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Huntington Park studies modern bus shelter designs for Florence Avenue; council warns against ‘hostile architecture’
Summary
Council heard a Public Works presentation on shelter options for Metro’s Florence rapid‑connectivity project, debated seating/bar designs, ADA features, lighting and advertising revenue, and directed staff to return with a recommended Florence‑Avenue standard.
Huntington Park’s City Council spent a study session reviewing bus‑shelter design options ahead of Metro’s Florence Avenue project and asked staff to return with a recommended standard that balances seating capacity, accessibility and public safety.
Public Works (Speaker 5) walked through the city’s existing Spanish‑style shelters and compared them to LA County and LA City models that include advertising, Wi‑Fi, charging stations and digital passenger information. Staff emphasized that Metro needs the city’s design preference for the Florence corridor to proceed and that time is sensitive.
Councilmembers raised repeated concerns about bench designs that intentionally prevent people from lying down, sometimes called “hostile architecture.” One member said such designs create unwelcoming spaces and conflict with efforts to address homelessness’ root causes; another argued handles are sometimes necessary to prevent long‑term encampments and protect vulnerable older riders. Members also prioritized better nighttime lighting, increased seating capacity (multiple members suggested designs that accommodate more than three seats), ADA features such as audible announcements for blind riders, and the option to generate revenue from advertising to offset costs.
Staff said manufacturers and consultants can offer hybrid designs and that the city could adapt LA City or LA County standards while retaining Huntington Park‑specific features. The council did not select a final product that night but directed staff to consult manufacturers and return with a recommended Florence Avenue standard at the next meeting so Metro can be informed.
The item included technical constraints (sightlines, ADA, curb/sidewalk geometry) and funding/implementation considerations; council members also suggested creative features such as water refill stations where infrastructure permits. No procurement decision or contract award was made during the study session.
