Grand Forks, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management

Description: Many riders who wanted low-impact exercise or an easy way to get around could not use the standard bike share fleet, which made trips difficult for people with limited balance or strength. To address this, the program added e-bikes and adaptive bikes, promoted them at pop-up events and created a video featuring riders age 50-plus. Volunteers helped explain the bikes and encourage new users. The additions led to greater participation among older riders and offered a more comfortable way to stay active. One rider said the adaptive bikes made outings easier, noting, "I didn't have to struggle with my balance... they make me want to get out and enjoy rides more often."

Grand Forks, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: To increase the pedestrian experience in Grand Forks, this project tested improvements to crosswalks at a busy intersection. The City installed temporary curb extensions, designed to shorten the distance needed to cross the street and make pedestrians more visible to drivers. They also used paint to make the crosswalks more noticeable. Additionally, local high school students helped install a sidewalk mural nearby, along with flowerpots and benches. The pop-up demonstration was in place for one month, giving residents time to give their feedback. Since the project, the City Council approved plans for permanent curb extension at the intersection. Organizers hope data gathered will also inspire other streetscape improvements to make the community more walkable.