Thank you for your important question regarding safety and public seating. It's a common concern for city planners and communities alike. Modern urban benches are specifically designed to be welcoming for resting and socializing while gently discouraging activities like prolonged sleeping or skateboarding, which can damage the bench and make it unusable or uncomfortable for others.
The design approach focuses on inclusivity and durability. You'll often see features like individual armrests or divided seating. These provide back support and a place to set belongings for seated users, but they also make lying down impractical. The materials are another key factor. Benches are typically made from robust, weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel or treated hardwood, which are built to last but are not ideal surfaces for skateboard tricks.
Furthermore, the geometry is carefully considered. Many benches have sloped seats or rounded edges. A slight slope is comfortable for sitting but becomes uncomfortable for lying down after a short while. Rounded edges and smooth surfaces, while comfortable to the touch, lack the sharp angles and ledges that skateboarders seek for grinds and slides. This is a passive, non-confrontational deterrent that prioritizes safety for both the user and the bench itself.
The ultimate goal is not to be punitive, but to ensure that these public assets are available, comfortable, and in good repair for the broadest number of people to enjoy—whether you're taking a quick break, waiting for a bus, or having a chat with a friend. It's about creating a shared public space that is functional, safe, and respectful of all community members' needs.