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Batesville, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Inspired by the momentum of a three-year beautification effort, Main Street Batesville made upgrades to a sidewalk that had fallen into disrepair. The improved walkway, which connects Main Street to nearby Mayfield Park, includes new concrete slabs featuring inlaid brick directional arrows. To pay homage to local history, the sidewalk incorporates bricks from the Alder building, a landmark that recently suffered from a wall collapse. Project organizers say the new, even surface is now safer to walk on. Placemaking efforts also involved adding a mural and signage directing people to Mayfield park.
Grand Forks, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: To increase the pedestrian experience in Grand Forks, this project tested improvements to crosswalks at a busy intersection. The City installed temporary curb extensions, designed to shorten the distance needed to cross the street and make pedestrians more visible to drivers. They also used paint to make the crosswalks more noticeable. Additionally, local high school students helped install a sidewalk mural nearby, along with flowerpots and benches. The pop-up demonstration was in place for one month, giving residents time to give their feedback. Since the project, the City Council approved plans for permanent curb extension at the intersection. Organizers hope data gathered will also inspire other streetscape improvements to make the community more walkable.
Guaynabo, PR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: To make walking in Guaynabo safer, this project set up to add crosswalks to several intersections along San Patricio Avenue.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Lake Charles, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space improvements to support recovery after extreme weather events
Description: After four major disasters in two years, many residents lacked safe spaces and internet access to complete digital recovery applications. To close this gap, the project equipped churches with generators, Starlink kits, laptops and tablets. This helped create cooling centers and digital hubs that broadcast free Wi-Fi to surrounding areas. These hubs ensure older adults can access vital resources and stay connected during emergencies. Plans include volunteer training and protocols to maintain disaster readiness.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Welsh, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: An open air pavilion with seating and lighting will be built in the park near City Hall. The structure will support year round gatherings, light activity and a comfortable place for neighbors to meet and connect.
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