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Omaha, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Two South Omaha intersections lacked safe crossings, contributing to serious injuries for pedestrians, including older adults. The city installed modular refuge islands, ADA-compliant ramps, new crosswalks and signage to make crossings safer, with LED lighting planned next. The quick-build approach gave officials experience for future projects and drew attention to pedestrian safety. "This is a great corridor to install this infrastructure," said Metro Transits CEO, citing its importance for a heavily used transit route.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: The #70 Grand bus route in Saint Louis lacked seating and shelter, forcing riders-many older adults-to perch on tree fencing or wait in rain and heat. A new sustainable bus shelter now offers seating, solar lighting and a planter box with native plants, creating a safer and more comfortable wait. The design prompted Metro to adopt similar features and drew interest in solar upgrades for future shelters. A longtime rider said he's "so happy to finally have a bus shelter" for errands, underscoring how small changes can transform daily transit for older adults.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Chillicothe, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: A planning study revealed a lack of accessibility throughout the Chillicothe Transit System, with some riders to sit on the ground while they wait for the bus. To address this, the City stepped in the make bus stops more accommodating for riders of all ages and abilities. First, project organizers identified areas of town with high numbers of older adult transit riders and passengers with mobility challenges. Then they installed benches -- as well as swing sets -- at several bus stops. They also added bus shelters at two stops and erected new signage at more than 60 others. In the future, project organizers plan to add a mural to the pavement at the local library's bus stop. Organizers say the improvements make waiting for the bus more comfortable, which may lead to increased ridership.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Indianapolis, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: John Boner Neighborhood Centers addressed preparedness gaps facing older adults in community housing, where limited incomes and access to supplies can increase risk during fires, power outages and extreme winter weather. The project paired practical education with direct support by distributing fire safety and winter weather kits to residents age 50 and over. Distribution events created opportunities for staff to share safety guidance, check in on wellness needs and reinforce available resources. Residents left with tools they could use immediately and information they could apply over time, strengthening confidence and independence at home. One participant described the relief of having multiple needs met in one place after receiving both safety supplies and help accessing supportive footwear, calling the experience a "blessing." The project deepened trust between residents and staff and established a foundation for continued safety outreach and preparedness programming.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Fort Wayne, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Fort Wayne's Wells Street corridor lacked safe crossings and inviting spaces, leaving pedestrians vulnerable. The project improved three crosswalks and activated unused areas with seating, lighting and planters. Volunteers built furniture and hosted events that fostered social connections and safer movement. One organizer mentioned that residents now request more gatherings and using the new furniture and planters, leading to a better sense of community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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