In a bold move to enhance public transit access, the SF Bay Area Bench Collective has installed an additional 12 benches at various Muni bus stops across San Francisco.
This follows their initial actions in June when they introduced eight guerrilla benches at bus stops in the Mission District, addressing the lack of seating for waiting passengers.
Since then, the collective has expanded its efforts, now totaling 20 benches strategically placed in neighborhoods such as the Lower Haight, Bayview-Hunters Point, and Potrero Hill.
The benches, crafted from robust materials and exhibiting high-quality workmanship, have been well-received by the Muni-riding community, providing much-needed comfort for commuters.
However, the installation of these benches has not come without controversy.
SF Public Works has expressed disapproval, citing concerns over legal liability and the need for regulation regarding what can be placed on public sidewalks.
Rachel Gordon, a spokesperson for the department, emphasized the importance of oversight, stating, “There are real things a government needs to take into consideration.”
Despite this, the benches remain in place for now, with residents enjoying the convenience they provide.
The Bench Collective recently confirmed their latest installations, stating, “The first eight benches installed in the city, as well as over 80 benches at East Bay and North Bay bus stops, have been exceedingly well received.”
During this recent weekend, the group expanded their footprint, adding benches in multiple neighborhoods and highlighting their commitment to enhancing urban transit experiences.
A map detailing the locations of the benches shows the cumulative effects of their efforts: ten benches were installed in June, with property owners requesting the removal of two, while the latest additions now total 12 more.
Interestingly, while some residents have embraced these installations, others have voiced concerns. One neighbor near 21st and Potrero streets has requested the removal of a newly installed bench.
Not all locations were transformed equally; for instance, a bench now prominently sits at Cesar Chavez and Florida streets for northbound riders on the 27-Bryant line, while southbound riders benefit from a sanctioned Muni shelter directly opposite.
Additionally, 33-Ashbury riders can find a bench conveniently located at 18th and Dolores streets, right outside Dolores Park Cafe, enhancing comfort in a busy area.
While the benches have occasionally faced issues such as tagging, the collective has proactively recruited volunteers to maintain them.
In their most recent statement, the SFBABC expressed a desire for community involvement: “We encourage anyone who would like to adopt a bench to take a look at the adopters’ guide on our website and reach out.”
They have committed to maintaining all their benches and promptly addressing reports of any problems, regardless of whether those benches have been officially ‘adopted’ by community members.
Although SF Public Works indicated in July that they would request the removal of the unauthorized benches, the situation remains unresolved, as either the city has not followed through with their removal request or the collective has chosen to disregard it.
Regardless of the city’s stance, the SFBABC’s initiative has brought 12 new benches into public spaces where seating was previously non-existent, highlighting an ongoing dialogue about community-driven improvements to urban infrastructure.
image source from：sfist
