Periodic "cleanouts" aren't working and encourage moving the nuisance. These people need to be in touch with a social worker and if they do not accept the arrangements made for them, then they need to be in either jail, a mental hospital, or in many circumstances, back home with their parents. For example,a lot of the begging under the freeways (in addition to that done by the mentally ill contingent) appears to be very organized among a group of white teenagers who pool their resources to purchase pizza and other goodies, the remains of which they toss on the streets and sidewalks. There is a lot of outreach in Oakland and it can't be voluntary whether the help is accepted. Zero tolerance for public nuisance behavior.

Improve the appearance of the overpass with new lighting, murals, etc. Supply trash cans for the pizza crusts. Stop threatening the denizens with (police) violence and they won't threaten you. Focus on getting rid of the rodents, not people. These people are no more subhuman than you are. [removed]

Looks like Neighbor (and property owner) is the only one threatening violence.

Let's work together to find a solution. No finger pointing is going to get this issue resolved. No one has the right to take over a public right of way, and we definitely have responsibility to take care of people who need help. So, let's figure this issue out.

"No one has the right to take over a public right of way..." As a matter of principle (if not of law), that cuts both ways; it applies equally to yuppies and to "bums"! Public urination or defecation is one thing (objectively a health hazard), but calling people "bums" is a lifestyle judgment, and the right to impose such judgment on others should remain inside the walls of one's own home.

"Let's work together to find a solution"? Indeed, look again at the suggestions I've made above. "Together" means together -- all human beings included!

Thank you, N (&P.O>) for a thoughtful comment...you didn't need to resort to contemptuous slogans to be heard.