A prominent homeless encampment and another structure a stone's throw away are continuing to grow.
The homeless structure located across from the Niven Gate sign on 48 Street now has more bags, clothes and general clutter around it. It's unclear how many people are staying there, but the territorial government has told NNSL Media it will meet with whoever is staying there.
“We do not know how long this tent has been there,” said Jeanne Gard, communications manager for Housing NWT, referring to the structure, which features four wooden walls and a tarp-covered roof.
Gard said the GNWT will look to discuss regulations on GNWT property with those living there. She noted that across the territory, a number of informal homeless structures have been established on public lands.
"While we may not have documented every individual structure, we are committed to being responsive to any concerns that arise," she said. "Our team works in partnership with local social services and community organizations to assess and address issues as they emerge."
Gard explained that GNWT property is accessible to the public, so long as they abide by land use regulations.
“All members of the public who use this land must be cautious to avoid causing harm to themselves or other members of the public,” she noted.
Meanwhile, about 700 metres away, a homeless encampment located next to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is also getting larger. Residents at that encampment are building decks with donated supplies so they can have level ground to place their tents.
Karl Gardlund is one of those residents. He told NNSL Media about 12 people are staying at the encampment.
When the encampment was first situated downtown, Craig Strachan, a man who helped organize that encampment, said there were about six people there. That was at the end of May.
What he likes about the space, Gardlund said, is how quiet and open it is.
The open space makes it less risky for fires too, he added.
At the encampment is also a fire extinguisher. Gardlund said that was courtesy of the city's fire division.
Whether residents can also get portable toilets, Gardlund said he doesn't know, but he would hope so.
Asked how long he sees himself staying here, Gardlund said he doesn't have an answer. But, if it came down to it, he could see himself sticking around for the winter, he said.
"Possibly," said Gardlund. "I grew up like that."
