Over the past year, the city decided to remove some park benches and shelters that had been taken over by transients and drug and alcohol abusers. These activities were harmful to businesses whose establishments were near the benches and to legitimate bus riders who could not use the benches and shelters for their intended purposes. In addition, the benches became a sanitary issue as regularly scheduled cleanings could not take place. The city is replacing many benches throughout the city with new benches and shelters that are designed to discourage extended stays.