Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Organizers with Pigtown Main Street hoped to revitalize the intersection of Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevards. The intersection acts as a gateway to Pigtown, one of Baltimore's most diverse neighborhoods. However, Washington Boulevard is a six-lane divided highway and public spaces along the route have been neglected. To help residents envision street improvements, Pigtown Main Street organized a pop-up event, creating a park at the intersection. Ideas presented included adding curb extensions to help pedestrians cross the street safety, installing bike lanes, reducing the number of travel lanes, displaying public art, creating outdoor seating and eating areas and improving landscaping. Visitors to the pop-up were invited to share their feedback. Organizers set up Dot Boards, which allowed people to place a dot by the photos of activities they'd like to see more of. The top five choices: live performances, outdoor food, parties, art events and outdoor classes.

Birmingham, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: In recent years, Birmingham's historic 4th Avenue Business District recently earned a designation as a National Monument for Civil Rights. Organizers hoped to help residents and visitors safely explore the neighborhood on foot. First, organizers conducted a walk audit to evaluate the area's pedestrian infrastructure and identify ways to improve walkability. They then worked with an artist to design pavement murals for each corner of a busy intersection, which volunteers helped paint on the pavement. The colorful sidewalk bulbouts make the crosswalk more visible to drivers, increasing pedestrian safety. Each mural pays tribute to the area's culture and history. Organizers say the placemaking effort also supports wider downtown revitalization plans. The area -- which is home to many Black-owned businesses -- hosts outdoor activities in the summer, including music and arts programming and community service days.

Camden, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Residents faced dangerous conditions near the new waterfront park, where missing crosswalks and poor bike lane design made access unsafe for pedestrians and cyclists, including older adults. Camden Community Partnership restriped State Street and Harrison Avenue, installed over 300 bike delineators, curb ramps and flashing bike signs, and added a bus stop bench. These changes slowed traffic and improved visibility while prompting plans for permanent upgrades. As one parent noted, "It will definitely help my kids get to the new 60-acre park to ride the trails."

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.