AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Arthurdale, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: On Arthurdale's historic 23-acre campus, uneven sidewalks and a lack of outdoor amenities made visits difficult for older adults and others seeking safe, accessible spaces. The project replaced a hazardous 75-foot sidewalk and added benches, trash bins, a dog waste station and a bike rack. New landscaping to beautify the grounds was also created. These improvements have made the site safer and more inviting, encouraging residents to use it for recreation and events. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and plans are underway for expanded sidewalks and new programs for older adults.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Chickasha, OK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: As part of wider efforts to revitalize Chickasha's downtown, the Chickasha Economic Development Council made several streetscape improvements. To increase foot traffic to local businesses, volunteers decorated crosswalks with pavement art and created a mural. They also installed benches and bike tracks. The branding effort is meant to redefine the town's commercial district and connect it with the surrounding neighborhoods. Project organizers hope to build on the improvements in the future, adding additional public art and pedestrian infrastructure.
New Ulm, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Downtown Action Team partnered with Minnesota Main Street to encourage residents of all ages to come downtown, walk down main street and learn about local history. To encourage socializing, they rearranged underutilized benches downtown, grouping some with new outdoor tables to create places for residents to sit and linger. Organizers installed plaques featuring photos and a brief narrative on the benches. Additionally, they adorned tabled with imagery and text explaining New Ulm's history.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Washington, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: At a historic arts site outdoor seating will be added as well as ADA-friendly furniture and a level brick patio for programs. The improved setting will make it easier for older adults to gather, create art and attend free events.
Beaufort County, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital Connections Other
Description: The commission will help older adults find affordable internet plans and apply for federal discounts, such as the Lifeline program. Staff will work one-on-one with residents to reduce costs and improve internet access in rural communities.
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 North Carolina State Office
5511 Capital Center Drive
Suite 400
Raleigh, NC 27606
United States