Nevada, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Main Street Nevada addressed the lack of comfortable, accessible places for residents to gather downtown, where limited shade and seating made it hard for older adults and people with physical limitations to spend time outdoors. An underused alleyway offered little reason to linger, even though it sat near everyday destinations. The project transformed the space into a functional patio by adding accessible seating, shade and a level surface that supports easier movement and rest. Picnic tables, umbrellas and plants helped define the area as a welcoming place to pause and connect. After opening, older adults and other residents began using the space for casual socializing, including nearby downtown residents, creating a new gathering spot that supports social connection.

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

Wetumpka, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Until Main Street Wetumpka saw the opportunity to create an outdoor community space, the dim alley connecting Company and Hill Streets in downtown Wetumpka served largely as a place to park cars. The local nonprofit worked to transform the alley into a sustainable, wheelchair accessible outdoor gathering space featuring greenery, moveable furniture and a live performance space. After a devastating tornado in early 2019, the Alleyway Project had to take a pause. But the project got back on track, with Main Street Wetumpka completing its work before other damage in the area was restored. Because of this, the alley activation became an inspiration for a wounded town. Now it's a lively spot for weekly events and a place for local workers to eat lunch outside. A project organizer said she hopes the alley's mural featuring historic Wetumpka figures helps connect young residents to their history inspires them to reach for the stars.

San Diego, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Part of Vision Zero work to reduce pedestrian fatalities, City Heights CDC worked to create a sense of space and improve safety at a dangerous intersection. The City Heights neighborhood is an enclave for refugees from Somalia and other East African countries. Residents -- particularly those 50 or older -- often gather in parking lots and on sidewalks at the busy area along University Avenue, which home to shops, markets and mosques. This placemaking project created a safe gathering space, separated from vehicle traffic. Working with residents' input, the CDC designed the space to reflect the neighborhood's culture. They installed seating, planter and tables with board game tops and painted a mural onsite. Organizers say the space helps combat social isolation and is a catalyst for investment in the neighborhood.