Two years ago, Eva was a 4th grader studying at St. Justin School in Santa Clara. Driving to school, she often saw classmates and neighbors waiting at nearby VTA bus stops, sitting on plain brown benches. It occurred to her that these public seating areas were part of the community. So why not make the community part of these benches?

She spotted an opportunity.

“I wanted those seats to be a symbol of connection,” said Eva.

With some help from her parents, Eva submitted a proposal to VTA for a public art bench on behalf of her class at the nearby bus stop serving Route 57 at the intersection of Kiely and Homestead. The project was approved in February 2020.

Then the pandemic halted everything.

In spring 2021, as a 5th grader, she and her family were able to pick the project back up again as students began returning to in-person classes. VTA provided the bench and delivery services, while Eva and her family took care of the artwork and materials. Each handprint on the bench was contributed by Eva’s 5th grade classmates and school staff.

“I hope our bench reminds passengers waiting at that bus stop that their community recognizes and cares about them,” explained Eva. “I want to make someone’s day better, simply by seeing that bench.”

This week, after much effort and pandemic-related delays, the now 6th grader Eva got to see her thoughtful idea come to fruition at the corner of Kiely and Homestead. She hopes the bench inspires other young people to take advantage of VTA’s program, making a positive impact in their community through public art.

Members of the public can learn more about submitting proposals for public art benches by contacting VTA Customer Service and asking to speak with the Service & Operations Planning team.