Take a seat, NYC!
After countless hours spent standing, leaning, and wishing for a simple perch, commuters and bus riders across New York City can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The city is making a massive $40 million investment to install nearly 9,000 new seats—benches and leaning bars—at eligible bus stops across the five boroughs, transforming the daily commute from a grueling stand-off into a comfortable wait, especially as the weather gets colder.
On October 30th, Mayor Eric Adams announced that the investment would cover over approximately 8,750 eligible bus stops–specifically those located on public property and possessing sufficient space on the sidewalk or island.
These updates are crucial for the accessibility of New York City transit, and will be a game-changer for those with disabilities, parents traveling with children, and anyone who could use a seat.
The updates will begin this November, on a basis of 875 stops per year over the course of the next decade. Existing seating will be maintained as well.
Mayor Adams said:
To make New York City the best place to raise a family, and grow old in, we have to take care of the big things and the small things…I am proud that this effort will give New Yorkers a break and transform the bus-riding experience for thousands of people.
Currently, seating is absent from nearly two-thirds of the eligible bus stops throughout the five boroughs, making feats as simple as going to the grocery store not properly accessible. Across the city, however, seating elements have been installed at over 5,000 bus stops to date.
The DOT is responsible for inspecting and maintaining seating at more than 2,600 locations, including those on sidewalks and in plazas throughout all five boroughs.
Jolyse Race, senior organizer of the Riders Alliance, said:
Bus riders deserve a seat at the table and a seat at every bus stop…bus riders work the jobs that make New York possible, and we have earned the respect of a safe, comfortable place to wait for service.
🚌 What to Know
- 🏙️ Every borough, every neighborhood: About 8,750 bus stops across all five boroughs will get seating over the next 10 years.
- 🪑 Comfort for everyone: The new seating will make waiting for the bus easier for seniors, people with disabilities, parents with kids, and anyone who needs to rest.
- 🚏 Better upkeep: DOT will keep maintaining all existing benches and leaning bars to make sure they stay safe and comfortable.
- 🚦 Safer streets ahead: This effort also supports Vision Zero and Safe Streets for Seniors, helping reduce crashes and make city streets safer for everyone.
🗓️ Timeline
- Starting November 2025: Installation begins.
- Each year (2025–2035): About 875 bus stops will get new benches or leaning bars.
- By 2035: Every eligible bus stop in NYC will have seating!
Learn more about the updates on the NYC Gov Site!