Fact Check: "Harrisburg's homeless population faces eviction again due to I-83 expansion."
What We Know
The claim that Harrisburg's homeless population faces eviction due to the expansion of Interstate 83 (I-83) is based on ongoing construction plans that will impact a significant homeless encampment in the city. The I-83 widening project is set to begin on March 3, 2025, and will involve core drilling and other construction activities in the vicinity of a homeless encampment often referred to as "tent city" (PennLive). City officials have stated that they are working to minimize disruption and have engaged with the homeless community to inform them about the construction timeline and potential impacts (The Burg News).
The city has also indicated that it is implementing a "permanent and humane" plan to address homelessness in the area, which includes outreach and support for those affected by the construction (Local21 News). The city’s 2025 Annual Action Plan highlights ongoing efforts to fund homeless prevention and outreach activities, suggesting a commitment to supporting the homeless population during this transition (Annual Action Plan).
Analysis
While the claim that the homeless population faces eviction is partially true, it lacks nuance. The construction will indeed disrupt the encampment, but city officials have emphasized that they are taking steps to ensure that residents are informed and supported throughout the process. For instance, outreach teams have been visiting the encampment to provide information and resources, including ear plugs to mitigate construction noise (PennLive, The Burg News).
However, the term "eviction" implies a forced removal without support, which does not fully capture the city's approach. The city has stated that it aims to avoid surprises for the homeless residents and is actively working with them to manage the transition (PennLive). This proactive engagement suggests a more collaborative approach rather than a unilateral eviction.
The credibility of the sources used in this analysis is generally strong, as they come from established local news outlets and official city documents. However, it is essential to remain cautious about potential biases, especially in how the situation is framed by different media outlets. For example, while some reports focus on the disruption caused by construction, others highlight the city's efforts to provide support, which could influence public perception.
Conclusion
The verdict on the claim is Partially True. While it is accurate that the homeless population in Harrisburg will face disruptions due to the I-83 expansion, the characterization of this situation as an eviction does not fully reflect the city's efforts to engage with and support the affected individuals. The city is taking steps to mitigate the impact of construction and provide assistance to the homeless community, indicating a more humane approach than what the term "eviction" typically connotes.
Sources
- 2025 Annual Action Plan Public Comment Draft
- I-83 widening project construction to disrupt Harrisburg homeless camp ...
- I-83 construction will begin to impact large Harrisburg homeless ...
- City of Harrisburg finalizing 'permanent and humane' plan for homeless ...
- City of Harrisburg finalizing 'permanent and humane' plan for ...
- Homeless community in Harrisburg to be affected by I-83 ... - FOX43