Bring Back Our Benches, Says Hoboken Resident After City Removes Several

HOBOKEN, NJ — After the city removed several benches from Hoboken's main street, a resident with a disability — and others — have planned a protest Tuesday.

Kurt Gardiner — a local artist who suffered a stroke in 2019 — says that seniors, as well as those with a disability, appreciate having benches on Washington Street.

"There are senior citizens and disabled people and just [other] people who need a place to rest," Gardiner told Patch on Monday. "So if you are going to eliminate all the benches on Washington Street, we might as well be suburbia."

He said that if the issue has to do with working ebike deliverers or the homeless population, those matters should be addressed another way.

Marci Rubin, a city public safety spokesperson, said Monday, "The city removed some of the benches on Washington Street as a result of feedback from Washington Street residents, business owners, and frequent pedestrians. Benches can still be found at nearly every intersection on Washington Street, as they are adjacent to bus stops."

Those explanations don't "sit" well with Gardiner.

"We are going to have a beach chair party/protest at the former site of the bench at 7th and Washington outside the Hoboken Animal Hospital," he announced in a message.

The protest will take place this Tuesday from 12 to 3 p.m. (If you need an address, use 640 Washington St.)

"We have to show the city we care about our seniors and people that are less able," he added. "Bring your beach chair and if you can a spare. Do patronize Davis Stationary and Hoboken Bagels to show support for your small businesses."

Anyone is invited to attend.

When asked for more information, the city later elaborated, saying they eventually intend to return the bench near Seventh Street.

"After hearing from businesses, residents, and certain council members, the city either relocated or removed a total of seven benches along Washington Street to ensure that all city benches are strategically placed at all intersections near bus stops along the commercial corridor," said a city spokesperson Monday evening. "Some of these benches are in need of repair or replacement, including those which will be located at Third and Washington streets and First and Washington streets. These are expected to be installed by the Division of Public Works by the end of the week."

She added, "In alignment with the Hoboken Business Alliance's Streetscape Plan, the city of Hoboken and the HBA will work together to identify locations and install new street furniture throughout Washington Street.

"Mayor Bhalla has also heard from residents of the Sixth Ward regarding the bench formerly located on the south side of Seventh and Washington streets. In recognition of its significance and of the late Councilwoman Jen Giattino’s longstanding use of the bench to engage with constituents, the city will install a temporary bench at that location and will coordinate with the HBA to permanently replace it in the future."

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