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Cedrick Baker oversees the clearing of St. Paul's Pig's Eye Park homeless encampment to improve public safety

St. Paul officials began clearing the city's largest homeless encampment at Pig's Eye Park on Wednesday, moving residents toward indoor shelter options. Assistant Mayor Cedrick Baker stated that the city aims to provide a dignity-focused transition for the roughly 140 residents, who have faced safety issues including fires, overdoses, and assaults. While the city estimated 140 residents, a population sign at the site claimed over 250 people were present. Outreach teams are working one-on-one with residents to pack belongings and connect them with resources. Many residents are relocating to the Randolph Avenue Bridge encampment, which has seen a significant influx of new arrivals. Catholic Charities Twin Cities and Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities are also providing shelter beds. Despite some pushback from faith leaders and activists who requested a pause to expand shelter capacity, the city moved forward with the clearing to address public safety concerns. The administration's goal is to move residents into stable housing and provide a safe environment for the community.

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