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MassBike (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
Older adults in Worcester faced isolation and lacked confidence in cycling, limiting active transportation options. MassBike launched an intergenerational program with five workshops and five group rides, pairing older adults with youth to build skills and social connections. Sessions covered bike safety and barriers, while rides included themed events like a Halloween ride and a trip to the ballpark. The program strengthened advocacy for safer infrastructure and expanded partnerships for future cycling initiatives. One participant said "It was so nice to see people from all different age groups coming together."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Erath, LA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: COVID-19 pandemic restrictions led to an increase in pedestrian and bicycle activity in Erath, as people sought out safe ways to get around and spend time outdoors. And many residents of the small town do not own cars. For local leaders, the increase in biking and walking represented an opportunity to effect long-term change. Since Erath only had one bike rack, the Town purchased and installed new racks in 16 locations around town to encourage locals to bike to the local park and businesses. Volunteers helped design the racks and coordinate the best places to install them.
Dover, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Cyclists in Dover often lacked a way to fix minor bike issues, discouraging rides and leaving older adults stranded. The city installed three repair stations at Silver Lake Park, Schutte Park and the public library, each equipped with tools and a pump for quick fixes. These stations make cycling safer and more practical, encouraging riders to use park and library routes. It also supported Dover's broader bike-friendly plans to help older adults maintain active lifestyles.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Saratoga Springs, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: The City of Saratoga Springs was working to connect existing trails to its new, 24-mile Saratoga Greenbelt Trail. Ahead of constructing a new trail connection, the City wanted to test proposed streetscape changes meant to accommodate cyclists traveling between the Greenbelt and downtown. The proposal included creating a two-lane cycling path on Henry Street, converting the street from two-way to one-way and dedicating one side to parking. The City conducted a two-week pilot program. Orange cones, temporary pavement striping and a one-foot buffer separated cyclists from street traffic. During the trial, the number of pedestrians using the route increased, and the number of cyclists more than quadrupled. A survey or residents showed general support for the changes. The City ultimately decided to permanently convert Henry Street to one-way to accommodate a two-lane bike path. Project organizers also say the pilot raised awareness of the Greenbelt Trail.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Mattapan, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Older adults and residents with mobility challenges faced hazards and limited access at two Boston community gardens. A collapsed walkway created unsafe conditions, and deteriorated raised beds prevented those with physical limitations from gardening. The Trustees repaired the walkway by filling a sinkhole and installing a wide, level brick path at Southwest Corridor Community Farm. At Savin & Maywood Community Garden, they demolished broken beds and built four new handicapped-accessible raised beds with help from volunteers. Residents expressed gratitude, noting the upgrades made the gardens welcoming for "gardeners of all ages and abilities."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Boston, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To encourage walking, Boston installed benches in Main Street neighborhood districts across the city. Older adults tested and approved the benches and worked with the City to identify the best locations for them. The initiative's guiding principle was that making walking safe and comfortable for older adults creates a better environment for people of all ages. Project organizers report residents were eager to use the new benches. In fact, as Department of Public Works staff were finishing up an installation, a few people were often waiting to take a seat. The benches contribute to vibrant public spaces near businesses and merchants say they appreciate the increased foot traffic. Project organizers say the installations helped develop a city-wide framework for a sustainable bench program, addressing installation and long-term maintenance.
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