Bench armrests in Woonsocket spark controversy

WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — Benches at a park in Woonsocket are sparking controversy.

The city’s Public Works Department put up armrests this week in the middle of all benches at the World War II Veterans Memorial Park.

This is a photo of a bench with an armrest at Social Park in Woonsocket. (WLNE)

Some argue the armrests prevent the homeless from using the benches.

A Woonsocket resident told ABC 6 News that he plays cornhole at the park twice a week and this is the first time he’s seen the armrests, saying the homeless do frequent the park but they’ve never been an issue.

This is a photo of a bench with an armrest at Social Park in Woonsocket. (WLNE)

“I’ve been here for years and I can’t say I’ve ever had any problems with the homeless, no one has gotten violent,” said Jack. “We’ve had a couple people get upset with different things, but we’ve never had a problem.”

The benches with the armrests come just two days after a homeless encampment on Charles Street in Providence was cleared.

This is a photo of benches with armrests at Social Park in Woonsocket. (WLNE)

ABC 6 reached out to Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt’s office, as well as the Public Works Department, for comment but have yet hear back.