Victor, ID

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Accessibility of amenities

Description: To help residents with mobility challenges access its facilities, the Valley of the Tetons Library received new stairs and an outdoor gathering area. Organizers replaced the old, uneven stairs with a new staircase featuring steps that are a uniform size and shape, a larger landing and safety railings. Additionally, library staff poured a concrete patio and added benches and planters outside the library's entrance. This created an outdoor area where library patrons can access free Wi-Fi, even when the library is closed for the day. We provide a lot more things than books, program specialist Rasheil Stranger said.

Jackson, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: As part of efforts to activate a new green space in downtown Jackson, the Jackson Hole Land Trust commissioned local artists to design benches for the space. All three benches meet ADA accessibility standards, with designs that encourage visitors to sit, touch and climb. Project organizers installed the seating ahead of a grand opening celebration for the Greenspace on the Block, a conservation easement that features walking trails and provides an outdoor venue for community activities.