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Bike Connector Inc. (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
Older adults in Lowell often struggle with transportation costs, limiting access to essentials and social activities. To address this, Bike Connector hosted two bike rodeos at the local Senior Center. They gave 53 participants free bikes, helmets, locks, lights, plus safety instruction and practice. Ten new riders learned to cycle, and repair clinics taught maintenance skills to 50 attendees. According to the Center's program director, bike ridership has grown among low-income participants, helping them reach services and stay active. The group plans annual rodeos and multilingual safety guides to sustain momentum.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Santa Fe, NM
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To demonstrate the safety benefits of bike-friendly infrastructure, the Santa Fe Metropolitan Planning Organization developed a reusable pop-up toolkit and deployed it in two neighborhoods. The toolkit allows the MPO to create temporary bike lanes in neighborhoods throughout Santa Fe and collect feedback from residents. Materials consist of candlestick delineators to offset cyclists from road traffic, as well as signage to alert drivers to the bike lanes. Based on data gathered during the pop-ups the MPO published a report advocating for more active transportation options for the traditionally car-centric city. Project organizers say they hope ongoing pop-ups help residents envision the value of protected cycling infrastructure, especially in neighborhoods where older adults, lower-income families and people of color live -- all populations that are disproportionately injured or killed when walking or biking.
Worcester, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Older adults in Worcester faced isolation and lacked confidence in cycling, limiting active transportation options. MassBike launched an intergenerational program with five workshops and five group rides, pairing older adults with youth to build skills and social connections. Sessions covered bike safety and barriers, while rides included themed events like a Halloween ride and a trip to the ballpark. The program strengthened advocacy for safer infrastructure and expanded partnerships for future cycling initiatives. One participant said "It was so nice to see people from all different age groups coming together."
Sunrise, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: The City of Sunrise installed bike fix-it stations and artistic bike racks at five city parks. The fix-it stations, which are free to use, include an air pump and other tools and give users the ability to suspend a bike so its wheels spin freely during repairs. Each rack's design was unique, with their shapes imitating a music note, soccer ball, basketball, baseball and an alligator. Project organizers hope the bike amenities empower Sunrise's multigenerational community to expand their transportation options.
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
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