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Metropolitan Area Planning Council (2017) Print
2017 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
This community engagement initiative sought to identify solutions to allow older adults and people with mobility issues to use off-road trails in Natick. Project organizers met with town staff ahead of two focus groups with older adults, who shared their experiences with local trails. Additionally, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council created an online survey to collect more feedback. Older adults said their main concerns were access to bathrooms, personal safety, clear signage, availability of parking near trailheads, even walking surfaces and benches to sit on. MAPC then held a placemaking event at the Natick Community-Senior Center. Attendees could walk along a prototype trail with photos of planned upgrades and hear from MAPC staff. Participants also had a chance to share their personal stories about the things they've discovered while hiking. The result was a list of practical, low-cost action items the town can use to improve Natick's pathways.
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See More Projects Like This One
Philadelphia, PA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Trails
Description: Cobbs Creek Park's lack of signage and programming left older adults disconnected from nature. The council installed two large kiosks with maps, safety tips and QR codes for resources, and hosted senior-focused events like Jazz on the Creek and a driving safety course. These efforts boosted confidence to explore the park and fostered social connections. The project set the stage for expanded signage and dedicated senior programming to make the park more welcoming and accessible.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Parkin, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Trails
Description: Parkin Central Park will gain a marked walking loop with benches, distance markers and seating stations. These features will support regular walking by offering rest points and clear progress cues for older adults.
Kansas City, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Trails
Description: The WeAreMarlborough project installed 16 bike racks and two benches along the Greealk, a new two-mile walking path that winds through Marlborough. The pathway connects residents to three new city parks, as well as rapid transit lines. To meet residents' needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Marlborough Community Coalition also erected temporary two Little Free Food Panty locations along the Greealk, one in a local community garden and the other in a pocket park. In addition, the organization hosted activities, including safe biking workshops, a community Halloween celebration. Project organizers say neighbors requested improved greenspace for years -- new amenities along the Greealk represent steps toward a more healthy, active community.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Boston, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: The Tech Treasures program will expand digital literacy training for low-income older adults. Participants will receive hands-on instruction in basic technology use, online safety and digital communication.
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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