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Lake City DIRT (2019) Print
2019 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Park enhancements
└ Park enhancements
Lake City DIRT and town officials built a wood-framed pavilion in a park to house cultural, educational, recreational and community events. Construction finished in time for the pavilion to serve as an outdoor dining area during COVID-19 shutdowns in 2020. Since installation, project organizers have seen a 60 percent uptick in visitors in the area.
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Dexter, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The Town of Dexter installed new benches on local streets and in parks to make them more accessible for older adults and those with mobility issues. Three parks -- Wayside, Ronco and Veterans Parks -- received the new benches. The Town also paved the entrance of Wayside Park, a popular gathering space for free weekly summer concerts. In addition, the Town offered Pop-Up Universities intended to provide residents with activities for learning, creativity and physical wellbeing, as well as social interaction. Topics include flower arranging, meditation and chair yoga.
Statesville, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: When Iredell County received a donation of an eight-acre parcel of land, they saw an opportunity to provide physical fitness options in a neighborhood that lacked recreational amenities. As part of efforts to create East Iredell Lions Club Community Park, this project created a half-mile walking path onsite. Organizers hope to extend the trail in the future. Additionally, the path represents the first step toward constructing a new community center, which will address health disparities by giving residents access to exercise equipment.
Haymarket, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: This project will enhance accessibility by installing benches and native plants along the trail. This project aims to benefit older adults and visitors with mobility challenges, while promoting wildlife watching opportunities.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Montrose, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults in rural Colorado often miss medical care or social activities because of limited transportation and harsh weather at exposed bus stops. To address this, All Points Transit began adding benches and shelters along expanded routes, giving riders safe seating and protection from snow, rain and extreme temperatures. Volunteers assisted with planning while contractors prepared concrete pads for installation. These upgrades will make public transit more accessible and comfortable, helping older adults maintain independence and reduce isolation.
Durango, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: This project will install a temporary bike lane on Junction Creek Road to increase safety for all road users. The lane will connect municipal amenities and promote a safer environment for walking and cycling.
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