AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
City of Clyde with Clyde In Action (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Downtown Clyde lacked a safe, welcoming space for gatherings, leaving older adults without an accessible venue for celebrations and casual meetups. The project installed pathway, bistro and landscape lighting across the new Village Green. This illuminatied walkways, seating areas and a mural, while adding color-changing lights to a water feature for seasonal appeal. Exterior lights improved safety around the vendor building. Residents now enjoy a secure, vibrant space for milestone events and daily interactions. One donor said, "I'm so proud of the City of Clyde for its efforts," and noted the positive effect on family and community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Arthurdale, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: On Arthurdale's historic 23-acre campus, uneven sidewalks and a lack of outdoor amenities made visits difficult for older adults and others seeking safe, accessible spaces. The project replaced a hazardous 75-foot sidewalk and added benches, trash bins, a dog waste station and a bike rack. New landscaping to beautify the grounds was also created. These improvements have made the site safer and more inviting, encouraging residents to use it for recreation and events. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and plans are underway for expanded sidewalks and new programs for older adults.
Cromwell, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will renovate two parks to improve accessibility and enjoyment for all residents, especially veterans and those age 50 or over. Upgrades include new benches, accessible walkways, and plantings.
Skowhegan, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults lacked safe, accessible walking routes to downtown and essential services, leaving them isolated and limiting recovery options for those prescribed walking for health. The town regraded the trail to meet ADA standards, added bench seating along a new retaining wall and installed underground utilities for future lighting. These upgrades created a defined, safer passage to the pedestrian bridge and nearby trails, improving access to the hospital, library and municipal offices. Footbridge use has already increased. "I was approached by several residents that expressed their gratitude... It was inspiring to know that what we were doing was making a difference," said a project lead.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Blue Rapids, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To provide affordable recreation for older adults, the project converted a basketball court into a pickleball court and added a bench. Free equipment is available for checkout, and a demonstration day introduced the game to residents. The court now offers a year-round fitness option that encourages health and social connection. "The group that gathered to watch the demonstration was excited about the possibility of playing," said one organizer, noting plans for indoor play during winter.
Fairbury, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Safety hazards and limited amenities at the community center discouraged older adults from fully participating in programs. The project repaired sidewalks, added ADA handrails and installed an indoor walking track with motivational signage. Upgrades also included Wi-Fi and equipment for virtual activities. These changes turned the center into a lively hub for exercise, cultural events and intergenerational programs. Pickleball and walking challenges now draw diverse participants, and stakeholders say the improvements sparked new ideas and investments for lasting impact.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Kansas State Office
6220 SW 29th Street
Suite 300
Topeka, KS 66614
United States