A homeless encampment spanning 12 blocks near the Intrepid Museum in Manhattan has grown significantly, drawing criticism over Mayor Zohran Mamdani's new policy for addressing homelessness. The policy requires city social workers and homeless advocates to engage with individuals at encampments for a week before law enforcement can intervene, a measure that critics say is too slow.
Former NYPD Commissioner William Bratton expressed concern that the current situation resembles the conditions of the 1980s and 1990s, a period he characterized as a "mess" for New York City. He attributed the resurgence of such issues to a lack of enforcement of quality-of-life offenses. "Those who don’t know their history are doomed to repeat it," Bratton stated, referencing past problems with squeegee men, prostitution, graffiti, open-air drug markets, and fare evasion.
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola has also voiced strong disapproval, stating that Mamdani's policies have transformed the West Side into "Skid Row." She criticized the administration's "hands-off approach" as a replication of policies that have impacted Los Angeles and San Francisco. Ariola also pointed to Mamdani's membership in the Democratic Socialists of America.
Mayor Mamdani's administration repealed the previous mayor's policy, which had advocated for a more aggressive stance in clearing encampments. The new approach emphasizes a "housing-first" strategy, relying on outreach teams from the Department of Community Safety to connect homeless individuals with services. Under this policy, police intervention is restricted until after the outreach teams have attempted to counsel occupants for seven days, or in cases of crime or emergencies.
A statement from the city sanitation department indicated a shift away from "failed encampment sweep policies" towards connecting New Yorkers with resources for stable housing. A City Hall representative assured that the site would be cleaned.
However, Brian Stettin, a former senior advisor on severe mental illness under the previous administration, suggested that public faith in the policy could erode if the city does not act promptly. He believes the seven-day period for voluntary resolution should commence immediately upon confirmation of an encampment's presence.
Reports indicate that individuals at the encampment have been tapping into public utility poles for electricity. While police have ordered encampments to disconnect, this measure is effective only while officers are present. Mayor Mamdani addressed the encampment on Monday, stating his focus is on connecting individuals with shelter and housing, rather than relocating them, and that the details of the specific encampment would be investigated.
The growing encampment near the Intrepid Museum, a popular tourist attraction, has drawn attention from both residents and law enforcement, who worry about the city's image, especially with potential international visitors.