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City of Hammond (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
This project will transform an underutilized public space into a multipurpose place capable of hosting special events that bring older adults and people of all ages together in one cultural location.
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See More Projects Like This One
Vinita, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The City of Vinita set out to create a gathering place for the community to enjoy while making a positive economic impact on local commerce. Through the Route 66 Breezeway Project, they transformed a dark alley along historic Route 66 Main Street corridor into a well-lit, safe pathway. To allow people to gather in the breezeway, the City installed ADA-accessible benches and tables. Art displayed along the alley's walls allow the space to function as an outdoor gallery. The space connects to downtown Vinita, allowing visitors to walk to shops and restaurants there. For residents of new senior living apartments nearby, the area has created a welcoming, art-filled gathering space and enjoyable walking access to downtown. Today, the site hosts a seasonal farmers market, concerts, outdoor dining and meetings.
Gardner, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To generate community support for a planned greenspace in Gardiner, the City created a parklet. Organizers hoped the temporary installation -- created in the footprint of two on-street parking spaces -- would help residents envision the value of outdoor space improvements coming soon to city hall. The pop-up space consists of benches, a table, planters and shade canopies. The parklet's portable, modular design makes the space reconfigurable, allowing the City to set it up different locations -- even after implementation of its long-term park project.
Youngstown, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project activated a vacant space in Youngstown, converting it into a pocket park. Volunteers equipped the mini-park with benches, porch-type swings, a flagpole and picnic tables.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Metarie, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Two retired middle school teachers will train older adults to use their smartphones. Lessons will cover basic skills, such as how to turn the phone on and off, as well as intermediate topics, including making photo albums and deleting apps.
Baton Rouge, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The Center for Planning Excellence set out to improve community health by promoting walking and biking in North Baton Rouge. Partnering with the local parks and recreation commission and utility departments, they improved lighting, directional signage and visibility in and around Longfellow Park. They also founded a walking club and staged a twilight walking event. Additionally, the Center launched a website with information about walking clubs, which also includes a tracking feature where residents can record their health status.
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