HSR expanding bus stop pole and bench combination pilot for customer seating

HAMILTON, ON – Through the (Re)envision the HSR project, the City of Hamilton’s Transit Division heard from customers that comfort and amenities at bus stops are important factors when choosing to use transit services.

Based on this feedback, to improve the customer experience by increasing customer satisfaction and meeting customer expectations, HSR is piloting a prototype combination of a bus stop pole and a bench for customer seating. HSR is exploring this as a potential solution for existing bus stops where conventional benches cannot be installed due to a lack of space.

Over the coming weeks, pole and bench combinations will be installed at existing stop locations throughout the city that meet the criteria of not having enough space for conventional benches. Customers will be able to test and provide further feedback on this pilot over the coming months.

About the Pilot:

• The initial test pole and bench combination was temporarily installed at the bus stop on Upper James at Rymal (northbound side) for customers to test and provide feedback. This frequently used stop was chosen to increase awareness by a larger number of customers.
• This prototype combination of a bus stop pole and a bench for customer seating is a potential solution for locations where conventional benches cannot be installed due to a lack of space.
• These seats are not intended for stops on major arterials or where other stop infrastructure (shelters, benches) are already in place.
• HSR staff consulted and implemented the design and location recommendations of the City of Hamilton’s Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities. These include:
  • including grab bars with high visibility grips
  • adding yellow/black reflective tape on the base of seats for people who are blind or partially sighted
  • increasing the seat size
  • increasing the base plate for better stability

Additional Resources:

• Engage Hamilton: (Re)envision the HSR
• Complete the survey