Street furnishings and other permanent objects should be constructed using resilient materials that can withstand periodic temporary inundation by both fresh and salt water, particularly when located in flood-prone areas. Designers should focus particular attention on the elevation and protection of critical electrical components.
New York City's semi-coastal environment presents unique challenges, including increased salt exposure from coastal flooding and de-icing treatments, which can accelerate material corrosion. Careful consideration should be given to material selection to ensure long-term durability. Stainless steel is a common finish for street furnishings and provides excellent durability as long as the appropriate grade is used; in most NYC streetscapes 316 stainless steel should be specified. Powder-coated, galvanized, and painted finishes are also common but must be balanced with the level of maintenance that can be provided to address wear and damage over time.
Consideration should also be given to the embodied carbon costs associated with material choices in developing furnishings. Where possible, specify locally appropriate materials and aim to reduce transportation distances. Additionally, furnishings should be designed to simplify the replacement or re-use and recycling of the various parts. For example, DOT’s benches are modular in construction which allows for the various components (i.e. seats, armrests, etc.) to be replaced individually instead of needing to replace the entire bench.
DOT continuously evaluates and improves its furnishings to meet environmental challenges. For example, DOT benches have been in use for over a decade, since the program launched in 2011, and have experienced significant wear and tear of the silver powder-coat finish. Fortunately, the underlying finish and steel remain protected and structurally sound. To address the aesthetic issues presented by the degraded finish, DOT is transitioning the benches to a matte black finish. The updated matte black powder coat provides better resistance to damage and aligns with other streetscape furniture, such as Bus Shelters and the Leaning Bar, ensuring that benches continue to meet the needs of the public while maintaining their functionality and aesthetic appeal.
By prioritizing materials and finishes suited to the urban coastal environment, streetscape furnishings can better endure the rigors of New York City’s dynamic public realm, reducing maintenance demands and extending their service life.
The majority of furnishings noted in this chapter are installed and maintained by the City or by a third-party contractor acting on the City’s behalf. This will be noted on each page. Entities may propose other furnishings, but those furnishings will require more significant review, approval by the Public Design Commission or Landmarks Preservation Commission, as applicable, and a maintenance agreement with DOT.