Des Moines, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The project will add benches, markings, bike racks and other amenities to Riverside Bridge Park. These improvements will make the park safer and more comfortable for resting, walking, biking and enjoying the river setting.

Seven Hills, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The city will add accessible benches, lighting, landscaping, picnic tables and walking paths to its Memorial Park. These upgrades will support community events while making the park safer and more comfortable for older residents.

Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Organizers with the Augusta Recreation and Parks Department noticed people were driving their vehicles into Henry H. Brigham Park, making park users feel unsafe. This project set out to prevent this, keeping a walking track, basketball court and playground area free from cars and trucks. The Department installed bollards, as well as benches -- which served the dual purpose of giving park patrons a place to rest. Additionally, organizers planted shade trees to make the park more appealing in the summer heat. To draw visitors, the Department also worked to increase recreational programming in the park, including Tai Chi classes.