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Fitlot (2017) Print
2017 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
Construction of an ADA-accessible footbridge and walking path connected a community FitLot to the Lafitte Greenway, an active rails-to-trails pedestrian path. Before, people had to jump across a muddy stretch of grass to reach the fitness park from the greenway. Since the City of New Orleans suffers from one of the largest health disparity gaps in the nation, project organizers also set up a no-cost fitness program taught by professional trainers. The classes attract local older adults. "Every time I'm here they are very happy and motivated," trainer Natoya Wayne said. "They interact with each other and encourage each other during the session, and that motivates me."
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Medicine Lodge, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Trails
Description: The Intertribal Powwow Grounds lacked accessible infrastructure, making it hard for tribal elders and visitors to participate fully in cultural events. The association installed a concrete parking area with four accessible spaces, a sidewalk linking key areas and benches for rest. These upgrades created a safe, welcoming environment and set the stage for the Five Tribes Outdoor Museum Trail. Volunteers-many age 50-plus -helped complete the work, ensuring the space will serve as a year-round destination. A tribal member mentioned how helpful the sidewalk and benches are going to be.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Three Forks, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Trails
Description: The City of Three Forks improved its Headwaters Trail system by installing benches and bike racks, as well as signage displaying trail directions and mileage. Project organizers placed the new benches at prime locations for viewing wildlife. The City also modified the pavement where trails cross local streets to make them easily passable for wheelchair users. These improvements helped bolster community support for the Jefferson Trail Loop -- a new trail within the Headwaters system.
Hastings, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Trails
Description: To facilitate outdoor physical activity for its residents, the City of Hastings installed four Rest/Rehydrate/Repair stations along the Pioneer Spirit Trail. Each station features a bench, accessible water fountain and pet dish, as well as a concrete pad where bikes can safety pull off the trail. They included shade trees and other landscaping at each location. In addition, two of the stations feature bicycle repair stands with air pumps and other tools. Since their installation, the 3R stations have welcomed thousands of visitors. As part of plans to expand the Pioneer Spirit Trail, the City plans to construct more 3R stations.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: The Urban Conservancy addressed the lack of accessible, comfortable outdoor space in Gert Town, where older adults had few shaded places to walk, sit or gather near their homes. An unused lot offered little reason to enter and limited access points made it feel disconnected from the neighborhood. The project transformed the site into an inviting orchard and community space by adding an accessible walking path, shade structures, fruit trees, signage and a bike rack. New entrances made the space easier to reach and clearly signaled that neighbors were welcome. Older adults now have a place to spend time outdoors, connect with others and access fresh fruit, while ongoing use and planning are guiding future additions that will keep the space active and cared for.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
New Orleans, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: An accessible walking path with benches, lighting and shade will be built at a housing site for older adults. The path will encourage increased light activity and social interaction in a safe outdoor setting.
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