Roundup, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The large public space in the Roundup's downtown lacked accessible seating. As part of its historic preservation and economic development work, Roundup Community Partners added picnic tables and benches to the plaza. The new seating is designed to be accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. The plaza sits on the town's Main Street and project organizers hope the seating helps incentivize residents and visitors to shop and eat downtown. "Thanks to our local leaders and AARP, Roundup's Welcome Plaza is a dynamic hub for the community that increases local commerce, strengthens local pride, and broadens awareness of Roundup's history," Roundup Mayor Sandra Jones said of the project.

Albuquerque, NM

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: The weekly La Familia Growers Market in the Dolores Huerta Gateway Park provides South Valley residents with locally grown produce. To support the market's role as a culturally significant gathering space, project organizers purchased tables, chairs, a storage shed and cafe-style lights. They also procured materials to construct a horno -- a traditional outdoor oven made of adobe. Since then, the market has hosted free weekly musical performances and traditional cooking workshops, as well as the La Familia Growers Market Harvest Festival, attended by more than 500 people. In addition, project organizers conducted interviews with older community members - part of an oral history project.

Mount Airy, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Market Street lacked accessible seating and amenities, limiting its appeal for older adults and reducing opportunities for social interaction. The city installed picnic tables, two fully accessible benches, bike racks, recycling containers and decorative lighting to create a welcoming plaza. These upgrades encourage outdoor dining, leisure and mobility for people of all ages. Residents and business owners praised the changes for making the area more inviting. The city plans to promote the space for festivals and events, ensuring continued use and intergenerational appeal.

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