Why Public Restrooms?
Early in the twentieth century, America’s city dwellers acknowledged the need for public toilets and started building facilities that were clean, comfortable, and conveniently located. Portland, Oregon had historic comfort stations that served everyone. Workers in the mills along the river and farming families who came into in the heart of the city on streetcars could relieve themselves and clean up before attending to business. As late as the 1950s most cities still boasted public restrooms staffed by attendants. By the end of the 20th century, however, many of the old facilities were closed. The right to relieve oneself became a consumer item, dependent on the purchase of a cup of coffee at the very least. Among Asians and Europeans there is high demand for quality facilities but Americans have lost sight of the many benefits of public restrooms. Public restrooms help revitalize downtown neighborhoods. People are comfortable strolling in downtown when there are public facilities. For
