Marin County RV Encampment Exemplifies Bay Area's Housing Crisis

video by @abc7news

A particular road in Marin County has become emblematic of the escalating housing crisis in the Bay Area, which has only been exacerbated by the pandemic. This area, in close proximity to some of the nation's most affluent zip codes, is witnessing the expansion of an RV settlement referred to as Binford Road. The street, situated between Highway 101 and a wildlife sanctuary, is filled with trailers and motorhomes accommodating individuals who have no other options.

The circumstances at Binford Road serve as a microcosm of the broader issues of housing affordability and the homelessness crisis that the entire state faces. Elisa Mackey, a resident of the settlement, has experienced homelessness for three years. She emphasizes that the inhabitants of Binford Road are not bad people; they have merely had to make difficult decisions. It is estimated by the county that around 180 vehicles and 90 residents occupy the street, with many being forced into homelessness due to the pandemic.

Gordie, a resident of Binford Road for six years, remembers a time when only about five or six motorhomes lined the street. A video recorded four years ago illustrates the dramatic transformation of the area, which is now densely packed with RVs. As a response to the increasing population, the county has offered sanctioned resources such as weekly trash pickups, porta-potties, and handwashing stations.

Gary, the county's Director of Homelessness, asserts that the residents of Binford Road are family members, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles – neighbors who require assistance. County officials interact with the residents several days a week to hear their stories and discuss the support they might need to regain housing.

The primary objective for the county and its residents, including Elisa and Gordie, is to obtain permanent housing and employment. However, due to the ongoing housing crisis in the Bay Area, achieving this goal may be difficult for many individuals in similar situations throughout the region.

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