The City of Phoenix recently completed its pilot program of enhanced cleanings on Madison St. between 12th and 13th Avenues. Despite misgivings by the ACLU, the court refused to prohibit the City of Phoenix’s cleaning efforts and the City intends to continue its efforts in that regard.
The enhanced cleanings provide an important opportunity to conduct outreach and engage with people who are unsheltered to offer them services to help end their homelessness and safe indoor spaces to stay. Approximately 40 individuals were staying in the pilot area and each person was offered an available bed at a shelter. 33 people accepted services and were placed in shelter.
Prior to conducting this pilot, the City of Phoenix implemented additional measures to address concerns about property and storage. Through the process, they reviewed and adjusted their practices to make any additional required modifications. Their process withstood a legal challenge and the city is confident that continuing the enhanced cleanings with these measures in place will protect the constitutional rights of our unsheltered residents.
