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City of Lakeland (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
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.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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See More Projects Like This One
Frederiksted, VI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: After hurricanes destroyed the Estate Adventure Nature Trail, St. Croix residents lacked safe walking spaces on an island with few sidewalks. The Trail Alliance rebuilt the pavilion with durable materials, cleared invasive vegetation and created a two-mile shaded trail with benches, picnic tables and historical signage. A new parking area improves access, and the site now hosts hikes and community events. At the opening, attendees shouted "YES!" when asked if they wanted more projects like this, signaling strong demand for safe, green spaces.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Stratford, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Trails
Description: Stratford Walks addressed high rates of chronic illness among older adults and limited safe walking options. The town redesigned maps, printed 500 booklets and installed benches to make routes more inviting. A kickoff event and volunteer-led outreach doubled weekly walking club attendance and engaged residents who had been inactive. The program sparked new initiatives like branded signage and integration into a future trails master plan. One caregiver shared that he now realizes how much his patient could enjoy participation in club activities, a reminder of how movement and connection transform daily life.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Maplewood, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Trails
Description: Park visitors, including many older adults, once had to walk on grass or a busy road to reach playgrounds and ballfields, creating safety concerns. The project installed a 560-foot asphalt path to complete the park's interior loop, restored a historic entryway and planted dawn redwoods for future shade. Volunteers added shrubs and perennials during a community planting day, strengthening community pride. The path quickly became a well-used asset, giving older adults safer access and space for exercise. One frequent parkgoer said, "It looks like it's always been there, because it should have been!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Lakeland, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Transportation Other
Description: The city will improve pedestrian safety along a busy boulevard by installing crosswalk signage, pavement striping and a speed table. These upgrades will create a safer, more walkable connection between nearby housing and activity centers.
Lakeland, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: Skilled volunteers will build home entry ramps and access features for older adults with mobility challenges. Safer entrances will reduce fall risk and help people continue living at home after injury or illness.
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