Norfolk Southern sent the request in a letter to Bethlehem Police.
Bethlehem Police recently received a letter from Norfolk Southern requesting the department remove a homeless encampment situated along the Lehigh River under the Hill-to-Hill Bridge.
Police Chief Michelle Kott said the letter asked that authorities place signs in the location of the encampment by September 15th as notice for people to relocate by December 15th.
Kott said police appreciate Norfolk Southern giving the department enough time to “circle the wagons” to find a solution in relocating the homeless people on the property.
The department has been in communication with the railway concerning recent complaints from residents in the Sand Island area.
“As the legal owner of the property in question, Norfolk Southern is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for both the community and our employees. Over the past several months, we have observed an increasing number of unhoused individuals establishing makeshift encampments on our property. While we are sympathetic to the hardships many of these individuals face, their continued presence has raised significant health and safety concerns,” said the letter, authored by Norfolk Southern Railway police Agent Maria Brogna.
Norfolk Southern argued the homeless encampment poses health and safety issues. These include open fires, improper waste disposal, and its proximity to an active track.
“Ensuring the safety of all members of our community is a top priority. In recent months, we have observed an increase in individuals seeking shelter near our train tracks — areas that pose serious safety risks due to active rail traffic and limited visibility. Out of concern for their well-being and the safety of the community, we are working closely with officials to address these safety concerns,” said a Norfolk Southern spokesman in a recent interview.
An estimate by the Bethlehem Health Bureau says there are about 91 homeless people across the city.
Police estimate there are a total of 30 to 35 people living under the bridge on Norfolk Southern’s property.
The Bethlehem Emergency Shelter plans to help house the individuals currently living in the encampment on Norfolk Southern’s property. It opens on November 1st for the colder months.
