Wooden benches appearing at bus stops across Bay Area. Who is behind them?

The San Francisco Bench Collective has installed nearly 90 benches in the East Bay and eight in San Francisco to enhance comfort at bus stops. Volunteers prioritize high-traffic locations lacking seating, with requests for new benches submitted via their website. Carter Lavin of the Transbay Coalition collaborates with the group, aiming to legalize the initiative as it currently operates in a legal gray area. San Francisco Public Works expressed concerns about maintenance, liability, and safety, particularly regarding incidents of graffiti vandalism. The city acknowledges the benches' potential public convenience but emphasizes the need for proper permits and oversight.

Despite city officials' hesitations, community members have shown enthusiasm, with many eager to volunteer or maintain the benches. The materials for each bench cost approximately $100, and some have already been removed by city authorities. The initiative reflects a grassroots effort to improve public transit infrastructure amid regulatory challenges.