Denver, CO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Denver's Federal Boulevard is one of the city's deadliest routes, with a traffic fatality rate 20 times higher than the average for urban streets in Colorado. To demonstrate simple improvements to make walking and biking safer, WalkDenver held a daylong tactical urbanism event near Regis University. Using pastel-painted tires, traffic cones, flowerpots and hay bales, project organizers set up temporary bike lanes, curb extensions and traffic islands along Federal Boulevard. To determine the efficacy of the street calming interventions, they collected data on vehicle speeds and surveyed pedestrians during the pop-up. Ahead of the event, project organizers hosted a walk with local leaders, allowing them to experience the challenge of walking along Federal Boulevard. The nearby neighborhoods are home to college students who regularly walk and bike, as well as a high concentration of older adults and residents with disabilities.

Memphis, TN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: This project improved the South Memphis neighborhood of Soulsville neighborhood by creating an artistic crosswalk at a busy intersection. The installation served to beautify the street, as well as improve pedestrian and cycling safety by making the crosswalk more visible to drivers. Project organizers say they hope the street art also fosters a sense of pride among the neighborhood's residents.

Carlsbad, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: This project set out to beautify Carlsbad's downtown and make walking safter. To do this, organizers repainted crosswalks with thermoplastic materials, which are designed to withstand the sun's rays. Over time, the crossing lines painted in many intersections had faded under the sun. The new crosswalks are more visible, which improves safety by helping drivers spot pedestrians crossing the street. Project organizers hope the improved streetscape draws more people downtown, supporting the local economy.