“Everybody that was parked up on Mission Bay Drive is now parked at Ski beach. It seems to be like the new spot,” said Sarah Bonesteel, a local resident.

SAN DIEGO — San Diego police are facing ongoing challenges in their efforts to enforce the city’s oversized vehicle ordinance in the Mission Bay area, despite increased enforcement measures implemented in early July. While some progress has been made, many oversized vehicles have simply relocated to nearby areas, creating new concerns for local residents and authorities.

“Everybody that was parked up on Mission Bay Drive is now parked at Ski beach. It seems to be like the new spot,” said Sarah Bonesteel, a local resident who has noticed the shift in vehicle locations.

The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) began intensifying enforcement of the city’s oversized vehicle ordinance in early July, which prohibits parking these vehicles on public streets and in lots between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. Lieutenant Matthew Botkin of the SDPD acknowledged the ongoing nature of the problem, stating, “We’re aware of that, and we adjust accordingly when it comes to outreach, when it comes to enforcement. And so we’re kind of following the flow.”

Since increasing enforcement efforts, the SDPD has issued 408 citations for oversized vehicle ordinance violations and an additional 1,036 citations for other infractions. The department’s approach prioritizes connecting individuals with services, such as safe parking lots, before resorting to citations.

“The process is always outreach at every step, but at some point we are going to take enforcement,” said Lieutenant Botkin.

The SDPD reports that 95 people have accepted referrals to services, with 25 individuals successfully placed in alternative accommodations. However, some vehicle dwellers, like Darrell Jennings, prefer their current situation to the available alternatives.

“This is a hard life. I’ve never been houseless before, and this is the hardest thing I’ve ever been through,” said Jennings. He cited a preference for the amenities at Ski Beach over safe parking lots, adding, “I like being out here a lot better. And it has a shower as restrooms, they’re always open.”

Lieutenant Botkin emphasized the need for patience in addressing the complex issue of homelessness and vehicle dwelling. “When you’re dealing with issues related to homelessness, the path to success is kind of long,” he said.

While the city operates five safe parking lots, including two that accommodate oversized vehicles, many individuals continue to park in unauthorized areas. The SDPD remains committed to ongoing enforcement and outreach efforts as they work to balance the needs of vehicle dwellers with community concerns.

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