VRT introduces new, cost-effective passenger seating

At VRT, we’re constantly seeking innovative and cost-effective ways to improve the rider experience, and our latest initiative is no exception. In an effort to add more seating to more bus stops across the Treasure Valley, VRT is introducing Simme-Seats, a low-profile and cost-effective seating option.  

“Traditional bus stop benches often require significant design, permitting, and construction, which limits where we can place them,” said VRT’s CEO, Elaine Clegg. “Simme-Seats provide a fast, cost-effective way to improve the rider experience at smaller stops while maintaining our focus on larger amenities at our busiest locations.” 

What Are Simme Seats? 

Provided by Simme LLC in Eugene, OR, Simme-Seats are lower-cost, free-standing seats that can accommodate 1-2 people. Their simple design allows them to be mounted on existing bus stop poles, which is more cost-effective, takes up less space, and is more efficient to install than traditional bus stop benches – meaning we can put more of them in more places.  

Simme-Seats, which are durable and rated to hold up to 500 pounds per seat, provide much-needed seating at bus stops not served by a shelter. Due to their compact design and streamlined profile, Simme-Seats can fit on narrow sidewalks and still maintain ADA wheelchair clearance. 

Where will they be?  

To kick off this project, VRT has purchased 12 Simme Seats for a pilot program, with the first installed at bus stop AB430 at Idaho & 9th in downtown Boise, serving routes 7 Fairview, 8 Chinden, and 40 Caldwell/Boise Express.  

Staff worked with VRT’s Regional Advisory Council (RAC) to identify ideal locations for this pilot project.  

What’s next?  

VRT will continue to work with the RAC to identify stops with consistent, moderate boardings that would benefit most from these new seating options. We’ll install the remaining 11 Simme-Seats at stops throughout the Treasure Valley and gather feedback from riders and community members to evaluate the impact of this new seating.  

This project is the next phase of VRT’s Better Bus Initiative, which most recently included updated signs and better passenger information at all bus stops in the system.