developments in migrant support and state resource management.