Fort Wayne, IN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Trail users often passed Stillwater Hospice without knowing its prairie and pond were open to the public, and the existing path was inaccessible for people with mobility challenges. The project installed ADA-compliant curb cuts, flattened a steep curve and added a cement pad for bike racks, a trash can and doggie pot. New directional and educational signs now guide visitors and highlight prairie features. A retired cyclist noted that she rides past this area all the time but did not know about the pond or prairie until the new signs and ADA ramps went in, and that she looks forward to returning. These changes are expected to boost community walks and bike rides starting from Stillwater Hospice.

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

Chicago, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Chicago's Clark Street commercial district is a busy area for commuters and shoppers. To increase safety, decrease crime and beautify the neighborhood, the Rogers Park Business Alliance created its Cross the Street: Art on Clark project. Organizers painted murals on the pavement at intersections near the local commuter train station, as well as on side streets leading to the Clark Street shopping district. The permanent art installations are meant to encourage drivers to slow down as they approach. Also meant to be a placemaking intervention, the pavement art also encourages pedestrians to engage with local businesses. Since installation, project organizers say Art on Clark has improved economic vitality and public safety in the neighborhood.

Pensacola, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: The Gonzalez Street Shareway in Pensacola is a wide, busy road dominated by cars. To demonstrate how the thoroughfare could accommodate both vehicles and pedestrians, Bike Pensacola conducted a one-day demonstration of traffic calming features. Bike Pensacola fabricated traffic circles and temporarily narrowed the roadway from four to two lanes. To test out the traffic control measures, about 300 bicyclists participated in a slow ride along the Shareway, cycling between three Pensacola parks. Additionally, Bike Pensacola partnered with local businesses and organizations to bring a local art market to the shareway including a sidewalk book sale, food trucks, self-guided walking tours and a scavenger hunt.