Cromwell, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will renovate two parks to improve accessibility and enjoyment for all residents, especially veterans and those age 50 or over. Upgrades include new benches, accessible walkways, and plantings.

New Orleans, LA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: This project will transform an unused lot into an orchard and social community space with fruit trees, benches, bike racks, and accessible walkways.

Monroe, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: To give people an outdoor space to socialize in the heart of downtown, the City of Monroe transformed its visitor center's concrete patio into a new mini-park. The City brightened up the area by adding planters, seating, outdoor games and a mural painted by local youth. The City then unveiled the new space during the local fall festival. Additionally, project organizers made enhancements to the existing hammock park located next to the visitor's center. The site offers visitors a spot to relax in one of several hammocks. To accommodate more foot traffic, the City added bench swings and pergolas for shade. Inspired by the visitor center improvements, nearby businesses put out their own planters by their storefronts. Project organizers say the upgrades helped lift the spirits of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.