Cuba City, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: For more than ten years, Cuba City's planning documents promised an intergenerational gathering space downtown. This project made good on that promise, converting a gravel parking lot into a gathering space. Organizers hoped the Presidential Plaza Project would increase walkability and draw traffic to Cuba City's Main Street business district. To activate the space, volunteers installed a bike rack, outdoor games and picnic tables with umbrellas for shade. A Wi-Fi hotspot provides free internet access for visitors. To beautify the area, residents painted a large mural on the pavement, which pays tribute to frontline workers' contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. A later addition to the mural depicts the Mississippi river and includes an area for visitors to play hopscotch.

Ashton, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The grant will fund renovations to the organization's multipurpose center, including creation of walking trails and expansion of the community garden.

Bondurant, IA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will create a garden and trail featuring five works of art displayed along Lake Petocka's shoreline. The city will also construct a new kayak launch and install seating and lighting onsite.