The Department of Transportation (DOT) CityBench program installs durable benches at bus stops, in retail corridors, and in areas with large numbers of senior citizens. Using funds from the federal government, the CityBench program increases the amount of public seating on New York City streets, making streets more comfortable for transit riders and pedestrians, especially those that are older or disabled.

The first set of locations will be bus stops that do not meet requirements for bus shelters. The installations will be distributed throughout all five boroughs.

A CityBench is for use by the general public and is not restricted to tenants of any particular building or patrons of any particular business.

Learn more about the CityBench program.

Cost

DOT covers the costs of installing the benches. The CityBench program is funded by a $2.4 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration.

Bench Location Requirements

A CityBench requires a minimum sidewalk width of 12 feet from building to curb. It can't be placed directly opposite a building entrance or cellar door.