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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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Mansfield, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Mansfield's Carrousel District was cut off from the city's newly created Imagination District. To demonstrate the value of connecting the two downtown areas, the Richland Community Development Corporation created a temporary linear park along West Third Street. Organizers hoped the long, narrow park would double as a community gathering pace and pedestrian pathway. The CDC installed benches, pergolas and hammocks and outfitted. Volunteers laid down artificial turf and painted murals onto the pavement. To attract people to the space, the pop-up included activities including self defense classes, interactive art exhibits, children's storytimes, food trucks and live music performances. The two-week activation was part of the CDC's efforts to advocate for a permanent linear park, which organizers say will bring vibrancy to the Carrousel District and reintegrate it into the fabric of Mansfield's downtown.
San Francisco, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project enlivened an alleyway with murals, planters, tables and chairs, ADA-compliant benches, music performances and more.
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.
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.
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Engaging residents in vibrant public places
Description: This project will rehabilitate a community center to create a public space for older adults. The center will include a computer lab for digital literacy, health and nutrition education, and activities to promote social connectedness.
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