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Searchlight Township, NV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: As part of long-term efforts to improve Rex Bell, Jr. Trails Park, the Searchlight Betterment Organization installed a bocce ball court onsite. The courts are open to the public four days a week and participants can check out game sets to use for free. Project organizers say the courts have helped combat social isolation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since construction completed, the site has offered lessons on the rules of bocce ball, and volunteers have stepped in to coordinate local player groups for adults and children
Charleston, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Hampstead Square is Charleston's oldest public green space. But the square had fallen into disrepair after years of neglect, made worse by flooding. Keep Charleston Beautiful partnered with the City of Charleston to launch a multi-year park revitalization, part of broader work to bring greenspace to the community. They installed an irrigation system and updated landscaping. To give nearby residents free internet access, they also set up a Wi-Fi hotspot. Volunteers -- including community members and local businessowners -- helped complete the work and chip in additional funding. Inspired by the progress, organizers later added a new historic marker and statue of famed Charleston blacksmith Philip Simmons, which inform visitors about the park's legacy. Since the improvements, the space has hosted health and fitness activities, youth programs and free outdoor movie screenings.
Walcott, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The city will revitalize one tennis court with new asphalt and paint and convert a second court into pickleball courts. Pickleball offers beneficial exercise for older adults, since the sport is gentle on the joints.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Vermillion, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The game of horseshoes is popular with many residents in Vermillion. But the city's horseshoe court needed upgrades to make it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. To fix this, the City renovated the four-pit horseshoe court in Prentis Park. They upgraded the pits' clay surface, added an ADA-compliant sidewalk and purchased pit covers to keep the courts clear of weeds and debris. In the future, the City plans to add seating to accommodate spectators and allow player to rest between rounds. Since the renovations, the courts have drawn residents of all ages. City staff plan for the site to host horseshoe leagues, tournaments and other events.
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