The GNWT will be adding a portable toilet and temporary fencing at the homeless encampment by Fraser Tower in Yellowknife.

"These are two items that have been recommended by both residents of the neighbourhood and people in the encampment as measures that can reduce disruption and protect the health and safety of all involved," said Adetoyeke Adedipe, a senior communications officer for the GNWT. "Encampment residents are aware that this is a temporary measure, as this site must be returned vacant to Housing NWT in mid-September so that they can begin renovations to the Aspen Apartments."

Colton Migwi, who has been living at the homeless encampment by Fraser Tower since its inception in mid-August, acknowledged the impending search for a new location. 

"The building next to us is going to be renovated in less than three weeks, so we're going to have to move," he said.

The encampment sits on a GNWT-owned parking lot located at the end of 51 Street. As far as Migwi understands, the temporary fence in question will wrap around the entire parking lot.  

He said the encampment has grown in size to at least 25 people consistently. Migwi added that the site has reached capacity.

"I don't mean to turn people away, but this parking lot is pretty much full and we can't take in anymore," he said, adding, "we're always short on food and water, which is a struggle, but I keep reminding people to go the day shelter and have something to eat and shower."

Adedipe noted that the territorial government, the City of Yellowknife and non-governmental partners are working to find shelter alternatives for unhoused people within the next few weeks.