Homeowners in HOAs can propose their Boards consider adding a bench or chairs in common areas. "Good things that can happen: Meet neighbors while you're building it" (volunteers could build or watch construction). "Kids sit there to wait for the bus in the morning. Older people stop to rest during evening strolls.... A bench or chairs can transform a lonely space into a lively place.” Says Jay Walljasper in
The Great Neighborhood Book.
http://www.onthecommons.org/magazine/create-commons-your-own-front-yard
