Encampment removal safely progresses
The removal of the encampment at 20th Street and Avenue K South has progressed for most of the day and is nearing completion following a coordinated community response focused on safety, dignity and connecting individuals with available supports.
A news release earlier in the day details the coordinated community response.
As part of the response, as of this afternoon:
- An estimated 120 unhoused individuals left the encampment site.
- Despite multiple and repeated efforts to offer supports, only 2 individuals accepted offers of support, including housing, shelter, transportation and other services.
- 80 total tents and temporary structures were removed.
- Approximately 5,622.24 kg of garbage and debris were cleared from the site and counting.
- The site will be fully fenced and secured within the next few hours.
"This is a complex operation that required balancing compassion for individuals experiencing homelessness with the need to address serious safety concerns within the encampment and surrounding community," says Deputy Fire Chief Yvonne Raymer. "Our priority from the start of the process was an orderly transition off the site while helping people access safer alternatives and available supports."
The City and partner organizations undertook extensive outreach efforts throughout the removal process to help individuals transition to safer accommodations and connect them with resources.
The site closure represents an important step in addressing immediate safety concerns while supporting individuals toward more stable living situations.
Images associated with this release:
