We've got the fabulous artist benches already in place, but many of those don't have a back so they get uncomfortable for more than a brief stop.  And what if you're looking for a spot in the sun, or the shade, or to gather with a group of friends?  Putting in additional permanent seating isn't ideal because it limits other uses for the plaza like markets and events. 

For the Chair Project led by Samantha Kattan, Union Square Main Streets is proposing the purchase of 20 light-weight, stackable chairs that would be left outside on the plaza for everyone to use.  The goal is to promote the plaza as a destination for eating, conversation and enjoying the outdoors, animating our public space.  These chairs will be in a single design and color - the polished aluminium and teak chair in this photo -- to give a cohesive look to the area.  

Samantha says, "The chairs give a more organic and casual feel than fixed benches. Research about public space use finds that most people will tend to cluster. It is likely that the chairs will end up in fairly consistent positions, rather than scattered randomly. Researchers have noted that many people only move their chairs by a few inches; it's more the perceived freedom of movable seating that is appealing."
 
While concerns about theft and damage are reasonable, Samantha explains, "Many public spaces and parks have used this solution and have found losses to be minimal.
Harvard recently added about 200 chairs to its main Yard and found that as long as the chairs were secured at night, theft was not an issue. To ensure minimal losses, the staff from Precinct and other area businesses say they'll work with us to secure the chairs overnight and disperse them in the mornings." 
 
This is an experiment.  Other places have found that the chairs positively contributed to the neighborhood and passersby respected the sharing ethos by not stealing or damaging them.  To make the Chair Project work we're trying to find sponsors at the $75-$100 level.  Interested?   Contact Mimi Graney at mimi@unionsquaremain.org for details.

 

 

Like bears emerging from slumber, Union Square's residents and visitors are coming awake again.  To help the plaza and sidewalks welcome life a few projects are currently underway
The sidewalk planters are looking rather sad after the long, wet winter.  Last summer, these planters had been lovingly adopted by various residents. These folks planted them, weeded them, watered them and all around nurtured this mini-gardens all summer long for us all to enjoy.  We're seeking planter sponsors for this season.  Interested?  Email Jason@unionsquaremain.org.  

 

 

On Saturday May 8 is the annual City-wide Clean Up Day. Teams will be gathering across the city at 10 am.  Union Square folks will gather in front of the SCAT building at 90 Union Square before heading off to their assignments.  Immediately following from noon to 2 pm is a community barbeque on Nunziato Field on Summer Street with the SomerGreen festival happening alongside at the Community Growing Center.  The SomerGreen event brings together dozens of "green" businesses, community groups, educational institutions and city departments to share how they and you can create a more sustainable Somerville.