Kicking Grandma To The Curb

Why Cities Should Partner Up on Bus Stop Benches

Let’s nerd out together. It turns out one of the most climate-friendly things you can do—aside from eating kale and turning off the lights—is riding the bus. Compared to driving alone, taking public transit cuts CO₂ emissions by 45%. That’s not just greener—it’s cleaner. Cleaner air, healthier lungs, and fewer kids wheezing through asthma attacks.

But here’s the catch: we’re asking people to save the planet… while sitting on the curb.

It’s time to give our bus riders, many of whom are commuting to work, running errands, or heading to class, a seat that isn’t the sidewalk.

🧠 The Data is Loud and Clear

• 62% of bus riders use transit every single day.
• 44% are going to work. Another 22% go to school. These aren’t leisurely joyrides.
• The average trip is 5 miles, shorter than the average wait.
• And guess what? Most riders are between 25 and 54 years old, but 17% are 65 years old or older. Pretty sure Grandma shouldn’t be perched on a milk crate.

Oh, and let’s not forget: 71% of riders are employed, and they contribute $125 billion annually to the economy. These are the people helping prop up local businesses and fuel growth, one fare at a time.

💡 So, Why Benches?

Because the second most crucial issue for transit riders (after “does the bus show up?”) is “can I sit while I wait?” That’s it. Not Wi-Fi. Not solar panels. A bench. And for older riders and those with mobility challenges, an ADA-compliant seat isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

🧩 The Missing Piece? Public-Private Partnerships

City budgets are stretched, but here’s the kicker:  You don’t have to do this alone. There are zero-cost, maintenance-free partnerships available to provide benches at bus stops. Private partners cover the cost, cities get infrastructure improvements, riders get a little dignity, and everyone wins.

Let’s stop haggling over how to provide a place to sit and start offering riders the basic respect they deserve.

They’re saving the world, one trip at a time. Maybe it’s time we saved them… a seat.

🚏 Interested in exploring a no-cost bench program for your city?

Let’s talk. This isn’t about furniture. It’s about equity, climate, health, and the economy, all wrapped up in a bench.  At COA, we understand the importance of creating inviting public spaces. That’s why we offer cost-free, maintenance-free, and worry-free public seating programs. With over 300 successful partnerships and 40 years of experience, COA is a trusted leader in the industry.