In a bid to tackle crime and substance addiction in Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu has enacted a new rule that will dismantle a long-standing homeless tent city located on “Methadone Mile.” The corner of Melnea Cass Boulevard and Massachusetts Avenue has been occupied by tents and tarps for years, housing individuals struggling with substance addiction. The area has been plagued by crime, prompting the mayor to take action.
Starting from November 1, the new rule will give police the authority to remove the tents and tarps, effectively dissolving the tent encampment. Residents of the tent city have been notified of the new rule in multiple languages. Additionally, any newcomers to the camp will be met by a team of social workers and law enforcement personnel, who will inform them that new tents will not be allowed.
Mayor Wu acknowledged the complexity of the situation, citing the opiate crisis, homelessness, and mental health as long-standing challenges faced by cities across the country. However, she expressed confidence in Boston’s ability to effectively connect people in need with the necessary services.
The problem at “Methadone Mile” persisted despite the previous mayor’s efforts to connect individuals with social services. The number of people in the area has decreased from approximately 200 per day to between 80 and 90 individuals. To address the issue, Mayor Wu has outlined a three-pronged plan. The first step involves removing the tents and tarps, followed by connecting individuals with housing and other services. The third aspect of the plan includes a “heavy” police presence to crack down on crime in the area.
City Council President Ed Flynn has expressed support for a “zero tolerance” approach at “Methadone Mile,” emphasizing the need for individuals to follow the rules. He believes that those who break criminal laws should be arrested and prosecuted.
As Boston takes measures to address the homeless tent city issue, the state continues to grapple with a migrant crisis. Republican state Rep. Peter Durant has raised concerns about the “right-to-shelter law,” which entitles migrant families to emergency shelter at the expense of taxpayers. Durant argues that while it is important to address the problems on “Methadone Mile,” the influx of migrants is leading to the emergence of more tent cities. He proposes that individuals receiving benefits from the “right-to-shelter” law should be legal residents for a minimum of three years.
Overall, Mayor Wu’s new rule to dismantle the homeless tent city on “Methadone Mile” reflects Boston’s efforts to address crime and substance addiction. With a focus on connecting individuals with housing and services, as well as increased police presence, the city aims to tackle the challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
