Through the CityBench program, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is installing durable benches around the city at bus stops, in retail corridors, and in areas with large numbers of senior citizens to increase the amount of public seating on New York City streets. Using funds from the federal government, the CityBench program will make 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.

Learn more about the CityBench program.

You can request installation of a CityBench.

CityBench Costs

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

CityBench Requirements

A CityBench requires a minimum sidewalk width of 12 feet from building to curb. They cannot be placed directly opposite a building entrance or cellar door.

CityBench Use

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.

Any individual or organization can request installation of a CityBench. The adjacent property owner and local community board will be notified of the application. When requesting a bench, you can indicate your preference for a backed bench or a backless bench.

You can get a CityBench form. You can also submit the form online.

Online

Download the CityBench request form.

Submit your CityBench request online.

By Mail

Call 311 to request a paper copy.

Maintenance and Snow Removal

You can report damaged or missing benches to DOT. Benches may be relocated or removed by the City due to construction or other activity.

By law, property owners are responsible for keeping sidewalks around benches clean and cleared of snow.

Report a damaged or missing CityBench.

You can also email photos of damaged benches to citybench@dot.nyc.gov.

Removal or Relocation

If a bench needs to be relocated or removed due to construction activity, changes to bus stop locations, or another reason, you can send your request by email to citybench@dot.nyc.gov.

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