Arthurdale, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: On Arthurdale's historic 23-acre campus, uneven sidewalks and a lack of outdoor amenities made visits difficult for older adults and others seeking safe, accessible spaces. The project replaced a hazardous 75-foot sidewalk and added benches, trash bins, a dog waste station and a bike rack. New landscaping to beautify the grounds was also created. These improvements have made the site safer and more inviting, encouraging residents to use it for recreation and events. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and plans are underway for expanded sidewalks and new programs for older adults.

St. Mary, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will create an accessible outdoor activity, gathering, and gardening space at the senior center. It will encourage tribal elders to connect with nature and provide volunteer opportunities for community members.

Alamogordo, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: When a major streetscape project threatened to cut off downtown access, Alamogordo MainStreet turned an unsafe alley into a welcoming corridor. Uneven surfaces and poor lighting were replaced with raised garden beds, ADA-compliant benches and pergolas with lighting. Eight murals were created by local artists and volunteers. The alley now hosts classes, food trucks and photo opportunities, and will provide safe access during construction. "Transforming our once overlooked alley into a vibrant, art-filled space is a game-changer... creating a sense of place and fostering community pride," said a city commissioner.