Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) and AARP in St. Louis, together with Metro Transit, the City of St. Louis and community partners, today unveiled the first bus bench installed in downtown St. Louis through “The Story of a Bench” Placemaking Program. Located at MetroBus Stop #8641 at 20th and Market streets near Energizer Park, the new bench marks the program’s 17th installation across the region.
The bright-red, all-weather bench features the slogan “Enjoy the Ride,” a custom sponsor plaque and a QR code that invites riders to share how the addition has affected their transit trip. Feedback collected through the survey and by program ambassadors helps partners track the program’s impact and identify opportunities for future improvements.
Access the survey here: Tell Us About Your Bench Survey
“Transit is a critical part of our region’s transportation system, and this program shows how a relatively small investment can make a meaningful difference,” said Kimberly Cella, CEO of Citizens for Modern Transit. “A basic amenity like a bench can ease the wait for riders, build support for transit and bring new attention to stops that have too often been overlooked. Today’s unveiling brings that impact to downtown St. Louis for the first time.”
CMT and AARP in St. Louis launched the program in 2025 to bring seating to more bus stops throughout the bi-state area. Rider feedback indicates the benches are helping reduce physical and mental strain after long days at work or school, when carrying groceries or while navigating mobility challenges and health conditions.
The installations are also prompting additional upgrades. CMT has invested $65,000 across the 17 bench locations, which have generated more than $85,000 in further transit stop improvements, including shelters, trash receptacles, accessible connections and sidewalks.
“These installations demonstrate what is possible when public agencies, businesses, residents and transit riders work together,” said Ellie Glenn Harmon, chair of the CMT Board of Directors. “The benches provide an immediate benefit while encouraging continued investment in the neighborhoods and transit stops they serve.”
CMT and AARP in St. Louis continue to seek municipalities, businesses, organizations, community groups and individuals interested in supporting future bench installations. To learn more about “The Story of a Bench” Placemaking Program, visit https://cmt-stl.org/the-story-of-a-bench-placemaking-program/.
