Among the 46,000 homeless people in Los Angeles, dozens live along the Arroyo Seco, off the 110 Freeway, near Highland Park.
Those who live there have built a number of makeshift structures, some with tents, tarps and other salvaged materials, but at least one of these structures, complete with a stone wall, walkway, an entrance door, electric lighting and even a hammock to relax in, stands out.
People living in the apparently well-maintained structure didn’t want to talk to KTLA and, predictably, those who live near the riverfront home have differing opinions about the encampment.
A woman who lives nearby told KTLA’s John Fenoglio in Spanish that the unhoused residents don’t bother her and that most of those who live along the Arroyo are quiet and keep to themselves.
Neighbor Mike Ancheta doesn’t feel the same way, although he admits some of the work done on the structures is impressive.
“I just admired the work they did,” he told KTLA. “Then, of course, you get violently attacked by these guys.”
For him, the city must clean up the encampment.
“It has no place here. It’s public property,” Ancheta said. “But that’s not what it’s supposed to be used for. It’s dangerous. As you can see, someone is cooking over there, over an open fire. They steal electricity. I mean, come on.
Neighbor Enrique Rodriguez agrees with that sentiment but says he has empathy for those who are struggling.
“It’s unfortunate that some of these people are here,” he said. “I wish better for these people. I can’t be sorry for the mistakes they made.
Ulysses Chavez told KTLA he thinks getting by in Los Angeles has become too difficult.
“It’s fucked,” he said. “They should lower the rents. They should lower all kinds of things, especially in Los Angeles. »
KTLA contacted the office of Councilman Eunisses Hernandez, who represents the area, about the encampment along the Arroyo and is awaiting a response.
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