The San Francisco Bay Area Bench Collective successfully installed eight benches at key bus stops in the Mission district, seeking to enhance accessibility and comfort for marginalized groups. Although one bench was quickly removed, early users expressed gratitude for the added seating, particularly those with mobility challenges like Mauricio Guevara. Unlike its experiences in the East Bay, where few benches faced removal, the collective encountered immediate pushback in San Francisco, highlighting local tensions around street space and public amenities. This grassroots initiative evolved from Safe Street Rebels, emphasizing community needs and activism in transit solutions.
Though one of the benches had already been removed as of Monday afternoon, early users were appreciative.
I rely on public transportation. I'm here every day. Last week, I would just stand against the trash can.
San Francisco is proving to be tougher. Only hours after their installation, two of the eight new benches - those placed along 30th Street - were removed.
The group grew out of Safe Street Rebels, specifically the work of member Mingwei Samuel and housing activist co-collaborator Darrell Owens.
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