New Binghamton Initiative to Close Homeless Encampments

Binghamton officials say the city is going to take action to better deal with street homelessness that has been growing in recent years.

Mayor Jared Kraham said a new strategy will be used to permanently shut down encampments on riverfronts and public property throughout the city.

The mayor said street outreach teams "will work encampment-by-encampment" to move people from tents into homes.

Binghamton police shut down an encampment along the Susquehanna River near Conklin Avenue in November 2024. (File Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Kraham said the city will partner with Catholic Charities of Broome County to pay for housing subsidies for those who are living into encampments. Caseworkers will provide "intensive stabilization support" including mental health and substance use treatment.

Once encampments have been cleared, Binghamton's Department of Public Works will remove debris and city police "will enforce permanent closure of the public spaces to camping."

The project is being launched in conjunction with Community Solutions, a national organization that works with other communities to reduce homelessness.

Binghamton public works crews removed items from a riverside encampment on April 20, 2026 (File Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Binghamton is using $500,000 from the city's "general fund" and $500,000 in federal money for the first phase of the initiative.

According to a news release city councilmember Rebecca Rathmell said outreach teams have "talked with those living on our streets" about their needs and concerns.

Legislation to approve a contract with Catholic Charities is expected to be considered by city council Wednesday.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @bobjoseph.bsky.social on Bluesky or @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.