Westwood Intersection Sees Ongoing Encampment Despite City Cleanup Efforts
Westwood Homeless Encampments Resurge After Repeated Cleanups
LOS ANGELES – A homeless encampment at one of Westwood’s busiest intersections has returned, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the community. Despite multiple cleanings by city crews, the area near Santa Monica Boulevard and Westwood Boulevard has seen a rapid resurgence of individuals and makeshift shelters.
Last month, city workers cleared tents and debris from the site, but it took mere hours for people to return. Residents report that this cycle of cleanup and re-occupation has occurred consistently over recent weeks. On Monday night, several individuals were again seen sleeping at the intersection, surrounded by scattered trash, furniture, and debris.
"I mean, we’ve been here. We haven’t left yet," shared Larry, who has lived on the street for about five years. Another resident, Derek, indicated that a sense of safety draws people back to the area. "It’s the safest place to be where you’re not disturbing the front of a business," he noted.
Both men mentioned having been offered shelter in the past. Derek frequently declines such offers, while Larry prefers to remain outdoors to assist others in similar situations.
The situation has raised growing concerns among local residents and workers. "It’s turning into a nightmare, really," lamented Paul Spurrier, a local resident and employee. "It’s like, wow, welcome to L.A. This is supposed to be one of the nicer areas."
At the time of reporting, an individual was seen sleeping beneath a patio umbrella outside a Peet’s Coffee location, surrounded by trash and makeshift items resembling weapons.
City crews are anticipated to conduct another cleanup in the near future; however, residents remain skeptical, citing that encampments often return shortly after removal.
A spokesperson for Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky announced that her office is working on installing signage to designate the intersection as a no-camping zone, which could pave the way for stricter enforcement once approved.
