TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – After years of deliberation and mounting concerns, the Traverse City Police Department (TCPD) has announced it will begin enforcing its no- camping ordinance in city parks starting May 6th. That is, if the city moves ahead with their plans for a year-round homeless shelter.
This move directly impacts individuals residing in what is referred to as “The Pines,” a longstanding homeless encampment off Eleventh Street. City officials have emphasized that residents have been informed since fall 2024 that The Pines would not be a long-term solution beyond summer 2025 and they have been reminded again of the deadline to leave.
No more camping at The Pines.
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The ordinance, which hasn’t been enforced up until now, states: “No person shall camp within any park. No person shall park overnight any house trailer or camping vehicle in any park. A person who violates this section is responsible for a civil infraction.”
The police department, in a press release from Chief Matthew G. Richmond, describes that this decision was made relating to upcoming changes for the city’s discussions of a special land use permit to allow for a year-round emergency shelter to be available (Safe Harbor). The city will make it’s final decision about the permit on May 5th.
In the press release, the TCPD says that the city and police department are working with local partners to prioritize a housing-focused approach to homelessness. It goes on to say “The goal is to ensure access to safe, stable housing – not just temporary fixes. Encampments are not a long-term solution, as they leave individuals vulnerable to extreme weather, violence, accidental fires, and serious health risks. Without proper sanitation, healthcare access, and security, encampments put individuals and the community at risk.”
Support systems in place.
In preparation for the enforcement of the ordinance, the city’s Quick Response Team (QRT) and community partners have been working to identify individuals in The Pines and assist with relocation plans. Efforts include expanding shelter options, such as the proposed year-round operation of Safe Harbor, pending approval of an updated special land use permit.
City Manager Liz Vogel stated, “No community has successfully managed encampments as a long- term solution to homelessness – they are inherently unsafe and unsustainable. We recognize that this transition will be difficult, as a sense of community has formed within The Pines. However, safety must remain our top priority. By expanding shelter options, we are working to ensure that individuals have safe, viable alternatives when the encampment is no longer an option.”
A long time coming.
Traverse City’s decision marks a major shift in addressing homelessness. Community members are flooding social media with relief and support for finally enforcing the longstanding camping ban at The Pines – a persistent concern for neighbors, business owners, and families nearby.
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While debates over how best to address homelessness have persisted for years – with passionate voices on both sides – many residents say they’re simply glad to see the city take action after what they describe as years of inaction, safety concerns, and environmental degradation. For them, the move represents not just the enforcement of an ordinance, but the return of public spaces to the broader community and a step toward long-term solutions that don’t involve makeshift camps in the woods.
