Following the promised start of enforcement this week of Traverse City's ban on camping in public parks, authorities cleared out the Pines homeless encampment off Eleventh Street Wednesday and cordoned off the property with police tape.

In an email to city commissoners, City Manager Liz Vogel said the Traverse City Police Department, Traverse City Fire Department, Grand Traverse Sheriff's Office, Michigan State Police, Mobile Medical Response, Northern Michigan Mutual Aid Task Force, and city staff coordinated to clear the site. Authorities entered the Pines at 7:40am, with the property determined to be clear at 9:10am. 

"I am pleased to report that the Pines are clear of campers this morning," Vogel wrote. "No citations issued, no arrests, no protestors." She said four totes were provided to Pines residents for personal belongings, and "one dressser will be stored for an individual." Vogel added: "Although this is a pivotal moment for Traverse City and the region, this is not a moment of celebration. Housing solves homelessness. The work continues."

City commissioners voted unanimously Monday to approve a special land use permit that will allow Safe Harbor to operate its emergency shelter on Wellington Street year-round. With the facility now available this summer to individuals experiencing homelessness, the city began its promised enforcement of its no-camping ordinance. Pines residents have been warned for several weeks about the looming enforcement, according to the TC Police Department, and offered connections to support services. Individuals who attempt to return to the Pines can be issued citations or face arrest for trespassing.