Wichita to start removing what’s left of homeless camp by Chapin Park

0WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The City of Wichita has closed off access to the former homeless encampment near Chapin Park.

The city's deadline to clear out came on Monday. The area, which had been considered a safe haven for homeless people, is now completely empty.

Crews are bringing in heavy equipment to clear what's left of the encampment. That work will start Wednesday.

Homeless encampment near Chapin Park largely empty amid city order to vacate

A city spokesperson told KSN that due to the size of the area, which is owned by the state, it will likely take around four weeks to clear out.

The path that leads to the encampment has been closed by police, who are no longer letting anyone in. The city said it will stay restricted while work is ongoing for the safety of officers, outreach personnel and service providers.

Advocates for the homeless said most who lived in the camp have either gone to shelters or simply moved to other encampments nearby.