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Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Hundreds of elementary school students cross busy Lynhaven Avenue each day on their way to school in Richmond's Bellemeade neighborhood. Walk audits and other community engagement efforts have shown speeding and distracted driving are a common issue on the street. To slow down traffic and improve safety, Sports Backers commissioned local artists to create pavement murals at two intersections. Project organizers hope murals catch the attention of motorists, encouraging them to pay attention to the road and slow down.
Newburgh, NY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: As part of Orange County's Complete Streets program, the City of Newburgh staged a pop-up demonstration showcasing street safety improvements on Lake Street. To narrow the distance needed to cross the street and make pedestrians more visible to drivers, project organizers painted bump-outs at intersections. They added temporary barriers around the bump-outs to separate them from street traffic. Decorative planters further protected and beatified the space. Additionally, the City used stencils to paint brightly colored polka dots on the sidewalk surface, creating a sense of fun around the intersection.
Spearfish, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Busy street crossings and unclear signage along Spearfish's recreation path made navigation risky, especially for older adults and people with disabilities. The city addressed these issues by installing large directional signs, painting crosswalks, adding pedestrian alerts and building ADA-compliant ramps. Volunteers helped assemble signs, and a kiosk with a new map now guides users. These upgrades improved safety and accessibility, giving residents confidence to enjoy the path and inspiring additional investments to expand improvements.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Barre, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: Many older adults lacked computers or internet at home, leaving them disconnected and unable to join virtual programs. The project created a computer lab with desktops, printer and accessories, and introduced MySeniorCenter software for activity sign-ups and networking. Training sessions and partnerships supported digital literacy and safe online practices. These upgrades help older adults connect with family, join online classes and engage with other centers nationwide. One participant said learning the system gave her confidence: "I now have a knowledgeable resource when I need help."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Washington County, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: An iconic bus shelter known to Mad River Valley locals as The Snail sat unused and had fallen into disrepair. The Yestermorrow Design/Build School stepped in to rescue the structure, replacing rotting siding and roofing, upgrading structural elements and adding accessibility features, such as handrails. After clearing a space on School grounds, volunteers then moved The Snail four miles down the road. They also planted native vegetation around The Snail. Following these improvements, the spiral-shaped bus shelter is now back in use at a public bus stop.
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