PHOENIX - The city of Phoenix has achieved its goal of clearing out a massive downtown homeless encampment by the court-ordered deadline, helping more than 500 individuals secure beds in shelters and motels.

The once bustling area, previously filled with hundreds of tents, is now devoid of encampments, with only a few individuals left wandering around or pushing shopping carts with their belongings.

The city actively worked to assist those in need by offering them alternative accommodations. However, some, like Lily Bitsui, 33, were unaware of the assistance available to them. Beneficiaries, such as Rudy Soliz, the operations director at Justa Center, which caters to older homeless individuals, have noticed a reduction in crime around the area.

The clearance process began earlier this year, with city workers focusing on one block at a time. The initiative offered street dwellers various indoor sleeping options, ranging from emergency shelters and short stays at motels to more extended transitional housing for older individuals. After clearing each of the 15 blocks, the areas were cleaned and designated as no-camping zones.

According to city officials, a total of 718 individuals were offered shelter assistance over several months. Remarkably, 585 individuals, approximately 80% of those offered help, accepted placement. Phoenix has also recently designated a city parking lot for homeless individuals to pitch tents, providing a safer and more controlled environment.

Currently, 21 individuals are utilizing this site, which features portable restrooms, showers, meal services, property storage, security, and a resident code of conduct. Prohibiting drugs, alcohol, fires, and camping on the sides of the property ensure safety and order.

The success of placing such a substantial number of individuals can be attributed to the addition of 482 new temporary shelter beds this year alone, with 362 of them becoming available in October. Additionally, the city's largest emergency shelter nearby offers 600 beds.

Despite meeting the court deadline, the city acknowledges that there is still more work to be done. A statement from Phoenix emphasizes their commitment to ensuring every person has access to safe housing and services while maintaining the quality of life for all residents in the neighborhood.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Scott Blaney denied the city's request for an extension, reiterating the deadline for clearing the encampment known as "The Zone." A hearing scheduled for November 30 will determine whether Phoenix has complied with the November deadline.

Similar to other major cities grappling with homelessness, Phoenix faced the challenge of safeguarding the rights of homeless individuals while addressing concerns from businesses and homeowners. The encampment was viewed as a public nuisance and caused damage, litter, and an increase in crime for business owners and residents in the vicinity.

With the downtown homeless encampment cleared, the city of Phoenix has taken a step forward in addressing homelessness. The focus now shifts to providing ongoing support and creating sustainable solutions to ensure every resident has access to safe housing and services.