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City of Clarion (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
A dilapidated, abandoned building sat in the heart of Clarion's downtown business district. But city officials were concerned demolishing the building would result in a missing tooth -- a vacant lot not conducive for redevelopment. The City made the difficult decision to tear down the building, but rather than leave the site empty they turned the space into a pocket park. Equipped with accessible picnic tables and new trees, bushes, planters and attractive grasses, the new green space gives residents easy access from a parking lot to the shops and restaurants on Central Avenue.
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See More Projects Like This One
Chillicothe, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will turn a vacant and blighted property into the Sixth Ward's first-ever park, providing access to outdoor space for all generations.
Wolcott, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The Town of Wolcott lacked greenspace for community members to enjoy, so the Town transformed an unused space behind the local library into a new park. Dubbed Depot Park, the space includes a community garden with raised beds, as well as a public trailhead. To draw people in, volunteers installed outdoor games, solar-powered lighting, seating and free Wi-Fi access. Organizers wanted to make the park a year-round amenity, so they included a patio heater and bonfire. Additionally, the local fire department created a temporary ice-skating rink onsite. After completing the activation, the Town hosted its first community event in decades at Depot Park. Today, the library holds children's reading circles there. Plus, community members can harvest vegetables for free from the garden.
Vallejo, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will transform a neglected alleyway into a lively gathering space for residents of all ages. Volunteers will add temporary amenities to the space, which will support more permanent investment into Vallejo's downtown revitalization.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Nevada, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will transform two underutilized downtown areas into accessible gathering spots with handicap seating and shade.
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