Cuthbert, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Andrew College activated an empty space in downtown Cuthbert into a practical, attractive gathering space, which they dubbed Magnolia Alley. Two murals by Andrew College artists already decorated the alley, since the college hosts events in the adjoining square. To make the space more useable for famers markets, art receptions and other gatherings, volunteers added benches, lighting and a hardwood pergola to provide shade.

Saint Peter, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will convert a vacant lot into a downtown plaza and community event space, providing a gathering place for residents and visitors.

West Fargo, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: As part of efforts to attract visitors to its downtown, the City of West Fargo hoped to turn its POW/MIA Plaza on Sheyenne Street into a gathering space. To do this, the City purchased game tables for a previously underused portion of the plaza. This project helped demonstratethe importance of creating opportunities for fun and safe activities in the city's new and improved downtown area, City Planner Malachi Petersen said. It is our hope that this project will lead to future projects which encourage walkability and active lifestyles in our community. Today the plaza hosts community events, including a farmers market. Project organizers hope to replicate the games in other parts of West Fargo in the future.