AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Alamogordo MainStreet (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
When a major streetscape project threatened to cut off downtown access, Alamogordo MainStreet turned an unsafe alley into a welcoming corridor. Uneven surfaces and poor lighting were replaced with raised garden beds, ADA-compliant benches and pergolas with lighting. Eight murals were created by local artists and volunteers. The alley now hosts classes, food trucks and photo opportunities, and will provide safe access during construction. "Transforming our once overlooked alley into a vibrant, art-filled space is a game-changer... creating a sense of place and fostering community pride," said a city commissioner.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Richford, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Richford lacked outdoor spaces for older adults to socialize and stay active, leaving many isolated despite frequent visits to the health center. The project created an outdoor Welcome Center with seating, raised garden beds, an informational kiosk and a lending pantry. Weather-resistant tables and umbrellas encourage outdoor meals and community interaction. Residents now enjoy a scenic, accessible space for gatherings and health-focused events. One staff member shared how his mother, a housing tenant, now joins him for lunch outside-a simple change fostering connection and well-being.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
West Fargo, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: As part of efforts to attract visitors to its downtown, the City of West Fargo hoped to turn its POW/MIA Plaza on Sheyenne Street into a gathering space. To do this, the City purchased game tables for a previously underused portion of the plaza. "This project helped demonstratethe importance of creating opportunities for fun and safe activities in the city's new and improved downtown area," City Planner Malachi Petersen said. "It is our hope that this project will lead to future projects which encourage walkability and active lifestyles in our community." Today the plaza hosts community events, including a farmers market. Project organizers hope to replicate the games in other parts of West Fargo in the future.
Wayne, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Derby's Alley, located in downtown Wayne, was underutilized, but organizers with Wayne Ripple Effect saw its potential as a community gathering space. To showcase the alley, the organization held eight fitness classes, including Tai Chi and cardio drumming instruction. They also installed bistro tables, benches and overhead lighting in the alley. Since then, Wayne Main Street has improved landscaping in the alley and added signage.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Las Cruces, NM
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: To strengthen community ties and reduce isolation among older adults, Cruces Creatives led a paint-by-numbers mural project in downtown Las Cruces. More than 600 residents, including nearly 200 people age 50-plus, helped transform a highly visible wall into an 1,800-square-foot work of art. The mural gives volunteers lasting pride and has prompted continued engagement with local programs. Integrated research will produce the first peer-reviewed study on participatory public art, shaping similar efforts elsewhere. One participant summed up the experience: "Being a team and working together to improve our city feels fulfilling."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Las Cruces, NM
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To make its downtown more bike-friendly, the Downtown Las Cruces installed 40 bike tacks. Based on feedback from the local cycling community, project organizers painted the racks racer green. Engagement with local business owners and volunteers determined the best locations to place the racks. In the future, Downtown Las Cruces expects placemaking efforts to continue with new shade sails. The City of Las Cruces also has plans for a new green path to facilitate biking and walking.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP New Mexico State Office
535 Cerrillos Road
Suite A
Santa Fe, NM 87501
United States