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Loogootee Beautification Committee (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public art installations
└ Public art installations
As part of efforts to create a new, multi-use community space, the Loogootee Beautification Committee commissioned a local artist to create a massive mural downtown. Community members worked with the artist to plan the artwork, which they then installed on the side of an abandoned building on Loogootee's main square. Work occurred as the City prepared to renovate the building and revitalize the area. In the future, the City hopes to hold its annual festival at the site of the mural. Project organizers also report the project helped gather community feedback, which will inform future placemaking projects.
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See More Projects Like This One
Mount Sterling, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: This project will install three interpretive panels along the Adena Trail, overlaying historic images onto the landscape, and add a picnic area.
Parkersburg, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: Downtown PKP wanted to build on its efforts to bring public art to Parkersburg. Over the years, the nonprofit created selfie stations and displayed welcome banners in the central business district. This project added a 40-foot mural. Downtown PKB held community listening sessions, where they asked residents what they love most about their town, as well as about their hopes for the future. Using the responses, a team of artists developed a design depicting a collage of smiling faces, local landmarks and butterflies. During four public paint parties, 300 volunteers worked to install the mural on the side of the Parkersburg Art Center. Project organizers say the collaborative effort culminated in public art that beautified Parkersburg's downtown.
Blacksburg, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: To help downtown recover from pandemic isolation, the Association created a mural that celebrates nature and local heritage. An artist age 50-plus designed the 20-by-10-foot piece featuring Stroubles Creek and native plants, turning a blank wall into a vibrant landmark. The mural now anchors plans for an art walk and streetscape, drawing older adults and other residents into public spaces. "It was my pleasure to participate in such a great event," said one supporter, noting the mural's role in showcasing local talent and sparking renewed interest in public art.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Washington, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: Older adults in Washington struggled with limited transit and safety concerns that kept them from using the bike library. To address this, six adult trikes with helmets, baskets and safety gear were added to the library at Jamestown Square Apartments. A health fair introduced the trikes and promoted active living. Residents now ride to stores, appointments and community events on their own schedule, reducing reliance on buses and rides from others. The project also strengthened social ties and sparked local conversations about transportation. One participant said, "The trikes...allowed me to ride to the grocery store without having to wait for the bus."
Jasonville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Jasonville lacked safe sidewalks for older adults to walk and socialize, with no local gyms and uneven routes limiting activity. The Heritage Walkway project added ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, signage and lighting around the downtown Heritage Block. Volunteers painted a colorful crosswalk leading to the community garden. The walkway now connects key destinations and offers a safe space for exercise and gathering. Residents praised the improvements during a community event, and plans include hosting farmers markets and seasonal activities to keep the area vibrant.
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