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Street furniture
Sidewalks should be continuous and be part of a system that provides access to goods, services, transit, and homes. Well designed walking environments are enhanced by urban design elements and street furniture such as benches, bus shelters, trash receptacles and water fountains.
Sidewalks and walkways should be kept clear of poles, sign posts, newspaper racks, and other obstacles that could block their paths or become a tripping hazard. Benches, water fountains, bicycle parking racks and other street furniture should be carefully placed to create an unobstructed path for pedestrians. Such areas must also be properly maintained and kept clear of debris, overgrown landscaping, tripping hazards, or areas in which water accumulates and causes problems for pedestrians.
Walking areas should also be interesting for pedestrians and provide a secure environment. Storefronts should exist at street levels and walking areas should be well lit and have good sight lines.
This is a good example of a street furniture zone along the sidewalk on Portland, Oregon's light rail transit line.
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The material provided on this page is from the FHWA publication
"Pedestrian Facilities User Guide." This guide is currently under review
by practicioners and others in the field. Subsequently, the material
provided on this page is subject to change in the future.
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Purpose:
• Enhance the pedestrian environment.
• Enliven commercial districts by fostering community life.
Considerations:
• Good-quality street furniture will show that the community values its public spaces and is more cost effective in the long run.
• Include plans for landscape irrigation and maintenance at the outset.
• Ensure proper placement of furniture; do not block pedestrian walkway or curb ramps.
Estimated Cost:
Varies depending on the type of furniture, the material out of which it is constructed, and the amount of plant material used.
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