New Fort Worth public safety effort targets illegal campsites and safety concerns in the East Lancaster corridor area
Fort Worth, Texas – A new public safety effort is underway in Fort Worth as city officials and law enforcement work together to address growing concerns along the East Lancaster corridor, an area that has recently experienced rising issues tied to illegal street camping, public safety risks, and crime.
City leaders say the initiative began after officials noticed worsening conditions in a section of the corridor that runs near the 2400 block of Cypress Street and the 1500 block of East Presidio Street. According to authorities, officers assigned to the Homeless Outreach and Programs Enforcement Unit, commonly known as HOPE, began observing major changes in the area during October 2025.
Officials reported a sharp rise in illegal street camping that began blocking sidewalks and even portions of nearby roadways. The situation created concerns not only for the individuals living in the camps but also for pedestrians, drivers, volunteers, and outreach groups who regularly work in the area.
The location has also been linked to a higher level of violent crime compared to other parts of Fort Worth. Data from 2025 shows that the area recorded 171 citations during the year, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by officers and city workers trying to maintain order and safety in the corridor.
Cleanup Efforts and New Strategy
In response to the growing concerns, city officials began taking steps to address the situation. Early in November 2025, authorities distributed notices to people experiencing homelessness in the area as well as to nearby shelters and resource centers. The notices explained city ordinances regarding prohibited camping, obstruction of roadways, and the unauthorized use of public streets and sidewalks.
The goal was to ensure that those in the area were aware of the regulations before enforcement actions took place.
By Nov. 13, the HOPE Unit carried out a large cleanup operation across the East Lancaster corridor. The effort involved several city departments working together, including Environmental Services, Animal Control, and other partners. During the operation, crews removed illegal campsites along with large amounts of waste and debris that had accumulated in the area.
Although the cleanup temporarily improved conditions, officials say the results did not last long. Within just a few days, many of the same problems returned and the corridor once again began to resemble its previous state.
Recognizing the need for a longer-term solution, city leaders launched a broader public safety initiative in January. The new approach focuses on creating lasting improvements while protecting both the vulnerable individuals living in the area and the volunteers and service providers who assist them.
The initiative brings together multiple city groups, including the HOPE Unit, Central Patrol officers, Central Bikes, Homeless Strategies teams, Environmental Services, and other local partners. Officials say the goal is to maintain a safe, clean, and crime-free environment along the corridor.
The HOPE team, which operates as part of the Fort Worth Police Department, has played a key role in these efforts. In recent years, the unit has built strong partnerships with community organizations such as MHMR, Partnership Home, and the JPS Health Network. Through those partnerships, the team works to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with resources and support services while also addressing safety concerns within the community.
City officials say the new initiative is designed to balance enforcement, outreach, and cooperation, helping ensure that both public safety and compassionate assistance remain central to the city’s response.
