Milwaukee, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Older adults living near Humboldt Park faced walking conditions that made reaching the park and nearby destinations uncomfortable and, at times, unsafe. Unmarked crosswalks, uneven sidewalks, obstructed paths and short crossing times created challenges, especially for people using mobility aids. Humboldt Park Friends organized six walk audits that brought residents together to examine conditions firsthand and document issues block by block. One participant said they would never walk those streets the same way again after seeing how hazards stacked up within a single block. The findings were shared with residents and local officials, giving older adults a clearer voice in conversations about pedestrian safety and future improvements.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: The Works Inc. set out to improve walking conditions in South Memphis, where unclear construction messaging and unsafe crossings made it difficult for residents, including older adults, to navigate routes to Renaissance Pocket Park. The group led a walk audit and produced a findings report, partnering with Innovate Memphis to shape future audits and strengthen communication with city engineers. During the audit, participants learned how new bump outs, upgraded lights and multisensory pedestrian signals would support safer walking, easing concerns about construction. The project strengthened ties with Innovate Memphis and opened direct communication with City of Memphis Engineering, prompting plans for additional audits in South and North Memphis. A participant story about a confusing intersection highlighted how better information helped residents understand the long-term safety benefits of the upgrades.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

San Francisco, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: San Francisco's Little Chinatown corridor lacked safe, accessible infrastructure for pedestrians, leaving older adults and people with disabilities at risk. The project conducted three walk audits with volunteers and local officials, documenting hazards and gathering input from business owners and parents. Findings highlighted needs for stop signs, improved bus stops and accessibility upgrades. A local business owner stated that these infrastructure improvements will increase safety and access. The audits sparked plans for placemaking improvements, including safety bollards and street art.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.