LITTLE ROCK, AR – A restaurant owner says the growing number of homeless encampments on the Rock Creek Trail is a safety concern that he hopes will be resolved soon.
Lazy Pete's co-owner Susan Edwards said homeless encampments near her store continue to be a problem.
“We've seen more and more problems here, more trash, more disasters,” Edwards said.
This homeless encampment, with some clothes and trash hanging from trees, is on the trail we first covered in July 2023, but under different management then.
“This kept us away from our summer camp because it became such a nuisance and threat,” said Nathan Kirby, owner of Rock City MMA.
Little Rock Parks and Recreation Director Leland Couch said last year that the camp was created after the park was closed due to tornado damage on March 31, and that it would take several weeks to resolve the issue. Stated.
But nearly a year later, Edwards said it's still dangerous.
“We experienced slashed tires and other property damage around the property, and we also saw things like used needles and used condoms. We want answers (from the city),” Edwards said. Told.
The City of Little Rock released a statement regarding ongoing plans to resolve this issue.
“Because city ordinance prohibits camping in city parks, homelessness professionals can ensure that those in the camp have resources and support to relocate before the camp is cleared. “We are working hard to ensure this,” the statement said. “It has happened in the last few weeks and the city plans to clear the area early next week.”
Edwards said this reduction in homeless encampments would be positive evidence of the city's response to this ongoing problem.
“We want to have compassion and empathy for people facing homelessness, but we also want to be safe. Their actions and their footprint are unsafe,” Edwards said. said.
