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City of Morgantown (2018) Print
2018 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Many older adults in Morgantown do errands on foot. But patrons of the city's senior centers reported they often needed to sit and take a break while walking downtown. Unfortunately, the downtown area lacked suitable seating options. To make the space more welcoming, the City of Morgantown installed accessible benches throughout the business district. Project organizers say the new seating has sparked enthusiasm for additional downtown improvements. Additionally, the seating is allowing more people to walk to local shops, restaurants, doctors' offices and other amenities.
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Gallatin, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will improve lighting and outdoor seating at a resource center for older adults. The lighting will increase safety and the center will also add a table, bench and chairs to encourage visitors to socialize.
West Memphis, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The town of West Memphis hoped to promote community connections, cycling and walking. To achieve this, the town set up three parklets in its Main Street District, located near an expanded bike trail that links West Memphis with neighboring Memphis, Tennessee. Parklets -- mini street oases created in the footprint of a parking space -- provide places to sit, talk and gather. The West Memphis parklets each feature LED lighting and public art. Sculptures created from donated bicycles distinguish two of the parklets. The other parklet features new wooden benches and an oversized sculpture of a guitar, meant to pay homage to the town's musical heritage.
Viroqua, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project turned a portion of the library into an aviary and conducted classes on birdwatching there and at other sites, including Side Hollow Park.
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Reedsville, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will install an ADA-compliant water fountain in a town park that is undergoing renovation.
Arthurdale, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will add outdoor amenities near several historic buildings dating to the 1930s. Improvements will include sidewalk repairs and the addition of benches, trash bins, a bike rack and a dog waste station.
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