AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
METRA Transit System (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Public or private transit access
└ Public or private transit access
Long waits at Columbus's main bus station were uncomfortable for older adults and others. METRA installed four swing benches in two courtyard locations, along with protective mulch beds and curbs for safety. Riders now have a soothing, shaded space to relax while waiting for buses, and the project sparked interest in adding similar amenities citywide. The benches face a greenspace courtyard, creating a more livable transit hub. A leader mentioned that now patrons are enjoying their time waiting for the bus.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Milton, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Many older adults lacked reliable transportation to medical appointments, creating delays in care and added stress for people who could not drive. The project formed a nursing-transportation partnership that offered an on-demand ride option managed through a virtual platform and supported by a phone line for scheduling. Volunteers trained as care coordinators helped residents request rides, and vouchers were set aside for medical and dental trips. The effort raised awareness about gaps in transportation and prompted plans to build a sustainable model that expands travel training and partnerships. One resident said, "It's comforting to know there are people out there who can be called upon in times of need," reflecting how the service eased concerns about accessing care.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Elsa, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: People using the local bus service in Elsa had no designated bus stop facilities. To catch a bus, residents could stand on the side the highway and wave -- an unsafe situation on the area's busy roads. To make waiting for public transit safer and more comfortable, the City set out to add bus shelters along State Highway 107.
Louisville, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: To provide a safe, comfortable space for older residents who are waiting for transportation, ElderServe set out to install a bus stop shelter near a popular Senior Center. Work involved pouring a new concrete slab for the shelter to level out the site.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Box Springs, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Older adults in West Central Georgia faced heightened risk during severe weather due to limited access to timely alerts and preparedness training. Crown of Life Foundation hosted disaster preparedness workshops, provided kits and helped residents enroll in emergency alert systems. The project also strengthened local warning capacity by installing new tornado sirens and expanding alert registration. Older adults reported greater confidence using their kits and understanding emergency procedures, with some attending multiple sessions. One participant said the combination of sirens, alerts and training made them feel more prepared and connected.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Opelika, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Organizers with Opelika Main Street hoped to draw more visitors downtown. To do this, they activated an underused public space by adding outdoor games. Volunteers installed a giant, colorful chess and checkers set, suitable for people of all ages to enjoy. Organizers say the new game center represents a safe place for residents of all ages to gather.
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 has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Georgia State Office
999 Peachtree Street NE
Suite 1110
Atlanta, GA 30309
United States