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New York City, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Older adults faced daily risks along Canal Street, where speeding traffic and missing curb cuts made crossing dangerous. To address this, the group led four walk audits and three meetings with more than 100 participants, identifying urgent fixes like leading pedestrian intervals and improved visibility. The effort produced advocacy letters to community boards and influenced DOT's planned redesign, which includes raised crosswalks and speed reductions. One participant said, "I've witnessed multiple crashes... More greenery, slower speeds and safety at the bridge entrance would make it safer for everyone."

Jacksonville, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Mayport Village faced safety risks from missing sidewalks, forcing residents to walk in traffic. A walk audit documented these gaps and engaged experts in mobility and design to strengthen credibility. Findings will be presented to city officials to push for safer streets and improved walkways aligned with Jacksonville's vision plan. One recalled walking with a stroller in the street to vote, saying cars honked and yelled at her- an important reminder of why these changes matter.

Washington, DC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: This project will launch a community walkability and safety initiative to assess and improve pedestrian infrastructure. It aims to enhance mobility by identifying needed sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

North Augusta, SC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Digital Connectivity for Disasters

Description: Older adults in North Augusta faced barriers to reliable internet, limiting telehealth access and emergency communication. To close this gap, the city installed satellite internet at municipal rally centers, creating hubs for connectivity and disaster response. During Hurricane Helene, the centers provided charging stations, food and water distribution and real-time updates, helping residents stay informed and connected. One older resident called the service a lifeline, using it to contact family and receive telehealth consultations during weeks of recovery, underscoring its role in safety and resilience.

Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Organizers with the Augusta Recreation and Parks Department noticed people were driving their vehicles into Henry H. Brigham Park, making park users feel unsafe. This project set out to prevent this, keeping a walking track, basketball court and playground area free from cars and trucks. The Department installed bollards, as well as benches -- which served the dual purpose of giving park patrons a place to rest. Additionally, organizers planted shade trees to make the park more appealing in the summer heat. To draw visitors, the Department also worked to increase recreational programming in the park, including Tai Chi classes.

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