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Citizens for Modern Transit (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Public or private transit access
└ Public or private transit access
In St. Louis, bus stops often lacked safety and accessibility, limiting mobility for older adults and residents without cars. To address this, Citizens for Modern Transit transformed a neglected stop in Soulard, where many residents are age 50-plus, into a welcoming space. The redesign added a shelter with solar lighting, benches with armrests, ADA-compliant walkways, landscaping and wayfinding. In addition, new sidewalks and ramps were added to improve access. The project boosted safety and visibility, fostered community ownership and set the stage for similar upgrades citywide. One resident said, "Adding community space where people can meet and talk comfortably will be so great."
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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Toledo, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Transportation gaps left patients waiting at an unsheltered bus stop and missing care. The clinic built an ADA-compliant bus shelter with seating and posted resources, launched a rideshare program and created a transportation toolkit to help residents plan safe, reliable trips. These changes improve access to healthcare and mobility for older adults and others facing barriers, while influencing city plans for walkability and inspiring similar efforts in other communities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Miami, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults in Miami-Dade faced barriers to using public transit and on-demand ride-hailing services, limiting mobility and social engagement. Transit Alliance launched My Transit My City, hosting workshops and tech training to teach participants how to navigate the redesigned bus system and use free ride-hailing apps. Outreach included flyers, helplines and pop-up events, and older adults enrolled in the Golden Passport program for fare-free rides. One participant said, "For those who are in their latter years, something new is always a bit frightening, but once they try it... they...like it," reflecting restored confidence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Montrose, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults in rural Colorado often miss medical care or social activities because of limited transportation and harsh weather at exposed bus stops. To address this, All Points Transit began adding benches and shelters along expanded routes, giving riders safe seating and protection from snow, rain and extreme temperatures. Volunteers assisted with planning while contractors prepared concrete pads for installation. These upgrades will make public transit more accessible and comfortable, helping older adults maintain independence and reduce isolation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: The project will create a community garden that celebrates Caribbean gardening traditions while growing fresh food locally. Participants age 50-plus will stay active, connect with neighbors and gain access to produce for everyday meals.
St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: The #70 Grand bus route in Saint Louis lacked seating and shelter, forcing riders-many older adults-to perch on tree fencing or wait in rain and heat. A new sustainable bus shelter now offers seating, solar lighting and a planter box with native plants, creating a safer and more comfortable wait. The design prompted Metro to adopt similar features and drew interest in solar upgrades for future shelters. A longtime rider said he's "so happy to finally have a bus shelter" for errands, underscoring how small changes can transform daily transit for older adults.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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