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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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Harrisonville, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: City Park's disconnected sidewalks forced pedestrians, including older adults, onto roads, raising safety concerns and limiting access to amenities. The city installed 862 feet of concrete sidewalk, added benches, planted trees and placed signage. This created a continuous path that links park features and an ADA-accessible playground. The improvements make walking safer and encourage physical activity and social interaction. "The new park sidewalk allows me to walk early in the morning without fear of being in the street... I love it!" said one resident, reflecting the project's lasting impact on accessibility and community engagement.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Malvern, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: To improve pedestrian visibility and safety, the Malvern-Hot Spring County Library created a colorful crosswalk. Project organizers report the crosswalk has visibly slowed down approaching traffic. A local group -- the Ouachita River Art Guild -- designed and painted the crosswalk with a floral design. Library also worked with local master gardeners to create a pollinator garden and added a story trail. The trail includes sign posts displaying pages from a children's storybook, which can be rotated out as needed to provide visitors with new reading material.
Macon, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Residents in two adjacent neighborhoods faced unsafe walking conditions and a lack of pedestrian infrastructure, especially in Pleasant Hill, where many older adults live. To address this, Bike Walk Macon worked with residents and artists to install four artistic crosswalks at a key intersection during Open Streets Macon. More than 50 volunteers helped, and over 1,000 people attended the event. The murals improved crosswalk visibility and sparked plans for future traffic-calming projects. As one participant noted, the art increases visibility of crosswalks and causes motorists to be more cautious and alert. This has helped bridge the gap between the two through art and a common goal to make its residents safer.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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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