Yes, absolutely. In recent years, urban planners and furniture designers have begun addressing a long-overlooked need: benches that are truly accessible for wheelchair users. Traditional park benches, with their fixed armrests and narrow gaps, often make it impossible for someone using a wheelchair to transfer onto them without a struggle—or at all. But a new wave of inclusive designs is changing that.
One of the most practical solutions is the side-transfer bench. These benches are designed with either no armrests on one or both ends, or with removable armrests, allowing a wheelchair user to pull up alongside the bench and slide directly onto the seat. The seat height is another critical factor: it should match the height of a standard wheelchair seat (around 17-19 inches from the ground) to allow for a safe and smooth transfer.
You’ll find these benches increasingly in modern urban parks, transit stops, and public plazas. For example, some cities are installing "L-shaped" or "curved" benches that provide a flat, open edge specifically for side access. Others use modular seating systems that let you configure a space with a section that has no armrests. Materials like smooth, durable wood or recycled plastic also make sliding easier than rough concrete or metal.
Beyond just the physical design, these benches also promote social inclusion. When a bench is accessible, it’s not just a place to sit—it’s an invitation. It says the space is for everyone, whether you’re walking, using a cane, or rolling in a wheelchair.
So, if you’re looking for urban benches that allow side transfer, they do exist. Look for designs labeled as "ADA compliant" in the U.S., or terms like "accessible bench" or "side-transfer seat" in other regions. And if you’re involved in city planning or advocacy, pushing for these benches is one of the most impactful ways to make public spaces more welcoming.