Oaklands largest homeless camp is being demolished

The city of Oakland commenced the demolition of the E. 12th median homeless encampment, a long-standing issue for local officials, with plans to relocate 79 residents to a new shelter funded by a $7 million state grant. On the first day of the operation, city workers nearly injured a resident, prompting criticism from observers who highlighted the dangers of the demolition process. Past incidents, including a fatality in Vallejo during a similar cleanup, raised alarms about safety protocols. The city implemented a “safe work zone” policy to limit access during demolitions, but concerns arose regarding its enforcement.

Assistant City Administrator Harold Duffey affirmed that police conduct checks before demolitions, claiming residents are expected to vacate. Governor Gavin Newsom's recent call for a ban on homeless encampments reflects a broader push for local governments to take decisive action. The E. 12th Street closure is part of a larger initiative to address homelessness in Oakland, alongside the acquisition of transitional housing. This effort aims to convert temporary shelters into permanent supportive housing units over time.