City workers begin removal of encampment at Lamport stadium

Police on bikes, horses and unmarked cruisers began to surround Lamport Stadium in the early hours of Wednesday morning as city workers prepared to evict those experiencing homelessness living in the stadium.

Tresspass notices were given over a month ago, and an estimated 14 to 17 people are still living in the stadium.

In a press release on Wednesday, the City of Toronto said those experiencing homelessness “are being offered safe, indoor space, with access to meals, showers and laundry, harm reduction, physical and mental health supports, and a housing worker.”

Police were joined by private security members in large groups, and began erecting fences to keep people out of the park.

Since the spring, the city has moved to clear numerous homeless encampments from parks and other public spaces — including at Trinity Bellwoods and a partial clearing at Lamport Stadium.

The Encampment Support Network put out a call for supporters to show up at the stadium, located on King West. Protesters gathered as early as 5 a.m. to show their support.

A similar scene unfolded Tuesday at Alexandra Park, where the evictions lead to nine arrests.

A longtime freelance photojournalist working for The Canadian Press was arrested while reporting on the encampment clearing.

With files from Star staff