MODESTO, Calif. — Caves equipped with tables, chairs and even beds — that's what officials in Modesto say the homeless along the Tuolumne River were living in, up until a clean-up last weekend.
Police tape and barricades went up Wednesday along the river near Crater Avenue and Dallas Street in Modesto, meant to keep the homeless out.
“They’re building some interesting caves," said Brian Brandenburg, who lives in the neighborhood and walks his dog along the river every day.
Brandenburg always knew the homeless sought shelter in the area but didn’t know to what extent, until volunteers and officers with Modesto Police’s Community Health and Assistance Team cleaned up the area on Saturday.
“Honestly, I just started laughing and said how creative they were," said Brandenburg of the caves.
The weekend clean-up exposed eight caves dug into the river bed, as wide as 10 feet, according to volunteers. While some neighbors had safety concerns learning about the caves inches away from the waters of the Tuolumne River, others asked where else the homeless would go.
“I know it’s dangerous, but they’re also out in the elements," said Brandenburg. "What’s (more) dangerous? Freezing or starving, or living in a cave that I’m sure they know how they built and they know how sturdy it’s going to be?"
In a statement, the City of Modesto said that placing barricades to block the caves would be the first step to securing the area.
"In addition, the area will see an increase of law enforcement, fire department, and City staff to assist in monitoring the area. Upon request, City personnel can provide information and resources to those who may need shelter and social services," the statement said. "The City recognizes the importance of not only addressing the immediate safety risks but also working towards a comprehensive solution to permanently eliminate these caves. Our commitment is to navigate this situation with diligence, taking into account the structural safety of the surrounding areas. The safety and well-being of our community remain our top priorities, and we appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our residents during this process. The City of Modesto will also be placing signage along the affected areas informing people not to trespass due to safety concerns. We encourage those using the area to remain vigilant of unsafe and fenced-off areas."
In a Facebook post, Modesto police said that officials offered resources to transition the homeless from the caves into shelter or housing over the weekend.
However, for some neighbors like Brandenburg, the caves aren't a problem.
"Let them have their peace, they’re out of everybody’s way," said Brandenburg. “I mean, it’s getting them out of the weather, it’s not hindering anybody and I thought it was a good idea they did it.”
Watch more from ABC10: $16 million for homeless housing in Modesto | What we know
