Heather Fordham

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Aug 13, 2025, 5:52 PM

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Updated

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Drugs, homelessness and trash are plaguing the Clifford Place Step Street in Morris Heights.

The once crumbling step street was restored in 2019 to create a walkable link between the Grand Concourse and Walton Avenue.

However, people who live and work nearby told News 12 they avoid taking the path all together due to safety concerns.

"Too much trash there, a lot of people go to sleep there overnight, and I know it's not good, people are afraid because of what they see there," said Louis DeJesus, who lives nearby.

Our cameras captured a group of people occupying the landing of the stairs, dirty diapers and trash along the stairs.

The NYPD is in communication with News 12 about the specific engagement it is doing to keep the area safe, and will provide additional information that illustrates what is being done on the ground.