Thank you for your important question regarding safety and park bench design. It's a concern that many communities thoughtfully consider.
Modern public seating design often involves a complex balance between multiple priorities: ensuring safety for all users, maintaining accessibility, encouraging intended use, and providing durable community assets. Some benches you see may incorporate design elements intended to discourage lying down or prolonged sleeping. These features can include individual armrests dividing the seating space, slightly slanted seats, or curved designs. The primary goals behind such designs are typically to ensure the benches remain available for their intended purpose—sitting and resting—for the broadest number of visitors, to comply with local ordinances, and to reduce maintenance challenges associated with 24/7 occupation.
However, it's crucial to understand that not all benches are designed this way. Many public spaces prioritize inclusive, comfortable seating for relaxation and socialization. The choice of design heavily depends on the specific location, community guidelines, and the governing body responsible for the park.
Ultimately, the conversation about park furniture is part of a larger discussion on urban design, social responsibility, and creating public spaces that are welcoming, safe, and functional for everyone. We recommend checking with your local parks and recreation department for their specific design policies and the philosophy guiding your community's public spaces.