Residents urge action on homeless encampment, park safety in Boston neighborhood

Council heard two extended public comments from Boston neighborhood residents raising safety and sanitation concerns and urging the city to act. Darnell Christopher told the council the “homeless population” concentrated around “the gathering place” is generating health and safety problems in backyards and at local parks, including discarded needles and domestic disturbances, and asked whether shelters or services should be sited so close to homes and learning institutions. “They get fed every day, but they’re sleeping in our backyards and they’re causing all kinds of havoc,” Christopher said.

Cherry Thomas urged attention to traffic speeds near a playground off Mark Street and asked that park restrooms be reopened for daytime use, saying the lack of facilities deters families. Thomas also proposed relocating a historic cabin to a park site in Boston to add neighborhood amenities. “We really need to take a serious look at this because in a minute it’s not gonna be long before it’s too late,” Thomas said.

The mayor and council members acknowledged the concerns and directed staff to coordinate follow-up. Council members said traffic-calming options (additional 25-mph signage, targeted patrols and, if warranted, speed humps) are being considered as part of the city’s traffic-calming program; staff said the traffic unit will increase patrols in identified high-risk locations. Council also asked staff to look into park restroom availability and to review any code-enforcement or police reports associated with the neighborhood complaints.

The public-comment speakers did not request a specific ordinance; they asked the council to explore operational and siting solutions, including possible relocation of services. The council’s discussion concluded with a request that traffic committee and city staff return with options and implementation timing.