AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
The Bridge (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Walkability
└ Walkability
Older pedestrians face unsafe walking conditions on streets without sidewalks, forcing residents age 50-plus to navigate uneven surfaces and traffic. To address this, the project conducted four walk audits with community members, city staff and business owners to identify hazards and prioritize improvements. The effort sparked partnerships and future funding plans. One participant shared her hope to add benches and plaques honoring the neighborhood's history, showing how walkability upgrades can enhance safety and preserve heritage.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Lincoln, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Residents along Lincoln's 11th Street faced unsafe crossings and heavy traffic, leaving older adults and families vulnerable. Civic Nebraska organized six walk audits covering eight intersections, surveyed residents and hosted an open house with city staff to spotlight hazards. Volunteers, including older adults, gathered feedback that shaped the 11th Street Corridor Improvement plan. The effort forged a partnership with Lincoln Transportation & Utilities, ensuring future projects reflect lived experience and giving residents a stronger voice in street safety.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Chicago, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Busy intersections near a new commuter rail station posed safety risks for pedestrians, including older adults. The project conducted walk audits at four hazardous crossings and gathered input from nearby residents. Weekly walks and a workshop mapped risks and built partnerships for future improvements. Findings informed city proposals for upgrades such as sensors to monitor near misses, while plans for art and landscaping aim to create a safer, more inviting environment for people traveling on foot or bike.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Highland, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Walkability
Description: Highlanders Boxing Club organized walk audits to address street safety concerns and promote walkability for older residents. The events brought older adults and youth together to identify hazards and learn about safer routes, creating a sense of community while raising awareness. The effort sparked plans for ongoing walks, with one participant saying the experience "was a true blessing" because it gave her a chance to connect after long periods of isolation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Cole, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public place improvements to withstand extreme weather events
Description: After an F3 tornado devastated Cole, residents lost safe gathering spaces and older adults had no secure place during severe weather. The project rebuilt the park stage with new flooring, railings and structural leveling, restoring a venue for music and community events. This upgrade revives traditions that unite generations and creates a focal point for recovery. Residents expressed excitement about plans for more improvements, including a pavilion and sports facilities, signaling a renewed sense of belonging and hope for a stronger, connected community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Norman, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The county will assess homes and install aluminum entry ramps for older residents. These improvements will reduce the risk of falls, strengthen independence and help older adults remain safely in their homes.
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 has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Oklahoma State Office
126 N Bryant Avenue
Edmond (Oklahoma City), OK 73034
United States