Homeless Camp Springs Up Across From NYU Dorms, Residents Prefer Street Life

A new homeless encampment has emerged on East Ninth Street and Third Avenue, directly across from a New York University dorm building in Manhattan.

The approximately 30-foot-long settlement, characterized by a blue tarp covering office chairs, luggage, and bicycles, has become a visible fixture in the neighborhood.

Residents of the encampment expressed a preference for living on the streets over city-run shelters. Raymond, 45, who resides in the encampment, stated that he finds street life "much better" under the current administration. "The past mayor had the police and they just came through and took stuff," Raymond said. "Now they ask if we are ok and need help." He added that he prefers the current situation to shelters where his belongings were previously stolen.

Another resident, Dave, 31, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that ample services are available for those who seek them. "This is a choice. If you wanted to be inside, you could," Dave stated. He also noted that some individuals choose to remain outdoors, even at the risk of freezing, citing friends who have died in previous winters.

The emergence of this encampment follows a pattern of similar settlements that have appeared throughout the city. Previous encampments have been reported near the Intrepid Museum, under the FDR Drive on the East Side, and in Greenwich Village.

According to reports, the city's policy for addressing encampments involves sending outreach workers to offer services, rather than immediate police intervention or removal. After a period, typically seven days, police and sanitation workers are dispatched to clear the rubbish.

NYPD officers responded to a 311 complaint at the East Ninth Street site on Sunday. According to witnesses, the officers instructed the individuals to "condense and get rid of some stuff" before leaving the scene.

One passerby remarked on the encampment's appearance, comparing it to the Skid Row area of Los Angeles.