Homeless Encampment Near Manhattan's Intrepid Museum Reappears Despite City Cleanups

A homeless encampment near Manhattan's West Side, close to the Intrepid Museum, has been repeatedly cleaned out by the city but continues to reappear. Local workers and visitors express concerns about safety and the persistent presence of the encampment. A neighborhood worker noted, "It’s awful... I’ve seen them clear them out a few times. They come back." A family of tourists from Toronto mentioned shielding their child while passing the encampment, indicating that it is not an unusual sight for them. The encampment, which has been reported on since June, spans 12 city blocks and has included tents and makeshift shelters. Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration has faced criticism for its slow response, with a policy that delays police action for at least a week while outreach workers are sent in. Although some shelters were removed, individuals have relocated nearby. Liam James, a regular at the encampment, shared his experience of being offered temporary housing but expressed a desire to return to the streets due to the sense of community he feels there. Jahsor Banks, another resident of the encampment, acknowledged the city's efforts but highlighted the bonds formed among those living in the encampment.