MnDOT Manages Homeless Encampment with Fencing and Cleanup Efforts

DULUTH, Minn. — More than 600 people are experiencing homelessness in St. Louis County this year. That number is up by 20% from five years ago.

For Taylor Longrie, home is not a house, but rather a tent beneath the i-35 ramp in Duluth.

“I’ve traveled 35 states in 10 months and this is the last state that I’ve posted up at and kind of have been staying at the past year.”

Longrie went on to say, “we’re just out here hanging out, some homeless and some have houses. We try to keep it kind of clean for the community so we can have a place to post up for a little bit.”

The Minnesota Department of Transportation says, it’s trying to find a balance.

A group with MnDOT went to the camp on Railroad Street.

Not to kick them out, but to pick up garbage and other hazard materials, including many syringes lying on the ground.

“I appreciate the people that go by and see the struggle we’re going through, the pain. We don’t have many clothes so people donate clothes they donate food. You know, we put out signs sometimes and we’re really thankful for the things that people have done for us.”

Meanwhile just down the road where the previous camp used to be, fencing is going up and no trespassing signs have been posted.

This comes months after two large fires took place at the site.

Authorities say the fires were caused by the campers.

We asked MnDOT about the new fencing and the camp cleanup.

They declined an on camera interview, but provided us a written statement that reads,

“MnDOT makes every effort to provide services and long-term solutions for the people currently residing in the encampments on state property. We are currently coordinating with the city and social service providers to monitor health and safety at these locations and are determining what the next steps will be.”

With Minnesota winter right around the corner, frigid temperatures and dangerous weather are to be expected.

Taylor Longrie plans to ditch the cold and move to the coast, but others at the homeless camp will stay and cope with the snow.

This winter, the Chum Warming Center in Duluth will be a open through the night for people experiencing homelessness.