Frustration Near Menlo Park Safe Rest Village
Portland’s city code prohibits camping within 150 feet of Safe Rest Villages (SRVs). But neighbors living near the Menlo Park site in Southeast Portland say those rules have gone unenforced. Instead, they describe daily scenes of open drug use, trash accumulation, and illegal camping just steps away from the sanctioned shelter — and now they’re demanding stronger action from the city.
Early Optimism Fades
When the Menlo Park Safe Rest Village opened in 2022, some neighbors cautiously welcomed the project. Landlord Karen Alvarez told KOIN 6 News at the time that she was hopeful the city’s rules would prevent disruption.
“I noticed that it did clear out for a little while,” Alvarez said. “So, I almost feel like if the streets and sidewalks were kept clear, the village might be okay.”
But three years later, Alvarez says her optimism has faded. She claims her new tenants are left to contend with constant disturbances: screaming in the streets, vandalism, and sidewalks littered with used needles.
Residents Share Alarming Experiences
Other neighbors, who asked not to be identified, say conditions have worsened since the site opened. One recalled a frightening experience involving a trailer fire…