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St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: To demonstrate safety improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, Trailnet created a pop-up parklet kit for its Traffic Calming Lending Library, making it available for use around St. Louis. They then installed a parklet at Laclede and Vandeventer Avenues. Occupying what would otherwise be street parking spaces, the elevated platform features seating and greenery. The parklet's positioning shortens the distance needed to cross the street by 11 feet, making crossing easier for pedestrians. Trailnet also added striping to the intersection's crosswalk to improve its visibility. Additionally, the organization added bike and scooter parking nearby. Originally a temporary installation, Trailnet permanently installed a parklet at the intersection in 2020. The result is a safe resting place for cyclists and a community gathering place. Trailnet hopes the completed project will be a blueprint for intersection safety improvements throughout the region.
Gardiner, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: The City of Gardiner hoped to improve accessibility by replacing crumbling sidewalks at the Gardiner Public Library -- and they wanted to ensure the community had a voice in the process. They put together a table display at the library, which featured photos of existing sidewalk issues, as well as examples of alternative sidewalk designs. They then invited library visitors to fill out a short survey with their design suggestions. Additionally, they consulted local older adult groups and held an event at the library. Based on community feedback, they installed 100 feet of new concrete sidewalk with a brick border. Organizers say community engagement resulted in larger conversations about accessibility and walkability throughout Gardiner, resulting in upgrades in a local park.
Surry, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: After a fatal crash on Route 172, Surry installed gateway signs to alert drivers they were entering a busy village where pedestrians share the road. Residents helped choose the design, and the signs now greet motorists with a "Thank You for Driving Safely" message. The effort prompted more speed-limit signs and enforcement, easing fears for older adults who walk along narrow shoulders. Post Office staff noted relief for patrons' safety. One homeowner said, "The new Gateway signs... are slowly renewing my confidence," showing how a simple change restored peace of mind.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Annapolis, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Organizers with Annapolis Arts District wanted to create a safer, more bikeable community. To improve the bikeability of the neighborhood, they added artistic bike racks. Additionally, they installed share the Road signs and painted sharrows on the pavement to warn drivers about cyclists sharing the roadway. Project organizers say the efforts helped restart stalled efforts to complete a bike master plan for Annapolis.
Annapolis, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Developing projects based on residents' priorities
Description: Conflict within families and social circles can weigh heavily on older adults, yet many lack access to affordable mediation. To close this gap, the Center created a bilingual brochure explaining free conflict resolution services and distributed it through schools, courts and community agencies. The effort aims to raise awareness and empower residents to resolve disputes without costly legal action. By reframing conflicts as shared problems, mediation fosters dialogue, strengthens relationships and builds inclusion across the community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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