Fort Wayne, IN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Trail users often passed Stillwater Hospice without knowing its prairie and pond were open to the public, and the existing path was inaccessible for people with mobility challenges. The project installed ADA-compliant curb cuts, flattened a steep curve and added a cement pad for bike racks, a trash can and doggie pot. New directional and educational signs now guide visitors and highlight prairie features. A retired cyclist noted that she rides past this area all the time but did not know about the pond or prairie until the new signs and ADA ramps went in, and that she looks forward to returning. These changes are expected to boost community walks and bike rides starting from Stillwater Hospice.

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

Anchorage, AK

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Organizers with Bike Anchorage wanted to give neighbors a glimpse at what their streets could look like with tweaks to make them safer and more pedestrian-friendly. They equipped a trailer with cones, spray chalk, signage and other traffic calming supplies, ready to deploy to locations ripe for pop-up demonstrations. In one such demonstration at a busy intersection near the public library, volunteers installed a temporary roundabout which successfully calmed vehicle traffic. They also created a temporary protected bike lane downtown. The project has already inspired more permanent improvements -- officials have earmarked funds for a future roundabout at the site near the library.

Manhattan, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Manhattan's busiest intersections needed safety improvements for pedestrians and bicyclists. To address this, the Flint Hills Metropolitan Planning Organization installed curb extensions and pedestrian islands at key locations within the community, including in front of the local elementary school. The enhancements made the crossings more visible, placing priority on people rather than vehicles. Organizers say the project showed residents and government leadership that it's possible to improve walkability and make neighborhoods safer on a modest budget.