I keep looking at the picture and thinking there is something wrong besides any working clearance problems. This looks like a transformer and the ones I am familiar with require ventilation space at the back. Also, can anyone tell me what type of conduit the black stuff is?

Personally, I don't like seeing transformers in public traffic areas. It seems like Mr. Public likes to use them for shelves and tables. If it snows in this area, it may provide people with a nice warm and dry place to set stuff down as they get in and out of there cars. I have only seen transformers in similar enclosures installed inside; but, I have seen them inside with a foot of papers stacked on top.

Phil H