AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Lions and Rabbits Center for the Arts (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Faded sidewalk art along Plainfield Avenue made the corridor less inviting and harder to navigate, especially for older adults. To restore visibility and improve walkability, the group revitalized nearly one mile of sidewalks with new designs featuring wayfinding elements. Three volunteer painting days engaged residents of all ages, using adaptive tools so everyone could participate. The refreshed sidewalks now guide pedestrians to shops and public spaces, while the collaborative process strengthened intergenerational ties and sparked a sense of ownership that supports future placemaking efforts.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Newfolden, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: City of Newfolden set out to solve a clear problem: older adults who rely on the local Senior Center had no accessible outdoor place to meet, socialize or enjoy fresh air. The city created a gathering space with ADA compliant seating, weather-ready awnings and table scapes designed for wheelchairs, giving residents a comfortable place for conversation, meals and games. The improvements support daily connection and help older adults stay engaged in community life. Final pieces, including two custom table scapes, will complete the site. Local students and volunteers will help activate the area, strengthening intergenerational ties and long term use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Saint Peter, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A long-vacant downtown lot in Saint Peter was transformed into a vibrant plaza after decades of inactivity. Volunteers painted a 70-by-70-foot mural, built benches, picnic tables and added lighting and signage to create a welcoming space for gatherings. Events such as live music, art fairs and literary readings introduced residents to placemaking and sparked conversations about revitalization. "Watching people look around with fresh eyes... was magic," said an organizer, noting the plaza has become the only true downtown gathering spot and a catalyst for future projects.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Monmouth, OR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Older adults lacked outdoor spaces near the Senior Community Center, limiting social interaction and visibility in downtown life. The city tested two temporary alley designs with seating, tables, planters and lighting, hosting events like Tai Chi and art parties to gather feedback. The alley now serves as a lively gathering spot, fostering nintergenerational engagement and shaping a permanent plan that includes shaded seating and rotating art displays. One visitor said, "Love, love, love it! Makes me so happy to utilize otherwise empty space."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Grand Rapids, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Long Michigan winters left older adults at Reflections Apartments isolated and unable to garden, a key source of connection and activity. Dwelling Place built an ADA-compliant greenhouse through five volunteer events, engaging many community members and local partners. The space extends the growing season and supports a seed-starting program led by residents. Older adults now plan to grow culturally relevant vegetables and share stories tied to gardening traditions, turning the greenhouse into a year-round hub for wellness and social connection.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Grand Rapids, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Trails
Description: To encourage residents to walk and socialize, the North End Wellness Coalition installed seven benches along the North Quarter Pathways, an urban walking trail in Grand Rapids' Creston neighborhood. The ADA-compliant seating is designed to accommodate residents with limited mobility. To promote walking on the Pathways' five trail loops, the Coalition also founded an Active Living Team, which is working to plan community events and programming. Project organizers say working with City staff to install the benches laid the ground for other improvements throughout Grand Rapids, including upgrades to local parks and new scooter and bike racks.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Michigan State Office
309 N. Washington Square
Suite 110
Lansing, MI 48933
United States