Readfield, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Readfield's Age-Friendly Committee set out to enhance the town's public spaces and draw the community together. They purchased outdoor furniture to activate two spaces -- one outside the local public library and the other at Readfield Beach on Maranacook Lake. The beach's moveable Adirondack chairs give visitors a change to interact with each other. Additionally, the tables and chairs at the library allow residents to access free Wi-Fi service, even when the library building is closed. Library visitors of all wages can also rest there after enjoying the nearby story walk.

Clearmont, WY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Uneven ground and muddy conditions around the historical center made it difficult for visitors with mobility challenges to reach the building, limiting participation by older adults and wheelchair users. Clearmont Historical Group addressed these barriers by building a new deck and installing a concrete sidewalk that provides a safer, more reliable route between the center and a nearby park. Improved lighting and seating expanded how the space could be used, including for gatherings and evening programs. Volunteers, many age 50 or over, helped complete the work, reinforcing local ownership of the site. Since the improvements, attendance has increased and more residents with varying mobility needs are able to take part in open houses and programs, strengthening the center role as an accessible place to gather and share local history.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Milton-Freewater, OR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project temporarily transformed an underused parking lot into a town plaza, dubbed Freewater Square. First, the Milton-Freewater Downtown Alliance made repairs to the pavement and added electric and water access at the site. They then purchased outdoor furniture, shade umbrellas and games. Volunteers also built planters and installed a stage for performances. To beautify the plaza, project organizers also held a mural painting competition. After the transformation, the plaza hosted monthly events, including live music, movie nights, community art projects and game tournaments -- all of which gave residents a safe way to socialize during the COVID-19 pandemic. Small buildings host pop-ups, allowing the site the act as a small business incubator. Eventually, MFDA plans to revert the site to a parking lot. But project organizers say they will use ideas from the plaza activation to permanently convert a nearby vacant lot into a community market and activity center.