City authorities in San Francisco, California, working closely with federal partners, have stepped up security measures in response to rising concerns about homelessness and potential demonstrations as the city prepares to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. The announcements came from the city’s Emergency Operations Center, which coordinates local, state, and federal readiness efforts.
City Police Chief William Scott emphasized that security remains a top priority. He outlined a comprehensive readiness posture, with officers deployed to key intersections and public spaces, an expanded presence of armed units, and the installation of reinforced barriers in select zones to deter crowd disturbances and maintain orderly routes for delegates and attendees.
As summit activities approach, officials have directed the clearance of certain encampments near critical venues and transportation corridors. Residents and people living on the streets have been advised to relocate temporarily away from central areas for the duration of the summit period, reducing disruption to operations and ensuring safe travel for participants. The intention is to balance public safety with the city’s humanitarian obligations while maintaining access to essential services for all residents.
The broader security framework includes joint planning with federal partners, enhanced surveillance across strategic districts, and clear guidelines for incident response. Local law enforcement is prepared to respond swiftly to any protests or disruptions, while authorities stress that the objective is to preserve public safety without escalating tensions or infringing on civil rights. The coordination efforts reflect lessons learned from past large-scale events and a continued commitment to transparent, accountable policing during high-profile gatherings.
For context, officials reference ongoing discussions with national agencies on best practices for event security, crowd management, and protective measures. The aim is to ensure a safe environment for delegates, media, and residents alike, while upholding lawful avenues for peaceful expression and assembly.