Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Mount Clare Community Council addressed unsafe sidewalks that made everyday walking difficult for residents, particularly older adults and people with disabilities who rely on foot travel to reach bus stops, gardens and nearby services. Years of deferred maintenance had left cracked pavement, missing curb ramps and hazardous waiting areas along key routes. The Council completed targeted repairs to more than 1,200 square feet of sidewalks, including rebuilding an ADA ramp, fixing sidewalks in front of homes owned by retired residents and improving access at a busy bus stop and a community garden. The work removed long-standing trip hazards and restored code-compliant access where it was most urgently needed. One retired homeowner sent a brief message of thanks after the sidewalk in front of her home was fixed. The project made daily trips safer and supported ongoing efforts to secure broader, city-led sidewalk improvements.

Clemmons, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Pedestrians along Stadium Drive faced unsafe crossings near the library, school and nearby businesses, putting older adults at particular risk due to poor visibility and steady traffic. The Village of Clemmons installed two solar-powered flashing beacon systems at James Street and Bingham Avenue to make crossings more visible and safer, especially at night. The upgrades improve access to key destinations for older adults and students and are expected to build public support for future traffic calming and safety improvements. The installations also help set the stage for broader community discussions at upcoming transportation summits.

Charlotte, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Charlotte's older adults faced daily risks when navigating unsafe streets, where missing sidewalks, short crossing times and dangerous intersections made routine trips difficult. By speaking with more than 100 residents age 50 and over, the project gathered detailed accounts of these challenges and used them to refine a digital tool that highlights hazardous areas and recommends improvements. Residents' input strengthened the tool's accuracy and helped prompt Charlotte officials to consider it for planning decisions. The effort built trust and gave older adults a clearer voice in shaping safer street design that supports their mobility and confidence.