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City of Saratoga Springs (2019) Print
2019 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
The City of Saratoga Springs was working to connect existing trails to its new, 24-mile Saratoga Greenbelt Trail. Ahead of constructing a new trail connection, the City wanted to test proposed streetscape changes meant to accommodate cyclists traveling between the Greenbelt and downtown. The proposal included creating a two-lane cycling path on Henry Street, converting the street from two-way to one-way and dedicating one side to parking. The City conducted a two-week pilot program. Orange cones, temporary pavement striping and a one-foot buffer separated cyclists from street traffic. During the trial, the number of pedestrians using the route increased, and the number of cyclists more than quadrupled. A survey or residents showed general support for the changes. The City ultimately decided to permanently convert Henry Street to one-way to accommodate a two-lane bike path. Project organizers also say the pilot raised awareness of the Greenbelt Trail.
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See More Projects Like This One
Erath, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: COVID-19 pandemic restrictions led to an increase in pedestrian and bicycle activity in Erath, as people sought out safe ways to get around and spend time outdoors. And many residents of the small town do not own cars. For local leaders, the increase in biking and walking represented an opportunity to effect long-term change. Since Erath only had one bike rack, the Town purchased and installed new racks in 16 locations around town to encourage locals to bike to the local park and businesses. Volunteers helped design the racks and coordinate the best places to install them.
Augusta, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Augusta Urban Ministries provided free bikes and equipment, along with safety training, to 25 older adults. Additionally, the organization will offer bike inspections and repairs on an ongoing basis. To build interest in cycling, they also hosted a community bike ride along the Augusta Canal Trail.
Worcester, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To encourage intergenerational cycling, this project created a program that paired twenty teenaged cyclists with twenty older residents and awarded free e-bikes. It also held five bicycle workshops, as well as several group rides.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Northumberland, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will install an accessible kayak launch to provide safe and convenient kayaking for people of all ages, especially those with mobility issues.
Schenectady, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project enlivened an empty lot downtown with murals, ADA-compliant benches, lighting and tables featuring game boards.
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