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NYC Bus Stops: Chelsea Residents Advocate for More Shelters and Seating Amidst Growing Accessibility Concerns
Table of Contents
- 1. NYC Bus Stops: Chelsea Residents Advocate for More Shelters and Seating Amidst Growing Accessibility Concerns
- 2. DOT’s Response and Future Plans
- 3. comparing NYC to Other Cities
- 4. To what extent could community partnerships and innovative designs mitigate the challenges faced in providing adequate amenities at bus stops in New York City?
- 5. NYC Bus Stop Accessibility: An Interview with Transit Advocate, sarah Chen
March 23, 2025
New Yorkers, particularly in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, are increasingly vocal about the need for improved bus stop infrastructure. the focus is on providing adequate seating and shelters to protect commuters from inclement weather and enhance accessibility for all riders.
Manhattan Community Board 4 took formal action on January 6, 2025, by sending a letter to the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to prioritize the installation of benches and shelters along West 23rd Street. This request reflects the growing needs of the community, particularly its aging population.
The board’s letter highlighted the notable increase in the number of senior residents in Chelsea. Between 2010 and 2020, the population of those 65 and older surged by over 40%. This demographic shift underscores the urgent need for agreeable and accessible public transportation options.
Accessibility is a core concern for the community.West 23rd Street is home to Selis Manor, a housing and community facility catering to the blind and visually impaired. The Community Board 4 letter explicitly stated, “These residents, who rely on our bus network, must have a comfortable place to sit and wait for the bus.” The letter requested the DOT to prioritize shelter installations at specific locations, including 8th Avenue (south side), 7th avenue (north side), 10th and 11th Avenues (both sides), and 12th Avenue (north side).
Acknowledging that shelters may not be feasible at every location due to space constraints, the board also requested the installation of benches with back support, particularly on the north side of 9th Avenue, where benches are currently absent. They also suggested a shelter be installed at the stop east of Selis Manor,even though it falls outside the board’s immediate district,demonstrating the importance of accessible transit for all.
Miriam Fisher, a Chelsea resident and advocate for disabled New Yorkers, emphasizes the widespread need for improved bus stop amenities across the city. Ther is a need for comfort and protection
, she stated. Some people do need to sit and can’t stand and wait for a bus. It’s for all of us who don’t want to be in extreme weather, waiting in an unprotected area by a pole with no shelter from rain, snow, hail, and all the range of climate issues that have gotten worse and more extreme.
Jean Ryan, president of Disabled in Action Metropolitan NY, echoed this sentiment, stressing the necessity of shelters with benches and wheelchair-accessible spaces at all bus stops. People with disabilities need bus shelters with benches at all bus stops, especially since the city often wants to space out the stops so they are further apart
, Ryan said. Not everyone can stand and wait. The shelters need to have space for a wheelchair, too.
These advocates highlight a critical point: accessible public transportation is not just about getting from point A to point B; its about ensuring the journey is dignified and comfortable for everyone, irrespective of age or ability. The lack of seating and shelter disproportionately affects senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, and anyone with mobility issues.
The absence of adequate bus stop infrastructure can have significant consequences. Such as, seniors may avoid using public transportation altogether, leading to social isolation and reduced access to essential services like healthcare and groceries. Individuals with disabilities may face increased physical strain and risk of falls while waiting for the bus.
DOT’s Response and Future Plans
The DOT has acknowledged receipt of Community Board 4’s letter.We are reviewing the letter and are committed to expanding the number of bus shelters equitably and along high-ridership routes across the city
, a spokesperson for the agency stated.
Currently, new York City boasts approximately 3,500 bus shelters, with around 50 new installations in 2024. The DOT plans to add an additional 300 shelters over the next two years.
However, the DOT faces challenges in expanding bus shelter coverage. Shelter installation is contingent upon adequate sidewalk space to meet safety and accessibility requirements. all new shelters must maintain a minimum clear path of 7 feet in width, in addition to other spacing and design considerations. These constraints can limit the feasibility of installing shelters in densely populated areas with narrow sidewalks.
Jesse Greenwald, co-chair of Manhattan Community Board 4’s Transportation Planning Committee, emphasized the importance of these improvements. As we highlight in our letter, they provide a place for elderly, disabled, and tired commuters to rest while waiting for the bus, offering relief in a city where public transit is a lifeline
, Greenwald explained.Shelters protect riders from harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow and extreme heat, making public transportation a more reliable, practical, and dignified option.
comparing NYC to Other Cities
New York City is not alone in grappling with the challenge of providing adequate bus stop amenities. Many major U.S. cities face similar issues, particularly in older, densely populated areas.however, some cities have implemented innovative solutions that could serve as models for NYC.
As an example, in Seattle, King County Metro has partnered with local businesses to create “Transit Retail Partnerships.” Businesses located near bus stops agree to provide seating and shelter for transit riders in exchange for increased foot traffic and visibility. This model offers a cost-effective way to expand bus stop amenities while supporting local businesses.
In Chicago, the city has experimented with “Cool Streets” initiatives, incorporating green infrastructure and shade trees into bus stop designs to mitigate the urban heat island effect. These projects not only provide shelter from the sun but also enhance the overall streetscape and improve air quality.
Portland, Oregon, has implemented a thorough bus stop improvement program that prioritizes accessibility and safety. The city has invested in curb ramps, tactile paving, and high-visibility crosswalks to ensure that bus stops are accessible to people with disabilities.
To what extent could community partnerships and innovative designs mitigate the challenges faced in providing adequate amenities at bus stops in New York City?
NYC Bus Stop Accessibility: An Interview with Transit Advocate, sarah Chen
Archyde News: Welcome, Sarah. Thank you for joining us today. we’re discussing the growing calls for improved bus stop infrastructure in New York city, especially in areas like Chelsea. As a transit advocate, what’s your outlook on the current situation?
Sarah chen: Thank you for having me. The need for more shelters and seating at NYC bus stops is clear. Its not just about convenience; it’s about dignity and accessibility for all riders.We’re seeing a real push from communities, and rightly so.
Archyde News: Absolutely. Reports highlight the increase in senior residents and persons with disabilities in areas like Chelsea. How does the lack of adequate amenities specifically impact these communities?
Sarah Chen: It’s a significant issue. For seniors, standing for extended periods can be challenging and lead to isolation if they avoid public transit altogether. For individuals with disabilities, the lack of seating and shelter creates very real physical barriers, making it challenging to access essential services and maintain independence. these deficiencies also impact the experiences of parents with young children, pregnant women, and anyone with mobility issues.
Archyde News: The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) is planning to add more shelters. Do you think this expansion aligns with the needs of the community?
Sarah Chen: While the DOT’s plans to add 300 shelters are a step in the right direction, it’s crucial that these additions are strategically placed to address the most pressing needs. The goal is for accessibility for all, especially in high-ridership areas and where there’s a high concentration of the vulnerable populations that we talked about previously. It’s a matter of equity.
Archyde News: We’ve seen some innovative approaches in other cities, such as Seattle’s partnerships with local businesses to create “Transit Retail Partnerships.” Could such models work in NYC?
Sarah Chen: Absolutely, the potential is huge. Exploring partnerships, like Seattle’s model, could yield positive results. Chicago’s “Cool Streets” initiatives, incorporating green infrastructure, are also worth considering. We need to think creatively and consider a mix of solutions. The goal is ensuring comfort for all.
Archyde News: Space limitations are a constant challenge in new York City.What other solutions or compromises could the city consider?
Sarah Chen: Even where full shelters aren’t possible, benches with back support provide significant relief. Also,we can have more creative architectural designs that can both blend in and accommodate riders for both seating and protection against the elements.
Archyde News: What is the most pressing aspect regarding improving the current conditions?
Sarah Chen: Accessibility needs to be at the heart of this. Are we ensuring that we provide the amenities so that transportation will meet the needs of our commuters? Are we ensuring our communities are safe? Are we creating an environment that is fair for everyone? It’s not merely about transport, it’s about supporting a dignified daily journey.
Archyde News: Sarah, what should the public do to actively engage in the process?
Sarah Chen: That’s a great question. Community boards play a significant role, so attending meetings and voicing your concerns is paramount. Reaching out to local representatives,writing letters,and sharing your experiences is a crucial part of having your voices heard.
Archyde News: Thank you for your insightful contribution today, Sarah. Do you have any final thoughts for our readers and perhaps a key point about the lack of bus stop amenities that you would like them to consider?
Sarah Chen: I would encourage readers to think about those small moments of the transit experience – like waiting for a bus on a freezing day. These often overlooked aspects directly effect a lot of commuters daily. What can we collectively do to improve this experience?
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| City | Innovative Approach | Potential Benefits for NYC |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | Transit Retail Partnerships | Cost-effective expansion of amenities, support for local businesses |
| Chicago | Cool Streets Initiatives | Mitigation of urban heat, improved air quality, enhanced streetscape |