Palo Alto is preparing to confront the challenges presented by the rising population of RV dwellers on city streets, as complaints from local business owners have surged. City Manager Ed Shikada proposed various solutions, including potential bans on oversized vehicles and creating designated RV parking areas. However, financial constraints and the likelihood of legal disputes pose significant barriers to these proposals. The number of RV dwellers has significantly increased to approximately 200, largely due to changes made by Caltrans in local parking regulations.
"Homelessness is clearly one of, if not the most, vexing societal problems of our time," City Manager Ed Shikada acknowledged, emphasizing the complexity of addressing the issue of RV dwellers.
Shikada estimated that Palo Alto has 200 RV dwellers - double from 2023, indicating a significant rise in the number of individuals living in RVs in the city.
Complaints about RV dwellers increased sharply since the spring, coinciding with Caltrans' project, which eliminated all parking along El Camino Real in favor of bike lanes.
The city is considering various strategies such as banning oversized vehicles or paving over a baseball field for RV parking but faces potential legal challenges and funding issues.
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