Dallas, TX

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: This project introduced temporary public space interventions to start a community conversation about the pedestrian experience. First, local nonprofit buildingcommunityWORKSHOP held a public meeting to identify challenging conditions along Marilla Street, including obstructed sidewalks, narrow walkways, tripping hazards and absent curb cuts. They then set up a booth at a community event to ask residents about their experiences navigating downtown Dallas on foot. Based on their learnings, buildingcommunityWORKSHOP created colorful, portable ramp units and installed them on local sidewalks, making them ADA-compliant. This demonstrated to the community the value of walking accessible routes. Organizers plan to use learnings from the pop-up project to engage local elected leaders on accessibility and walkability issues.

Spearfish, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: This project improved crosswalks -- as well as directional signage -- in Spearfish. Organizers worked to identify areas frequented by older adults. Then they ensured intersections in those areas had curb cuts, making them more accessible.

St. Louis, MO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: To improve pedestrian safety, this project helped build and creatively paint two crosswalks on a prominent boulevard where there are long stretches without designated crossings.