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Downtown Sioux Falls Inc. (2025) Print
2025 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Engaging people in transportation options/safety
└ Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Open Streets 2025 responded to gaps in walkability that left many older adults without safe or comfortable ways to move through downtown. The project transformed underused corridors into pedestrian-friendly spaces with accessible seating, slower-paced activities and cultural programming that encouraged people to linger and explore. These events supported older adults by creating calmer routes, offering performances suited to their pace and helping them connect with local businesses. The series also prompted installation of a new crosswalk near a previously inactive area, showing how temporary activations can influence long-term planning. A July 4th event, where volunteers served watermelon slices, showed how simple shared experiences helped strangers connect, break down social barriers and feel welcomed. Many older adults reported walking more and discovering new places, reinforcing how small design changes can create meaningful improvements in daily life.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Athens, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: Dangerous corridors like Baxter Street put older adults and other vulnerable road users at risk, yet traditional crash screenings rarely include local insight. Georgia Bikes piloted a new approach combining data analysis with community input, hosting public sessions and a safety workshop at a nearby center. The project produced an Enhanced Crash Screening Toolkit and a report of community-backed solutions shared with the state transportation department. These efforts aim to prompt safer infrastructure statewide and equip residents with practical strategies to navigate high-risk areas.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Jackson, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: This project will enhance mobility, digital literacy, and public spaces for older adults. The initiative includes accessible transportation solutions, technology training, and park improvements.
Jackson, WY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: To make its car-oriented downtown more pedestrian-friendly, the Town of Jackson held a design workshop to test ideas for improvements to the town square. Held at a local senior center, the workshop allowed town staff to show older residents photos of downtown and get their feedback. The Town then incorporated suggestions from the workshop at a Park(ing) Day event. They converted a parking space into a parklet with outdoor furniture, planters and bike racks. In addition, they offered trishaw rides around the square during the event and for a few weeks afterwards. Town staff interviewed older adults at the event, asking about ways to make downtown more walkable. Organizers then reported what they heard to the town council to inform future improvements. Project organizers say the workshop and Park(ing) Day event built relationships with older adults, which will help keep them involved in the community design process going forward.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Viborg, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will renovate and upgrade a community picnic shelter by improving accessibility, safety, and usability—including ADA-compliant seating, electrical upgrades, and enhancements designed to better serve residents aged 50-plus.
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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