In November, the shelter right across the street on 15th street opens for the winter. I think this brings many more homeless to the immediate area and I too am encountered much more frequently. Its particularly concerning as I walk alone to the metro at 6:30am.

Re: ASPAN
I actually just became aware of this last week:

http://www.arlnow.com/2010/11/08/a-look-inside-the-countys-emergency-winter-shelter/

The management of this place needs to be advised that the situation regarding these Bums is unacceptable. For their safety and for that of the public, this place needs to be shut down immediately and relocated... someplace far away.

The ACPD precinct is supposed to be monitoring this site, and should take note of the public's perception of their laid back, passive, reactive style of enforcement- or what is, in truth, non-enforcement.

This is only one small issue, and one example of this deficiency within their ranks... but that situation, or this issue isn't going to get fixed until someone gets out of the cruiser and performs community policing in the interest of it's citizens. It starts with ENFORCEMENT... of the LAWs.

(all of them! Not just tickets and taxes!)

There are more individuals whom are arrogant, loud, intimidating panhandlers. All are not like that some actually need assistance. Some are not alcoholics. Some are trying their best to get back on their feet, while the others are a nuisance. The bad ones have given the community no other option than to crack down on all panhandlers. Many panhandlers commute from DC and they are a real problem, loud mouthed, harassing women, and elderly. They should stay in DC. For those that really need help they run into many blocks and hurdles. Try getting an ID without an ID impossible, try to find a job impossible, try to get medical assistance or mental health treatment next to impossible unless arrested and court ordered. Business's in the Arlington County should encourage such persons to clean up in the front of their business and earn something for food.
If a panhandler bothers anyone they should be reported, but remember there are those with real needs and do not bother anyone.

Still not fixed. Getting worse and worse.