Woman found living in LA sewer as homeless crisis deepens in Broadway-Manchester

A woman has been living in a cramped, 10-foot space inside a sewer near the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles. The unsanitary conditions highlight ongoing struggles with homelessness in the Broadway-Manchester area. Residents and activists are now calling for stronger action to address the crisis. The woman, who has expressed signs of mental distress, told local advocates she wants safer, permanent housing. Her situation is part of a wider issue, as neighbours report encampments and RVs creating hazards like trash dumping, vandalism, and drug use. Some have even cut wires, raising safety concerns.

Juan Naula, founder of the group *Clean LA With Me*, has documented the conditions and spoken with homeless individuals in the area. He argues that regular enforcement is needed to stop people from returning after cleanups. The city has responded to service calls, but delays of up to 90 days leave problems unresolved. City street sweepers have carried out superficial cleanups, yet the sewer remains in use. Officials plan to seal and secure the space, but Naula insists more must be done. A previous cleanup and tent removal took place in September 2025, but encampments soon reappeared.

The city faces ongoing pressure to improve conditions for both homeless residents and local communities. Plans to secure the sewer are underway, but activists stress the need for faster responses and long-term solutions. Without stronger measures, the cycle of displacement and return is likely to continue.