St. Paul Closes Encampments Amid Safety Concerns | Minneapolis News

Minneapolis News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 9, 2026 · 1m

St. Paul is shutting down homeless encampments across the city amid urgent health and safety crises — fires, thefts, and two overdose deaths — with winter looming. Officials say the move is proactive, aiming to connect people with housing and services before conditions worsen. But encampment residents argue they’re being ignored — many are just trying to survive amid job loss, mental health struggles, and trauma. The Pig’s Eye Park site closes August 5, with others to follow, as city teams offer daily support. This clash underscores the deep, personal realities of homelessness — and the need…