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.

Truth or Consequences, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: Main Street Truth or Consequences set out to improve the walkability of downtown Truth or Consequences. The small New Mexico city got its name from a 1950s TV show and is known for its colorful annual fiesta that features a parade, calf roping and a rubber duck race on the Rio Grande. This project replaced deteriorated sidewalks and reduced tripping hazards. The organization also created its Walk Downtown outreach program to encourage residents to take up walking. Walking remains a popular activity in Truth and Consequences thanks in part to the three-mile-long Healing Waters Trail, which starts and ends downtown.

St. Paul, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017

Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement

Description: The city government in St. Paul hoped to enhance walkability through safety improvements at two unmarked pedestrian crossings along Marion Street. To accomplish that, the city created two long-term temporary crosswalks at Ravoux and Fuller Streets. The work included adding pedestrian crosswalk signs, painting high-visibility block-pattern crosswalk markings and installing pedestrian refuge islands and bump-outs. The city also restricted parking near the intersections and installed a temporary radar speed sign along the corridor. The project enabled local government agencies and civic organizations to gather data needed to support permanent crosswalks upgrades in the area. Using the results, the city began its re-envisioning Marion Street as a pedestrian-friendly, multi-modal corridor in 2021.