Leland residents express concerns of homeless people residing underneath U.S. 17 bypass

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Some Leland residents are expressing concerns over homeless individuals in parts of the area. 

WWAY spoke with town leaders on Monday to hear how they’re addressing these concerns. 

A fire that happened in Leland over the weekend is sparking conversation about homeless individuals in the town. The fire broke out near Reed Road behind Food Lion. 

WWAY reached out to the town of Leland about the blaze. The town released a statement, which reads: 

“Leland Fire/Rescue crews responded to a fire at an apparent homeless camp behind the Reed Road Food Lion just before 1 Saturday afternoon. When they arrived, a camper, items around the camper, and the immediate woods were on fire. Crews extinguished the fire, no one was hurt.” 

WWAY also asked the town of Leland about reports that homeless people were living under the U.S. 17 bypass where U.S. 133 enters downtown Leland. 

A spokesperson with the town responded with a statement, which reads: 

“We are aware of one person who has been residing under the bridge located at Village Road and the 74/76 overpass. The bridge is NCDOT property. We have been working with nonprofits and our state partners to help relocate the person.” 

WWAY also reached out to the Brunswick County Homeless Coalition. They said they have offered assistance to homeless individuals in the Leland area numerous times.