Norfolk Southern sets December eviction date; city ramps up outreach as advocates urge alternatives

Norfolk Southern has given the City of Bethlehem notice that it intends to clear encampments on its private rail property, and city officials spent the council meeting describing months of outreach and contingency planning while residents and advocates called for more time and alternatives. Councilwoman Mary Leon said Norfolk Southern "picked December" for the action, and multiple speakers at the meeting warned that clearing the site during the cold season could put people at risk.

Why it matters: the land Norfolk Southern seeks to clear is private railroad property. City staff and local nonprofits have been coordinating shelter and services for months, but advocates told council that some people living outdoors will not use congregate shelter and need other options.

Public advocates and service providers said they want Norfolk Southern to delay the eviction and to coordinate with local shelter operators. Mark Riddle, executive…