Short answer: yes, in most cases the seat sling on an urban bench is replaceable when it wears out, but it is not automatically a universal part. The exact answer depends on the bench model, the frame design, and how the sling is attached. If the metal frame is still in good shape, replacing just the worn sling is usually far cheaper than replacing the entire bench.
The first thing to check is the attachment hardware. Many urban benches use a modular design where the sling is bolted, clipped, or tensioned into place between the side frames or along the rails. If you can see removable fasteners such as bolts, security screws, or bracket plates, that is a strong sign the sling was designed to be serviced. If the sling is welded or riveted directly into the frame with no visible hardware, a straight replacement may not be available, and you may need a retrofit kit or a custom-fabricated seat panel.
The most reliable path is to contact the bench manufacturer or the supplier that provided it. Commercial outdoor furniture brands often sell OEM replacement slings for their current and older models, and some offer upgraded materials or different colors. When you contact them, have the model number, bench length, and a few photos of the underside and attachment points ready. If you cannot identify the manufacturer, measure the sling width, length, thickness, and hole spacing carefully. A local metal fabricator or a specialist in outdoor furniture parts can often make a matching replacement from those dimensions.
Material choice matters. If the original sling is expanded metal mesh, powder-coated steel, stainless steel, or a UV-resistant fabric, try to match it or upgrade to something more weather-resistant. Look for a replacement that drains well, resists UV damage, and is rated for public or commercial use if the bench is in a streetscape, park, or campus. If theft or vandalism is a concern, choose tamper-resistant fasteners for the new sling.
So yes—replacement is usually possible on a modular urban bench. With a solid frame and the right replacement sling, you can often get another 10 to 15 years of service from the bench. If the frame is cracked, heavily rusted, or structurally compromised, that is the point where a full bench replacement may make more sense.