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Cathedral Square (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Residents of Kelley's Field, an affordable housing community for older adults, faced safety risks crossing busy Route 116 to reach essential services. Cathedral Square installed a rectangular rapid flashing beacon at the crosswalk, making pedestrians more visible to drivers. The improvement enhances access to public transportation, groceries and community resources, helping residents stay connected and reducing isolation. Residents expressed excitement about using the new signal, which offers a safer way to navigate their town.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Torrington, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Older adults living near Prospect Street faced unsafe crossings to reach downtown shops and bus stops due to worn markings, poor asphalt and lack of ADA ramps. The project installed ADA-compliant ramps with tactile pads, solar-powered flashing beacons and new signage, replacing deteriorated surfaces for safer passage. These upgrades prompted the city to repave surrounding streets and plan similar improvements near other housing complexes. Residents welcomed the changes, saying they make trips downtown easier and safer.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Washington, DC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: To mark the arrival of a new grocery store to the Bellevue neighborhood, Safe Routes to Healthy Food for Older Adults set out to improve traffic safety, increasing locals' ability to access food. At the annual Taste of Harvest Festival, residents of the Bellevue neighborhood helped paint a vibrant, vegetable-themed crosswalk. The event also invited attendees to paint reusable shopping bags, which gave project organizers an opportunity to chat with residents about their ideas for improving neighborhood safety. Following the success of that even, organizers created a second artistic crosswalk at a mobile farmer's market near a local library branch. While painting took place, project organizers conducted a survey to gather feedback on traffic safety. This led to conversations about residents' frustrations accessing healthy, affordable food. Organizers say they hope the project leads to permanent infrastructure improvements in the future.
Tuba City, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The Nanees'Dizi Chapter government serves nearly 10,000 members of the Navajo Nation. Recently, the Chapter redid its headquarters to offer an incubation space for local vendors, artists and businesses, including adding an outdoor market. Change Labs hoped to help residents access this space, so they installed new steps and a handrail. Ahead of the work, Change Labs met with older adults in the community to understand their needs. Organizers say the project sparked a community conversation about needed infrastructure upgrades. It also strengthened relationships between local business owners and government leaders.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Burlington, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults and riders with mobility challenges often waited on uneven surfaces at Burlington-area bus stops lacking seating and ADA-compliant pads. GMT addressed this by installing five compact benches and four slip-resistant concrete pads at high-ridership stops near local communities. The project also featured a Ride Together event where older residents learned to navigate schedules, apps and fare payment. These upgrades improved safety, comfort and visibility, and Burlington officials are considering expanding the seating model citywide. Early feedback has been positive, with riders and community members praising the benches and noting increased use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Burlington, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: Rising traffic in Burlington's Old East End made walking hazardous, especially for older adults, threatening safety and social connection. The coalition organized walk audits and produced a report that guided upgrades. Temporary fixes included repainting crosswalks and adding stop signs, while permanent improvements featured a radar speed sign and a community kiosk. These changes improved visibility and fostered neighborhood engagement. One resident said, "It's nice to see traffic abatement near the apartments... really appreciate the collective energy and focus on neighborhood quality issues."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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