Chicago, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: The program will offer guided transit training and group rides to help older adults learn bus and train routes. Participants will gain confidence using public transportation to reach health care, stores and community destinations.

Batavia, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: Local officials and community organizations hoped to increase pedestrian and bicycle traffic in downtown Batavia. To do this, the Batavia Environmental Commission, Batavia Bicycle Commission, the WellBatavia Initiative and Batavia Maitreet undertook a research and promotional campaign. They hosted a walk and bike audit that taught residents urban biking skills, such as how to load a bike onto a public bus. The initiative then paired participants with residents of a local retirement community, as well as with families with small children, to help them learn about biking. The group produced a 15-minute video documentary presenting the town's history, showcasing its pedestrian and bike infrastructure and highlighting the need for future improvements. In 2022, Batavia announced it would create a bicycle and walking plan to improve city trails and make intersections safer.

Sioux Falls, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety

Description: 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.