Cascade, ID

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Trails

Description: Older residents wanted more places to rest along the Strand Trail, a two-mile route central to Cascade's age-friendly plan. Without benches, many avoided longer walks, limiting exercise and social connection. The city installed five durable benches on recycled asphalt bases, creating safe, year-round resting spots. Volunteers helped with installation and outreach to promote use. The benches encourage older adults to walk farther and enjoy birdwatching and conversations along the river corridor. One regular user said the benches mean she can walk farther because "there are now places to rest along the way."

Cascade, ID

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Trails

Description: A half-mile section of Cascade's popular Strand Trail was muddy, icy or snowy much of the year. To make it accessible year-round, the City of Cascade leveled and paved the trail's surface. Project organizers also added three new benches and wayfinding signage. The improved trail segment connects two branches of the Strand Trail, which meanders for two miles along the Payette River and offers visitors stunning views of nearby mountains and bird watching and fishing opportunities. Additionally, it extends access to a visitor's center and to Kelly's Whitewater Park, a nonprofit facility serving whitewater rafters, kayakers and paddle boarders. The City is planning to pave another trail section in the future.

Presque Isle, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Trails

Description: The Presque Isle Bike Walking Trail winds four miles through the heart of town. Working with the local hospital, the City constructed three new trail loops near the local community center, where users can find a water fountain, restrooms and concessions. They also added landscaping, a new bridge and two dedicated parking lots to provide easier access to the trail system. The new loops allow visitors to opt for shorter walks without having to backtrack to return to the trail entrance. Additionally, they provide a more direct connection to downtown, as well access to a playground, splash pad, athletic fields, public market and Riverside Park.