The Hunt for Work Fosters Tension

"I don't want it to be seen as it's one race against another," Chandler said. "I understand they're trying to make a better living for themselves, but it shouldn't impact those who want the same things they want and are doing it correctly."

Senior citizens are disturbed that the workers ask them for money, food and jobs, Chandler said.

Charlotte Blair, 67, and her, husband, Thomas, 66, have lived in Brentwood since 1971. Although she said she's never been harassed by the day laborers, Blair no longer walks alone.

"It's kind of a scary situation," Blair said. "Women walking up through there with a whole group of men. I just don't feel comfortable. I would like to see the place cleared."

Merrit Drucker, director of the D.C. Community Relations and Services, said the city plans to clean up trash and debris and work with Home Depot and the neighbors to find a solution.

"Any tension and racial disharmony, conflicts and misunderstanding are extremely important to me," Drucker said. "I want to take care of it quickly."

Staff writer N.C. Aizenman contributed to this report.