Bristol Township is working closely with county and state officials to address concerns related to a growing homeless encampment that residents say has become a significant nuisance.
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Residents from Beaver Dam Road raised the issue during last week’s Bristol Township Council meeting.
The residents expressed empathy for the homeless individuals and frustration over the encampment’s impact on their neighborhood. They also spoke of serious safety concerns.
One resident reported that homeless individuals have taken over a neighboring home and frequently trespass on her property.
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“They’re trespassing and I do call the police. Again, we have concerned citizens, they are taxpayers. It’s getting worse,” she said, noting that the situation has deteriorated over the past year.
Neighbors have witnessed “inappropriate things,” including two overdoses and a shooting linked to the encampment.
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“From last to this year, it’s getting worse,” the resident said, adding that children live in the neighborhood.
Township Manager Randee Mazur informed the council that two township police officers have been assigned to monitor any criminal activity related to the encampment. She reported that one arrest has been made, and officers are working to address other resident concerns.
The township is coordinating with Bucks County and nonprofit organizations to assist the homeless population and clean up the area, Mazur said.
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Mazur explained that the encampment is located on PennDOT property between Schumacher Drive and Route 13.
Efforts are underway to pull together resources to resolve the situation, Mazur said.
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The township police department is collaborating with the district attorney’s office to take a more proactive approach, Council President Craig Bowen stated.
Councilperson Patrick Antonello added that the township plans to support the homeless individuals while improving the neighborhood for residents. Multiple encampments within the township are being targeted for assistance.
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Bowen mentioned that the township is considering asking PennDOT to sell some of the wooded areas for residential development.
Mazur noted that 91–1 and non-emergency police calls are being tracked to highlight the need for more support in Bristol Township. She stressed that the township has communicated to state officials that “Bristol Township residents are fed up.”
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Another Beaver Dam Road resident reported suspected drug activity within the encampment. He recounted an incident where a neighbor checking on the situation was assaulted.
The man expressed pressing concerns about potential drug trafficking and prostitution tied to the homeless encampment and a house where some are staying at in the neighborhood.
A third Beaver Dam Road resident mentioned that local police have been limited in their response because the property is owned by PennDOT. However, Mazur noted that township officials have improved relationships with PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to address issues on their properties.
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If you are experiencing homelessness or a housing-related crisis, there are several resources available to help you in Bucks County:
Bucks County Housing Link: Centralized point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing-related crisis. Helpline: 1-800-810-4434
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Advocates for the Homeless & Those in Need (AHTN): Provides various forms of assistance and advocacy for the homeless. Contact: 215-550-3868 ext. 101
Coalition to Shelter and Support the Homeless (CSSH): Offers shelter on Code Blue Shelter nights and links homeless and financially distressed individuals to necessary resources. Additional programs include Outreach Meals; check the website for more details. Contact: 1-866-390-0291 ext. 703
Reach Out Foundation Day Center: Provides laundry, showers, and computer access for Bucks County residents. Contact: 215-970-5462
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Valley Youth House: Shelter for youth. Contact: 215-442-9760
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