Altoona City Council is weighing a new ordinance to prohibit “urban camping” on public property, including sidewalks, parks, and benches. According to this mornings Altoona Mirror, the ordinance was inspired by a similar Pittsburgh policy, that aims to address rising complaints from local businesses and residents regarding harassment and littering. To avoid “criminalizing homelessness,” the city plans to seek funding from Operation Our Town to embed a social worker within the police department to lead initial outreach. Under the ordinance, city parks would be closed from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. Reportedly, city council will introduce the ordinance at its next meeting.
Tuesday 24th February 2026
