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Go Green Wilmette (2017) Print
2017 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
Environmental advocacy group Go Green Wilmette raised awareness of cycling through tactical urbanism, which involve short-term, low-cost changes meant to inspire longer-term improvements. The organization staged a village bicycle ride in partnership with the Wilmette Park District and Bike Wilmette. Along the route, the group installed a temporary protected bicycle lane. They did this using a pop-up toolkit they created, which includes planters, stencils and signs for use in temporary demonstrations. Go Green Wilmette later redeployed these items at school bike rodeo safety events and made them available to residents to use at block parties. In 2021, Wilmette's village board approved its Master Bike and Active Transportation Plan. Shaped by community input, the plan aims to improve pedestrian and cycling access to the Village's business district, parks, schools, transit stations and other destinations.
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Lovettsville, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Without secure bike parking, older adults had fewer options for low-cost, healthy transportation and social connection. The town installed three steel bike racks in front of Town Hall, creating a safe, central spot for cyclists to access shops, events and community spaces. The racks encourage biking for errands and recreation, reducing reliance on cars and promoting physical activity. They've sparked community pride and support future plans for bike-friendly infrastructure, reinforcing Lovettsville's commitment to active living for residents of all ages. One resident said "This project has not only enhanced the convenience for those who enjoy biking, but it has also encouraged a more active lifestyle within the overall community."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cumberland, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Older adults who wanted to enjoy local forest trails often could not walk long distances or manage a two-wheel bicycle, leaving many disconnected from nature close to home. By adding fat tire tricycles and helmets and inviting residents to help assemble them, the town created an accessible way to explore five miles of wooded paths. Early riders showed how meaningful this new access was. One woman said she had lived there for 37 years and never knew the trails existed. The project boosted confidence, reduced isolation and encouraged plans for more inclusive outdoor programs.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Maywood, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Many Maywood residents lacked affordable bike maintenance, limiting mobility for commuters, older adults and unhoused individuals who depend on bicycles. To address this, the library installed a public repair station with eight tethered tools and a manual air pump near its entrance, creating free access for routine and complex fixes. Within days, residents were using the station, helping older adults stay active and connected to local trails. The project also complements the Healthy Maywood initiative, promoting safe, low-cost transportation options for the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Evanston, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Accessory dwelling units, tiny homes and manufactured housing
Description: To help mitigate housing affordability challenges, the City of Evanston created a digital guide for homeowners looking to build accessory dwelling units to their property. Written in partnership with the Evanston Development Cooperative, the guide covers zoning, financing, design and construction, as well as information about who typically lives in ADUs. Additionally, the City hosted a webinar on ADU construction, which it recorded and posted on its website. In fall 2020, the City updated its ADU ordinance to give homeowners more flexibility, allowing them to create separate housing units either attached to or within their existing homes. Project organizers say the guidebook has helped spread the word about the update. ADU construction in Evanston has increased since the guidebook's publication and City has worked to make model ADU blueprints available to residents.
Skokie, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Orchard Village set out to help older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities prepare for emergencies by offering clear guidance and accessible tools. The team held disaster preparedness trainings for clients, staff and family members, creating contact books, checklists and tailored presentations. They also distributed go-bags, whistles and flashlights. They equipped each community home with a waterproof emergency kit stocked with essential items. Participants said the sessions opened their eyes to the risks they may face and motivated them to create their own go-bags. Staff reported feeling more confident supporting clients during emergencies and the improvements strengthened readiness across all homes.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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