FREMONT, Calif. (KGO) — Fremont city officials have cleared out a homeless encampment at Isherwood Park to make way for maintenance, vegetation removal, and improvements focused on fire safety.

Veronica Sanchez was among those impacted, gathering the last of her belongings at Isherwood Park on Monday as crews began the cleanup. Sanchez has lived in the park for five years and, like others, is now forced to move out.

“Very emotional,” Sanchez said. “Just a lot going on, a lot having to deal with.”

ABC7 witnessed another resident pulling a shopping cart full of personal items from the park. More than three dozen people have called this encampment home.

The temporary closure of Isherwood Park, located at Isherwood Way and Quarry Lakes Drive, began Monday. A full park closure—including for current residents—will start on November 14 and is expected to last through early 2026.

The city states that the park is undergoing renovations to improve fire safety, protect waterways, and enhance accessibility. However, for residents like Sanchez, the closure represents the loss of their home.

“We all prefer to stay,” Sanchez said. “We’ve all been here for a long time, so we’re all close.”

According to a Fremont city spokesperson, the city has offered shelter to approximately 40 people. The process of moving residents into shelters will take place over the next two weeks, with staff providing assistance in phases. Ultimately, the goal is to move people into permanent, stable housing.

In February, the Fremont City Council approved a proposal that bans camping on public property, a move that has been described by some nonprofit leaders as the “most restrictive” in California.
https://abc7news.com/post/least-40-people-removed-fremont-homeless-encampment-isherwood-park-fire-safety-maintenance/18108751/