Disability advocates and some riders are voicing strong opposition to the city’s new initiative to add benches and leaning bars to NYC bus stops around the city.

Specifically, it is the possibility of more leaning bars than benches that has commuters concerned.

The concerns stem from the initiative announced by the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) on Oct. 30, which features the installation of benches or leaning bars at approximately 8,750 eligible bus stops throughout the five boroughs.

Advocates told amNewYork that they welcome new benches, but leaning bars undermine accessibility standards and exclude many vulnerable riders from resting their feet while waiting for the bus. It is especially concerning for them in a city where the average bus speed is only 8 mph.

“A lot of olde

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