AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Silver City, NM
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A dead-end section of Yankie Street was transformed into an engaging, interactive, pedestrian connection between their main downtown street, Bullard, and the Big Ditch Park. The project turned it into an interactive space with historic flood panels, murals and checkerboard designs, plus signage inviting free games like checkers and washers. Local artists infused cultural heritage into the artwork, creating a vibrant link between downtown and Big Ditch Park. "Our families have lived in Grant County since 1900. Our memories of them live on through our creations. We are beyond proud to have been a part of this project." one artist said, underscoring the personal stories woven into the transformation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Belchertown, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A revitalized walkway near the Senior Center lacked seating, discouraging older adults and those with cognitive impairments from taking longer walks. To address this, six sturdy benches were installed along Carriage Drive, secured on concrete slabs and surrounded by grass. Outreach included a ribbon-cutting event that drew residents age 50-plus. The benches now offer safe resting spots, encouraging more time outdoors and improving well-being. Plans for additional benches are underway. One participant said she was proud to live in a town that invests in projects showing care for older adults.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Portland, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Portland's central business district has a number of neglected alleyways and streetcorners. To make walking though downtown easier -- and to attract pedestrians to local businesses -- Portland Downtown activated these spaces. They enlisted residents of an assisted living facility created murals on old doors. They also brightened up two alleys with overhead lighting. Organizers say the project improved safety, created art and engaged local businesses, all while making once-derelict areas more welcoming.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Cut Bank, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Cut Bank's dog park lacked shade, seating and accessible paths, leaving older adults with few options for safe outdoor recreation. The city added an ADA-compliant paved walking path, benches and shaded structures, creating a level route for older adults and people with mobility challenges. Signage and outreach raised awareness, turning the park into a gathering place for residents and their pets. Residents from nearby housing now use the space regularly, and one person shared during Walktoberfest that they appreciated "a level walking path... not linear so could walk for as long or short a time as they wanted."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cut Bank, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will create a 1.4-mile paved, ADA-compliant path connecting the City of Cut Bank to the School Districts Sports Complex and Glacier Historical Museum. It aims to provide a safe walking route for pedestrians.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP Montana State Office
30 West 14th Street
Suite 301
Helena, MT 59601
United States