Columbus, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Long waits at Columbus's main bus station were uncomfortable for older adults and others. METRA installed four swing benches in two courtyard locations, along with protective mulch beds and curbs for safety. Riders now have a soothing, shaded space to relax while waiting for buses, and the project sparked interest in adding similar amenities citywide. The benches face a greenspace courtyard, creating a more livable transit hub. A leader mentioned that now patrons are enjoying their time waiting for the bus.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Chula Vista, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: The City of Chula Vista wanted to increase older adults' familiarity with public transit options. Partnering with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, they held Travel Training 101 courses with more than forty older residents. Instructors provided trainees with information on how to read transit schedules, plan trips and purchase fares. Then they held field trips, using transit to visit a community festival and the Norman Park Senior Center. Additionally, participants received a 30-day senior transit pass. Following the training, participants said they felt more comfortable using transit, with 83 percent planning to renew their passes. One said she realized that the 20-minute bus ride between their home and the Senior Center saved her 62 a month. Previously she paid 40 round trip by taxi at least twice monthly.

Richmond, VA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Volunteers will build and install shaded bench seating at selected bus stops in high-heat areas. The benches will offer safer, cooler waiting spaces for transit riders, especially older adults who use the city’s zero-fare bus system.