Tremont residents call for long-term solution to drug paraphernalia, homelessness concerns
While crews were recently seen cleaning up drug paraphernalia in the area, residents say the efforts provide only temporary relief.
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Residents in Tremont say used needles, bottle caps and other drug paraphernalia have become a common sight near East Tremont Avenue and the Grand Concourse, prompting concerns about safety and calls for a long-term solution.
Sandra, a Tremont resident who commutes through the area daily, said stepping over used needles has become part of her routine.
"It needs to be cleaned up. The people need help," she said.
Sandra said she regularly uses the Tremont Avenue train station to travel to and from work and has witnessed people appearing to overdose or lose consciousness in the area.
"I see them fall out, knee-knock and nod off," she said.
The conditions have become concerning enough that Sandra said she sometimes leaves work early to avoid being in the area after dark.
"With the crime going on, when you're on drugs, you need money," she said. "They get to people that are vulnerable, so I don't feel safe here."
While crews were recently seen cleaning up drug paraphernalia in the area, residents say the efforts provide only temporary relief.
Neighbors described the cleanup process as a recurring cycle, saying the area is cleaned only for the same problems to return shortly afterward.
"There has to be a solution to this, not just putting police in the area," Sandra said. "It's also putting community workers in the area to see where the needs are."
She said she hopes city leaders will take a different approach that addresses the underlying causes of homelessness, substance use and public safety concerns.
"I still have compassion for the people," Sandra said. "Maybe our mayor will help us a little bit better when it comes to these people."
News 12 reached out to city agencies and are waiting to hear back.
