Neighborers press council for no-camping ordinance, cite safety and sanitation at Riverview Park

A Renton resident identified as Gwen addressed the council to describe safety, sanitation and access concerns related to an encampment near Riverview Park and the Maple Valley Highway pedestrian bridge. Gwen said the encampment has been in place for months to nearly two years, that fires have been lit in wooded areas, and that people are defecating and urinating in the river. She said residents feel unsafe using the trail, that some women will not walk without companions, and that businesses and park access have been affected.

Gwen urged the council to adopt a no-camping ordinance and to provide law enforcement with tools to clear encampments, arguing current responses have been ineffective. The mayor thanked the speaker. No ordinance or enforcement action was taken during the meeting; further discussion at committee or staff level would be required to change municipal code.