Richmond, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Richmond's Main Street offered no seating, making uphill walks difficult for older adults and limiting social interaction. After preparing the site, Lifelong Richmond installed seven benches with volunteer support, creating safe resting spots near shops and the library. The benches quickly became gathering places for errands and events, reducing isolation and encouraging outdoor activity. Residents praised the change during the town's holiday celebration, and officials plan to add more benches to expand access.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Harrodsburg, KY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: As the City of Harrodsburg approaches its 250th anniversary, Campbellsville University's Conover Education Center surveyed residents about their preferences for neighborhood beautification. In response to their feedback, the Center made streetscaping improvements to Broadway Street. The organization installed commemorative signs at both end of the street, which identify the road as Kentucky's oldest. The Center also added solar lighting, four native shade trees and concrete planters showcasing holly bushes. The new amenities represent improvements to an area which hosts a local festival. Project organizers say the effort also gave longtime residents the chance to engage with local leaders and share their stories and history.

Springfield, MO

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: In the 1980s, many businesses moved out of Springfield's downtown. But in recent years, a new generation of entrepreneurs, artists and gig workers have begun repopulating the city's main commercial district. In light of the area's new vibrancy, the Commercial Street Community Improvement District is working to market the area and tell its story. The CID created a series of parklets with outdoor seating to give visitors a space to socialize and relax. They also commissioned a local artist to create a mural, using community feedback to inform the final design. The mural fits within a larger street art project. CID organizers say they hope these improvements will help the community develop a renewed sense of place.