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Ocean Springs Pedestrians and Residents for Exercise and Youth Safety (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
└ Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Ocean Springs has an active group of advocates working to make streets safer for pedestrians and bicyclists. However, many intersections remain dangerous, as vehicle speeds can be high during peak commuting times. The Ocean Springs Pedestrians and Residents for Exercise and Youth Safety painted a pavement mural in one of the city's busiest intersections. The artwork is meant to slow traffic by drawing attention to pedestrians crossing the street. OSRPEYS also developed a pocket park nearby, which they equipped with picnic tables, planters, bike racks and native plants. Since its installation, the park has become a gathering space for community members of all ages and community groups host activities onsite.
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See More Projects Like This One
St. Paul, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The city government in St. Paul hoped to enhance walkability through safety improvements at two unmarked pedestrian crossings along Marion Street. To accomplish that, the city created two long-term temporary crosswalks at Ravoux and Fuller Streets. The work included adding pedestrian crosswalk signs, painting high-visibility block-pattern crosswalk markings and installing pedestrian refuge islands and bump-outs. The city also restricted parking near the intersections and installed a temporary radar speed sign along the corridor. The project enabled local government agencies and civic organizations to gather data needed to support permanent crosswalks upgrades in the area. Using the results, the city began its re-envisioning Marion Street as a pedestrian-friendly, multi-modal corridor in 2021.
Spearfish, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: This project improved crosswalks -- as well as directional signage -- in Spearfish. Organizers worked to identify areas frequented by older adults. Then they ensured intersections in those areas had curb cuts, making them more accessible.
Chicago, IL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: This project will install a colorful and artistic Complete Streets demonstration, showcasing short-term street and sidewalk alterations to increase pedestrian safety for residents, especially those aged 50.
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Biloxi, MS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
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