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City of Hebron (2020) Print
2020 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
The walking trail along the Little Blue River on Hebron's south side is an important pedestrian artery, connecting an area hospital and wellness center with camping, outdoor sports and fitness facilities. To improve public safety and expand the hours when residents can use the path, Hebron installed solar-powered lights. The Thayer County Walking Coalition, a local advocacy group, has worked to convince local officials to improve the trail and promote its use. With their input, the City has increased the length of local trails by about two miles in recent years. Going forward, the coalition and City hope to install lighting along additional trail segments.
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Lakeland, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: Lakeland's Dixieland neighborhood lacked a safe route for older adults to reach Drane Park and nearby shops. The Hillcrest Street Connection added ADA ramps, striped crosswalks, speed humps and flashing beacons at key intersections. They also installed wayfinding signs linking three major walking and biking routes. These upgrades slowed traffic and improved safety, making it easier for residents to walk and connect with the broader trail network. As one neighborhood leader said, "The two speed bumps and the new crosswalk improvements have made this safer for both motorists and pedestrians."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Poplar Bluff, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: Poplar Bluff lacked a safe, continuous route connecting city neighborhoods to the Wolf Creek Trail, limiting mobility for older adults who rely on trails for recreation and access to services. The project built a 1.8-mile ADA-accessible concrete connector and installed an ADA bench, linking the city's trail system to 21 miles of forest paths. This permanent improvement opens year-round access to nature and supports physical and mental well-being. Early counts show more than 1,000 users, and the trail has spurred community events and investment. One resident said, "There isn't a day that goes by that I don't see people on that trail."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Jackson, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Trails
Description: Jackson's Museum Trail lacked inviting spaces for rest and social connection. The foundation added plazas with benches, bike racks, pet stations, trash cans and murals under the Fortification Street bridge. This helped create vibrant stops along the trail. These upgrades made the trail more welcoming for older adults and families and helped secure approval for future phases. One resident said that he was so excited about the transformation along the newly accessible trail, and expressed how much he now enjoys walking along it with his family.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Hebron, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Trails
Description: The Thayer County Walking Coalition aims to provide local residents with opportunities to walk and bike. This project improved trails in the City of Hebron. To create places for walkers to socialize, the coalition added seating areas with shade trees, benches and trash cans. Project organizers installed new signs guiding people to local attractions, including the World's Largest Covered Porch Swing and the site of a World War II POW camp.
Fairbury, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Safety hazards and limited amenities at the community center discouraged older adults from fully participating in programs. The project repaired sidewalks, added ADA handrails and installed an indoor walking track with motivational signage. Upgrades also included Wi-Fi and equipment for virtual activities. These changes turned the center into a lively hub for exercise, cultural events and intergenerational programs. Pickleball and walking challenges now draw diverse participants, and stakeholders say the improvements sparked new ideas and investments for lasting impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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