PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Homeless advocates and community organizations held a news conference on Wednesday to urge the city of Providence not to clear out two encampments. The Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness asked the city to halt an impending 48-hour notice to vacate, which it says will displace nearly 70 people. "The decision to raid these encampments is counterproductive, shortsighted, and dangerous for those staying there," the coalition said in a press release. The 1 p.m. event was held outside Providence City Hall. This story is being updated. Check back for more information. Rather than raid the encampments, the coalition believes the city should instead address the underlying issues related to homelessness. Organizers said they want city leaders to work collaboratively with encampment residents and outreach providers to increase the availability of shelter beds and affordable housing. RELATED: RI proposes ‘pallet shelters’ for homeless people near Providence strip club Earlier on Wednesday, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley told 12 News the city intends to go through with the raids since the encampments are "not safe, and they're not suitable for folks." One of the encampments is on the highway embankment between I-95 and Branch Avenue, according to Smiley, while the other is on Houghton Street. "It's not easy for police or fire or rescue to get to these sites. The encampment on I-95 would be one of the most difficult ones we've seen," Smiley said, adding that the Houghton Street site also has environmental concerns such as contaminated soil. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Watch Now: Livestreaming SIGN UP NOW