City crew removes tents from wooded area under Monon Trail bridge

Three large tents sat in the woods beneath the Monon Trail bridge, just steps from the path where residents bike and jog. The city of Indianapolis scheduled a cleanup for Tuesday morning to remove the encampment and its contents.

Officials noted the site held a bathtub, a couch, and a child’s stroller. The area sits where the Fall Creek Trail intersects the bridge. Andrew Merkley, director of the Indianapolis Office of Public Health and Safety, said the city aims to keep trails clean, particularly along waterways.

The cleanup will use Federal Emergency Management Agency funds. City officials explained that the area suffered impacts from recent flooding. Merkley stated that the site contains debris, potential human waste, and other items that could affect the environment and local health.

City records show no one was living in the encampment at the time of the announcement. Officials said the people previously staying there were connected to homeless resources. The site is located in a busy corridor for outdoor recreation.

Dylan Zyrowski, a local resident who frequently bikes in the area, said he felt safe passing through. However, he noted that his mother felt unsafe while walking her children nearby. He welcomed the decision to clear the space.

Zyrowski also expressed sympathy for the individuals who had been staying there. He said it is heartbreaking to see people living on the streets. He added that he believes they are only a few life decisions away from a similar situation.

The city plans to complete the removal of the tents and debris on Tuesday. The work will focus on the wooded area directly under the bridge structure.