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Bicycle Coalition of Maine (2020) Print
2020 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
To increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine held a series of short-term traffic calming demonstrations in Bangor, North Yarmouth and Bangor. The pop-up installations increased the visibility of crosswalks and shortened crossing distances with simple, cost-effective tools. The Coalition deployed flexible lane delineators and pedestrian-crossing signs. They also painted pedestrian landings at crosswalks and added shared-lane markings -- called sharrows -- to street pavement. To gage the effectiveness of these activities, the organization collected survey responses and traffic data, which showed that traffic speeds decreased and pedestrians appreciated it. Project organizers say the demonstrations helped prove to municipal leaders that streets are for people -- not just people in cars -- and improving safety is possible without complex, expensive road construction.
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Bozeman, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The City of Bozeman partnered with the Western Transportation Institute to create a pop-up trailer, which they lend to community groups who want to test out street concepts and advocate for permanent changes. The toolkit contains materials for temporary demonstrations, such as straw wattles, planter boxes, pavement paint and tires. These are useful for creating curb extensions and pedestrian islands -- features that calm traffic by narrowing lanes and increasing the visibility of cyclists and pedestrians. The City deployed the kit at the intersection of Tamarack and North Tracy, where residents often complain about speeding. Located near a park, senior center and the county fairgrounds, the intersection is popular with pedestrians and cyclists. When the City polled passersby about the interventions, two-thirds of the feedback they heard was positive. The City also set up radar speed detection equipment, which showed slower vehicle speeds during pop-up project.
Chicago, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Chicago's Clark Street commercial district is a busy area for commuters and shoppers. To increase safety, decrease crime and beautify the neighborhood, the Rogers Park Business Alliance created its Cross the Street: Art on Clark project. Organizers painted murals on the pavement at intersections near the local commuter train station, as well as on side streets leading to the Clark Street shopping district. The permanent art installations are meant to encourage drivers to slow down as they approach. Also meant to be a placemaking intervention, the pavement art also encourages pedestrians to engage with local businesses. Since installation, project organizers say Art on Clark has improved economic vitality and public safety in the neighborhood.
Jasonville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Jasonville lacked safe sidewalks for older adults to walk and socialize, with no local gyms and uneven routes limiting activity. The Heritage Walkway project added ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, signage and lighting around the downtown Heritage Block. Volunteers painted a colorful crosswalk leading to the community garden. The walkway now connects key destinations and offers a safe space for exercise and gathering. Residents praised the improvements during a community event, and plans include hosting farmers markets and seasonal activities to keep the area vibrant.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Portland, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions
Description: AIA Maine saw that many residents living in older homes needed clearer ways to plan for safe aging in place. Limited affordable options and uncertainty about how to adapt homes made it hard for people to understand their choices. The group hosted webinars on adaptable housing, aging in place and multigenerational design, then used its 207 HOME competition to surface practical ideas for one floor living and flexible layouts. Seventeen submissions highlighted ways older adults could remain safely housed while staying connected to their communities. A traveling exhibit will bring these examples to public venues and expand awareness. The competition also strengthened conversations with state partners about the housing needs of older adults. One collaborative team designed a series of small ADU style units to support shared living, and their enthusiasm reflected the value of generating ideas that can shape future policy and design.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Portland, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: Social isolation and cost barriers limited opportunities for connection in Portland's downtown. Friends of Congress Square Park introduced weekly chess meetups, a month-long badminton series and an open disc golf session, creating inclusive spaces for play and conversation. These activities drew older adults and neighbors together, breaking down social barriers and fostering community ties. Organizers plan to continue the programs, noting that participants enjoyed "meeting others through play."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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