San Diego, CA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Fairmount Avenue is a busy corridor lined with housing for older adults and other essential services, where people using mobility devices face daily safety risks. Bike San Diego responded by leading bike and walk audits with residents who live and travel the route, capturing firsthand details about crossing times, curb access and confusing signage. Findings were translated into specific recommendations and shared with teams updating long-range city plans. One participant said that he has noticed people with manual wheelchairs often struggled to get to the other side in time. By grounding planning discussions in lived experience, the project increased the chance that future street changes better reflect how older adults actually move through the corridor.

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

Jerseyville, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Jerseyville had no bike infrastructure, leaving older adults without safe routes to reach grocery stores and other essentials. Bike audits revealed critical gaps, from missing bike lanes and traffic-calming measures, to the need for signage and parking. These findings will guide a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, expected to prompt long-term upgrades and safety education. A local cycling advocate said he was excited to see the city begin this effort, calling it an important step toward improving biking and pedestrian access.

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

Pine Bluff, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Cyclists in Pine Bluff faced safety risks from the lack of bike lanes, limiting options for active transportation. To address this, the city held three bike audits in the regional park, engaging older adults to identify hazards and shape plans. The audits set goals for adding bike lanes and created a safe space for residents age 50-plus to ride. Findings will guide funding requests for bike lanes and ramps, and the effort sparked interest in future cycling events. One participant said she hopes for more opportunities to "ride and fellowship," underscoring the project's role in promoting safety and social connection.

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