Cleared homeless encampment leaves more than 155k lbs. of waste in its wake
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — An encampment near SeaWorld Drive has been cleared out.
“This particular encampment on the ‘island’ started to get really significant in 2022,” said Sarah Hutmacher, San Diego River Park Foundation Chief Operating Officer.
As we near the rainy season in San Diego, city official’s concerns about the safety of those living near the river are growing.
“When we see winter storms here this is one of the fastest areas to flood. We’re concerned about the potential loss of life,” Hutmacher continued.
California sues SoCal city over homeless shelter ban
And what might be swept from the river into the ocean.
Money from California’s Encampment Resolution Funding Program was used to pay for outreach that started months ago, ensuring those living in the encampment under Interstate 5 near SeaWorld Drive had somewhere to go before it was cleared.
“A majority of the people were able to find some type of shelter option, whether it was permanent or our Safe Sleeping,” said Franklin Coopersmith, City of San Diego Environmental Services Department Deputy Director Clean SD Division.
96 people were living on the islands filled with shacks, tents and other unsuitable dwellings.
National City encampment ban goes into effect
Though the outreach was covered by the grant, the city would ultimately foot the bill for the cleanup of 156,000 pounds of trash.
“We are just seeing huge amounts of trash, plastics, chemical pollution, all kinds of things getting into the waterways,” said Hutmacher.
Chula Vista officially bans homeless encampments; advocates raise concerns
Phase one has been completed, but phase two of three for this encampment clearing effort begins this week.
“After the ‘island’ they’re moving upstream into Mission Valley and eventually all the way into Grantville,” said Hutmacher.
The city is following up with site visits to make sure nobody returns to the encampment. They are also making sure anyone in need of resources is being connected with them, so they don’t feel the need to return.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.