Cleveland, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Pickleball -- a game that's a combination of tennis and ping pong -- has exploded in popularity. Because of its relatively small court, the sport involves less running, making it gentler on knees and joints than tennis, so it's particularly appealing to older adults. To accommodate demand for playing space, the City of Findlay converted unused, dilapidated tennis courts in Riverside Park into eight new pickleball courts. Bleacher seating onsite enables the new courts to host leagues and tournaments. Project organizers also installed a bulletin board for sharing information, as well as a wind screen to shield players. Since construction completed, City staff report the courts are full nearly every morning.

South Sioux City, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Siouxland Freedom Park lacked accessible paths, making it difficult for older adults and veterans with mobility challenges to reach its memorials. The project installed more than 8,000 square feet of concrete walkways connecting features like the Freedom Rock, gazebo and interpretive center, along with permanent signage. These improvements not only allow visitors to navigate the park safely but also spurred major investments, including plans for parking areas and a Korean War Memorial. This will create an even more inclusive space for reflection and connection.

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

Kansas City, MO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Major Murray Davis Park in Kansas City's Midtown neighborhood needed a functional and aesthetic makeover. To improve the pocket park, Midtown KC Now removed old landscaping and planted fruit trees and native plants. They also added a walkway, concrete planters, game tables and a portable kiosk to display information. The pocket park is now an attractive space for people of all ages and provides fruit for members of the community. In the future, Midtown KC hoped to turn a nearby parking lot into more park space for residents to enjoy.