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City of Oconomowoc (2017) Print
2017 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
This alley activation project turned a stark passageway between the lakefront and downtown retail into a livelier pedestrian link. Project organizers added a painted design on the pavement and constructed trellises to provide shade. The City chose not to close the alleyway during the transformation work. Instead, passersby were invited to lend a hand to the rejuvenation process by painting a faux floor tile (or several). This also allowed visitors to ask questions about the transformation happening before their eyes. The project sparked conversations about how to activate the other downtown alleys, each with its own unique look and distinctive experience. And when the City reconstructed its boardwalk, it borrowed the trellis design used in the alleyway. People now change their routes to experience the walkway, city planner Kristi Weber said. It gets folks to lift their heads up, look around and enjoy some untraditional and unexpected art.
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See More Projects Like This One
Bowman, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project transformed a vacant lot on Bowman's Main Street into a community garden and pocket park. The Bowman County Development Corporation activated the space by adding accessible seating, an outdoor dining area, flowerpots and a shade structure. Residents of the small town were encouraged to get involved by laying pavers and planting grass, while a sign at the garden's entrance invites visitors to pull a weed or two and enjoy the fresh produce. Since the improvements, other local organizations have added to the garden, installing bike racks and a self-watering plot showcasing native plants.
Greeley, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project supported the City of Greeley's efforts to create a downtown corridor. The placemaking effort involved adding decorative light poles along State Highway 38.
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.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
West Allis, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: The fire department will provide home safety inspections using the AARP HomeFit Guide, mitigating fall risks in older adults' homes. Firefighters will then install safety devices, such as bathroom grab bars and smoke detectors.
Greendale, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: After gathering feedback from focus groups with residents, the Greendale Health Department installed directional signs and benches along the village's walking trails. A number of local organizations participated, including the Girls Scouts and students from the local school district. With help from the Greendale Women's Club, they also created and distributed maps of the trails. Project organizers say the effort allowed for community engagement and the new benches, signs and map help residents and visitors better utilize the community's trails.
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