The City of Prince George is seeking approval to add gates at each end of Moccasin Flats to temporarily close the encampment to non-essential vehicle traffic
A report to council by Eric Depenau, director of administrative services, to be heard Wednesday, April 23, recommends restricting access to the site to emergency and city vehicles only. The proposed measure aims to address ongoing safety concerns, illegal dumping and traffic congestion at the Lower Patricia Boulevard site.
The encampment’s emergency access road, originally designed to allow fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles to reach the site, has become congested by increased vehicle traffic. This has hindered timely access for first responders, the report states
The proposed vehicle restrictions would not affect foot traffic, ensuring that individuals living at the encampment can continue to access the site. Emergency and authorized personnel, including city staff, RCMP, BC Ambulance and Prince George Fire Rescue, will be provided with keys to the gates to ensure that emergency services can continue without interruption.
Under the plan, gates would be installed at both ends of the Lower Patricia Boulevard right-of-way. The temporary closure would remain in place until the area is no longer used as a shelter for individuals.
City staff believe the measure will help reduce the number of recreational vehicles (RVs) and trailers brought to the site, Depenau wrote.
The encampment has been the site of several fire-related incidents involving RVs and trailers, which have become permanent fixtures for many of the individuals living there. Prince George Fire Rescue Services have responded to multiple fires since 2021, primarily involving vehicles that are not intended for full-time occupation.
“Several fires have occurred in these recreational vehicles,” the report states. “These structures are not intended for full-time occupation and have not been contemplated in previous legal decisions about the site.”
The report also highlights ongoing problems with illegal dumping at the encampment. City officials have found large items left behind by individuals occupying the area, suggesting that vehicles are being used to deposit unwanted goods.
