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Fern Ridge Public Library (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
During the COVID-19 pandemic, staff at the Fern Ridge Public Library were determined to offer a safe outdoor space for residents to congregate. When a large, centuries-old Heritage Oak tree fell on library grounds, they took the opportunity to construct a courtyard, enlisting local artists to create benches from the tree's wood. To make the space inviting, volunteers planted native Oregonian plants and laid down gravel to create an accessible pathway. What had been a weed-covered yard became a peaceful seating area for casual meetings, quiet reading and public performances.
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Des Moines, IA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
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Project Category: Public space activation
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Fairfield, WA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
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Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Eugene, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
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Eugene, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing
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