by Lynn Terlaga,
There would be no Disneyland, or Walt Disney World if good ole Walt hadn’t taken a rest on a park bench. Legend has it that the bench is still on display at Disneyland. “It may have all started with a mouse, but Disneyland started with a bench.”
Okay, so maybe it was a park bench, but it was a bench, nonetheless. And I’m going with it. What does that have to do with a bus bench? It’s this. Sometimes we need to sit and rest. Mayor John Bauters said it best after seeing his constituent leaning against a garbage can, waiting for the bus: “You don’t need to study whether or not people need to sit — especially people who are older, people who have mobility issues, people with children, people who’ve walked a long the way, or who are carrying things.” Benches can be a lifesaver for people who are tired, have mobility issues, or are carrying heavy objects.
A simple bus bench provides a courtesy, a luxury to some of us after a long day. A bench in any public space provides a place to rest, ponder life, watch the world go by, and a chance to connect with humanity beside us. In our fast-paced, cellphone-addicted lives, a bench is a random old-school, low-tech, slow-me-down-to-breath resting spot.
Today we hear about the importance of “placemaking” in our cities and towns. Although something like a bench is just a small part of it, “Placemaking can empower communities to create a sense of belonging”. It can foster communication and sociability. Benches can provide a space for people to meet new people and make connections. They can also be a place for people to relax and chat with friends and family. When people see each other sitting on benches, it can help to create a sense of connection and belonging. Providing us with something so much more than just a seat.
So the next time you’re out walking, stop and sit, and take a rest, I’m not saying you’ll discover the next Disneyland, but hey, you never know.
If you’re a municipality or transit authority interested in creating resting spots in your neighborhood, reach out. We have over 250 partnerships and can create one that works for you.
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