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City of Orofino (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Residents in Orofino lacked places to rest along a hilly one-mile loop connecting a long-term care facility, hospital and parks. This made walks difficult for older adults and those without cars. The city installed eight ADA-compliant benches at key spots near the river, high school and skate park. Volunteers age 50-plus helped with site prep and placement decisions. The benches quickly became gathering points for relaxation and conversation.
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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Dunedin, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project added universal-access picnic tables to the playground at the library. It also created a story walk with signage explaining the city's history and other distinctions.
San Diego, CA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Part of Vision Zero work to reduce pedestrian fatalities, City Heights CDC worked to create a sense of space and improve safety at a dangerous intersection. The City Heights neighborhood is an enclave for refugees from Somalia and other East African countries. Residents -- particularly those 50 or older -- often gather in parking lots and on sidewalks at the busy area along University Avenue, which home to shops, markets and mosques. This placemaking project created a safe gathering space, separated from vehicle traffic. Working with residents' input, the CDC designed the space to reflect the neighborhood's culture. They installed seating, planter and tables with board game tops and painted a mural onsite. Organizers say the space helps combat social isolation and is a catalyst for investment in the neighborhood.
Springfield, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: In the 1980s, many businesses moved out of Springfield's downtown. But in recent years, a new generation of entrepreneurs, artists and gig workers have begun repopulating the city's main commercial district. In light of the area's new vibrancy, the Commercial Street Community Improvement District is working to market the area and tell its story. The CID created a series of parklets with outdoor seating to give visitors a space to socialize and relax. They also commissioned a local artist to create a mural, using community feedback to inform the final design. The mural fits within a larger street art project. CID organizers say they hope these improvements will help the community develop a renewed sense of place.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Kamiah, ID
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To create a gathering place for their rural community and provide opportunities for social connection, the Carrot Ridge Volunteer Fire District equipped its red-sided, barn-like building with tables, chairs and small appliances. They then hosted a dinner to thank the many volunteers who donated time, land, building supplies and more to build the center during its construction. Since then, the center has hosted chili cook-offs, a community Thanksgiving event and barbeques for hundreds of residents.
Lapwai, ID
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: Residents in Lapwai lacked accessible spaces for technology use and health resources, forcing older adults to travel long distances for care and leaving few options for social connection. The library responded by installing a covered bus stop and ADA-compliant outdoor seating with 24/7 Wi-Fi. It also upgraded indoor areas with adaptive furniture and charging stations. A telehealth pod with health monitoring tools and digital signage was added to improve access. These changes sparked new programs like adult craft nights and created inclusive spaces for learning, care and community engagement.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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