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Shawnee, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: For years, officials in the City of Shawnee heard complaints from residents of the historic Jefferson Terrace neighborhood about vehicles speeding and running the four-way stop sign at an intersection. To reduce vehicle speeds and increase pedestrian safety, the City replaced the ignored stop signs with a mini traffic circle, the first of its kind in Shawnee. The City collected data traffic speeds and volume before and after the circle's installation, which proved that although traffic counts remained the same, vehicular speeds slowed down. The success of the project has inspired Shawnee officials to consider similar traffic calming interventions at other locations.
Enid, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Project organizers with Main Street Enid hoped to get drivers to notice pedestrians crossing the street. To do this, they commissioned a local artist to create crosswalks murals. Community members helped paint the designs, which depict a sunset, a cityscape, a flower motif and grains of wheat. In addition to increasing pedestrian safety, project organizers say the artistic crosswalks beatify Enid's arts district.
Macon, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Residents in two adjacent neighborhoods faced unsafe walking conditions and a lack of pedestrian infrastructure, especially in Pleasant Hill, where many older adults live. To address this, Bike Walk Macon worked with residents and artists to install four artistic crosswalks at a key intersection during Open Streets Macon. More than 50 volunteers helped, and over 1,000 people attended the event. The murals improved crosswalk visibility and sparked plans for future traffic-calming projects. As one participant noted, the art increases visibility of crosswalks and causes motorists to be more cautious and alert. This has helped bridge the gap between the two through art and a common goal to make its residents safer.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Windsor Locks, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: A paved alley between the adult center and the housing authority offered no greenery or seating, leaving residents without a welcoming outdoor space. The town converted the area into a vibrant patio with raised garden beds, ADA-compliant tables, bistro lights and decorative fencing. Older adults quickly began using the space for meals and conversation, and plans for a garden club and workshops are underway. The project has paved the way to creating a hub for social connection and intergenerational activities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Simsbury, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: Many residents needed clear guidance on how to remain safe and independent in their homes as they aged, and local leaders saw a gap in accessible information about home modifications and assistive technology. The town's Aging and Disability Commission subcommittee hosted three events that offered practical advice from experts, hands-on demonstrations through the Smart Home on Wheels and direct access to service providers at an Aging-in-Place Expo that drew more than 250 attendees. Residents received the AARP HomeFit Guide and connected with builders, attorneys, transportation providers and others who could help them plan changes that support aging in place. Strong feedback prompted nearby towns to inquire about replicating the model. The subcommittee now plans to make the Expo a yearly event to sustain these connections and help more residents prepare for long-term independence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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