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Huron Housing Authority (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
Several years ago, the Huron Housing Authority transformed a vacant city lot into a new dog park, giving residents a much-needed outdoor gathering space. However, when work completed on Cook Park, project organizers realized park visitors had no place to escape the sun's hot rays. To provide shade and improve the park's appearance, the Authority planted nine trees onsite. The park also received a new water fountain, pet waste receptacles and a bulletin board, thanks to donations from local nonprofits. Project organizers say they hope the improved park will spark other investment in the diverse neighborhood.
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See More Projects Like This One
Amesville, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Since Amesville earned its designation as a Bee City USA, the village has worked to sustain pollinators. To provide pollinating birds and insects with a habitat rich in native plants and free from insecticides, the Village created a pollinator garden. The effort activated an underused meadow in Gifford Park. Volunteers used a natural herbicide to clear out unwanted grass, then spread compost and seeded the half-acre site with wildflowers. They also constructed birdboxes and installed seating and signage. Since completing the project, the Village has hosted mini-festivals onsite, which feature walking tours of the garden.
Chicago, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will install a comfortable and attractive circular tree bench in a park where residents can sit while they wait for the bus.
Blue Rapids, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project transformed a basketball court in City Park into two pickleball courts. The fast-paced, low-impact game is a cross between tennis and ping-pong and is popular among older adults. To attract more people to the sport, Blue Rapids Community Action Team also hosted an event teaching residents about how to play pickleball, as well as the game's health and social benefits.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Rapid City, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will install ADA-compliant park benches, designed and built by students, at a farmers market and city park.
Canistota, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project set out to improve an undeveloped park. To do this, the City installed accessible picnic tables, benches and a water fountain onsite. Organizers hope the improvements improve safety at the park, making residents more likely to visit.
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