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Saratoga Springs, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: The City of Saratoga Springs was working to connect existing trails to its new, 24-mile Saratoga Greenbelt Trail. Ahead of constructing a new trail connection, the City wanted to test proposed streetscape changes meant to accommodate cyclists traveling between the Greenbelt and downtown. The proposal included creating a two-lane cycling path on Henry Street, converting the street from two-way to one-way and dedicating one side to parking. The City conducted a two-week pilot program. Orange cones, temporary pavement striping and a one-foot buffer separated cyclists from street traffic. During the trial, the number of pedestrians using the route increased, and the number of cyclists more than quadrupled. A survey or residents showed general support for the changes. The City ultimately decided to permanently convert Henry Street to one-way to accommodate a two-lane bike path. Project organizers also say the pilot raised awareness of the Greenbelt Trail.

Jacksonville, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: To incentivize business development along Jacksonville's Main Street, the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council worked to improve the appearance of area. They installed trash receptacles, bike racks and bike maintenance stations. The improvements keep the streets clear of litter, give visitors with a safe place to lock their bikes and provide a convenient place to repair bike and wheelchair tires. Organizers say they hope the improvements set the stage for this historic community's continued popularity.

Sheboygan, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: For years, city and county officials have worked to develop extensive network of bike and pedestrian paths in Sheboygan, along with an additional 20 miles of designated bike lanes on roads. To help cyclists make the most of the network, the City of Sheboygan installed five bike repair stations. Each station offers basic tools to keep bikes in good working shape. To support the local economy, the City purchased the stations from a nearby Wisconsin business. Organizers hope the stations increase trail use going forward.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Dover, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Description: This project will extend the installation of five kinetic sculptures in downtown Dover's historic green space. New programming includes workshops, talks, walking tours, and bus tours from local senior centers.

Dover, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Improved wayfinding

Description: The City of Dover wanted to spread the word about its North Street/West Street trail, a bikeable route developed from two smaller trails, constructed with state funding. The new route connects several major neighborhoods, as well as a medical center and employment centers, including Dover's Enterprise Business Park. Hoping to attract plenty of cyclists and pedestrians, Dover's Public Works Department installed signs along the trail. All are situated near street intersections and inform people about the route's existence, as well as which turns they need to make to remain on the route. Since refurbishing the West Street portion of the trail in 2018, Dover has continued to promote cycling for mobility. In 2020, the city published a comprehensive bike and pedestrian plan, which focused on underserved neighborhoods and reducing traffic stress.

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