North Augusta, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Uneven sidewalks and poorly marked crossings made downtown North Augusta difficult to navigate, especially for older adults. A walk audit engaged residents age 50-plus to identify hazards and suggest fixes. The project included two community meetings and immediate upgrades like better lighting and safer crossings. Findings informed updates to the downtown master plan and sparked momentum for long-term improvements. One participant said it felt empowering to voice concerns and later see changes such as traffic-calming features, making trips to meet friends or run errands more confident and enjoyable.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Chicago, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Unsafe sidewalks and crossings near 87th and Stony Island left older adults hesitant to walk and feeling isolated. Black Cornerstones audited 253 intersections, gathered resident stories and launched the Reimagine Stony Campaign. The effort produced a detailed walk plan, formed a walking club and hosted a block party to share findings. These steps sparked ongoing safety improvements and inspired similar efforts in other neighborhoods. One participant, age 84, said, "I used to be afraid to walk around my block, but now I feel safe and connected to my neighbors."

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Sheridan, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Two walk audits will examine pedestrian safety along a busy Main Street corridor. Community meetings will review findings to inform future planning decisions.