Manning, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Organizers with Manning Main Street hoped to encourage visitors to Manning's vibrant downtown to congregate and socialize. To create an inviting environment, they installed twelve artistic lights along Main Street. Local artisans created the lights, which are comprised of panels featuring cutouts depicting local landmarks, including the town's water tower, trestle bridge and historic Lutheran church. The additional illumination also enhances safety in the area. In the years since, Main Street Manning has focused on streetscaping and has added more art installations downtown.

Berlin, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: To give people a place to sit, rest and enjoy a meal, the Town of Berlin purchased tables and seating. The Town sets up the outdoor furniture during events on Main Street. The new amenities also make downtown more accessible, since older adults and people with mobility challenges have a space to rest. Since the improvements, project organizers say residents no longer need to sit on the curb as they eat their lunch.

Dixon, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Webster County Senior Center has delivered meals to homebound older adults for years. But the center has never fully used its large outdoor greenspace and patio. To make the space more appealing, the center created an outdoor seating area with benches, tables and games, which allow visitors to dine outdoors and make social connections. Today, residents use the space for bingo and board games between meals, and the patio hosts community events.