Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) – Restrictions on sitting, sleeping or lying on sidewalks could begin soon in Albuquerque in certain parts of the city. The city council voted Monday night by a 6 to 3 vote, to approve the “Enhanced Service and Safety Zone Ordinance” which would create commercial areas that will have increased city services such as sanitation and code enforcement but also increased police patrols.
Under the ordinance, it would be illegal to sit, sleep, lie or camp on public sidewalks, streets, bike paths or alleys inside these designated zones. The concern is that people that do this are blocking pedestrian passage under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Violations could carry penalties of up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail under the existing city code.
The ordinance says the zones are intended for commercial areas with high crime rates and recurring public safety concerns, including sidewalk obstructions and encampments…