Bethlehem tent cities

This year was a terrible cycling season for me due to the loss of our family pup. Typically I would ride from Easton to Bethlehem along the D&L. This year would be my 3rd season of this. I got out last weekend when the Temps hit 70s and I couldn't help but notice that the population and size of the tent cities around the Sand Island have increased big time compared to last year. Curious if others agree or not.