Newark moves to clear homeless encampment along busy I-280 on-ramp
Tents line the side of the highway on-ramp to I-280. Panhandlers are often seen on the busy roadways throughout the day.
A homeless encampment located below the intersection of Interstate 280 and Route 21 in Newark is slated for removal amidst ongoing safety concerns.
Tents line the side of the highway on-ramp to I-280. Panhandlers are often seen on the busy roadways throughout the day.
"I feel so bad and so sorry for them because if somebody's not paying attention - people drunk or anything coming can lose control - they can hit them. It's dangerous," said Newark resident Priscilla.
According to Newark's Office of Homeless Services, the location's proximity to the roadway has accelerated plans to clear the site.
"It's much more expedited in these situations because obviously they're in a lot of danger being there so close to the curb," said Luis Ulerio, director of the Newark Office of Homeless Services.
The city estimates only a handful of people are currently living at the site. Still, the Newark Department of Public Safety said they respond to the area on a weekly basis.
The on-ramp is owned by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and specialized crews from the state DOT are responsible for clearing encampments and removing any biohazards left behind.
"They need to let the people know that there are different things they can do to get from under there," said Nicolle Harris, who often drives on the ramp.
The Office of Homeless Services said outreach workers regularly engage with people living in the encampment and will continue offering housing and support services before the site is cleared.
"We are not able to force individuals into housing or services," said Ulerio. "So it's a conversation, and sometimes it's dozens of conversations before the person accepts the service, and it's something we're committed to do."
