SPOKANE, Wash. — A local nonprofit that recently installed 29 benches at bus stops across Spokane says it wants to see more action from the Transit Authority on improving passenger amenities.
Spokane Reimagined placed the benches at bus stops across the city three weeks ago. The organization says it took matters into its own hands due to safety concerns and lack of adequate seating at transit stops.
“We saw a lot of people sitting on the sidewalk or even in the street while they were waiting for a bus,” said Sarah Rose, co-executive director of Spokane Reimagined. “And we saw that this is really dangerous, and we want the community to do more about it.”
The installation has generated positive responses from the community.
“We’ve gotten messages from so many different people, all sides of town, and visitors who want to be involved in making more benches and painting them,” Rose said. “The response from the city has also been really positive.”
However, Spokane Reimagined says it has not received the response it wants from Spokane Transit Authority. Rose said the organization has heard little from STA beyond acknowledgment that they like the benches.
At Thursday’s STA board meeting, Spokane Reimagined renewed its call for transit leaders to improve bus stop infrastructure. The organization is asking STA to install inexpensive temporary benches at bus stops while plans for permanent structures are developed.
Each bench costs approximately $60 to make, according to Spokane Reimagined. The group argues this represents a cost-effective interim solution while more comprehensive improvements are planned.
“First and foremost, stop seeking excuses to not do something,” said Erik Lowe, co-executive director of Spokane Reimagined.
Rose framed the issue as an opportunity for STA leadership.
“This is an excellent opportunity to kick off the new leadership year and set a new tone for how STA listens to its riders,” Rose said.
STA responded in an email stating that constructing additional benches and accompanying shelters would cost $12,000 each. The transit authority said benches can only be placed at stops that average 25 passengers per day.
The agency said it is currently working to install lights at existing covered bus stops. STA noted that adding more benches is included as a recommendation in its 30-year strategic plan.
Spokane Reimagined argues that riders cannot wait for long-term planning to be implemented. The organization contends that cheaper temporary benches should be installed immediately to address current safety and comfort concerns.
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