New public safety initiative focuses on East Lancaster corridor

New public safety initiative focuses on East Lancaster corridor

Published on March 03, 2026

In October 2025, Homeless Outreach and Programs Enforcement (HOPE) officers and area stakeholders observed a significant increase in illegal street camping that obstructed sidewalks and portions of roadways near the 2400 block of Cypress Street and 1500 E. Presidio St. This area is also responsible for a disproportionally high amount of violent crime when compared to other parts of the city. In 2025, there were 171 citations in the area.

Early in November 2025, a notice was distributed to individuals experiencing homelessness in the area, as well as to nearby resource centers and shelters. The notice was provided as a courtesy and outlined applicable ordinances related to prohibited camping, obstruction of roadways and unauthorized private use of streets and sidewalks.

By Nov. 13, the HOPE Unit conducted a large-scale cleanup throughout the East Lancaster corridor with assistance from Environmental Services, Animal Control and other City departments. The cleanup was successful in removing illegal campsites, waste and debris. The success of the cleanup effort was short-lived, and within days, the area returned to its prior condition.

In January, a new public safety initiative was launched with an emphasis on sustainable outcomes and enhanced safety for both individuals experiencing homelessness and the volunteers and advocates working in the East Lancaster corridor, which is bounded by Cypress Street and East Presidio Street. The initiative is a collaborative effort among HOPE, Central Patrol, Central Bikes, Homeless Strategies, Environmental Services and other area partners. The overall goal is to maintain a safe, clean and crime-free environment for this vulnerable population and those providing services to them.

The HOPE team is one division of the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) that has seen notable success in recent years. The team works alongside community outreach organizations like MHMR, the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition, the JPS Health Network and others.

Photos: A cleanup in the area of Cypress and East Presidio streets was successful in removing illegal campsites, waste and debris.

Get articles like this in your inbox. Subscribe to City News.

• Community Safety