Bozeman, MT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Streamline is a zero-fare, fixed route bus system that serves about 1,000 riders daily. Because of its popularity, the Human Resource Development Council -- which runs the service -- determined it needed to redesign Streamline's routes and explore ways to expand. To publicize new routes, the Council launched its Doors to Transit campaign. Volunteers painted 15 large, colorful doors displaying information about the new bus service, which the Council temporarily installed around the region. In addition, project organizers hosted a community event to inform residents about new routes and changes to timetables. To draw people in, participants had the chance to win gift cards redeemable at local businesses. Project organizers say these efforts helped reach potential Streamline riders and prepare existing riders for upcoming bus service changes.

Tallahassee, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Many older adults lacked confidence to use public transit, limiting independence and access to daily needs. The Ride Ready program launched with branded materials, mailed brochures to 1,750 older adults and created an interactive website. It also hosted group trainings, including a Try Transit Tuesday event with field trips. Free bus passes encouraged participation, which surged to 1,150 people in six months. One trainer noted, "People are always so surprised and enthusiastic when they find out StarMetro offers free travel training services," reflecting growing confidence among older riders.

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

Washington, DC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: While Washington, D.C. has a robust public transit system, rider amenities are not consistent throughout the city and the Pennsylvania Avenue East Corridor is particularly underserved. The city's Office of Planning hoped to use creative placemaking techniques to make waiting for the bus safer and more comfortable. Project organizers worked with local artists to design and build an Imagination Bench, which they placed on a well-used bus route. The bench has solar-powered illumination and a QR code on its side directs viewers to information about the bench and local planning efforts. Originally installed near Fort Dupont Park, planning staff intend to feature the brightly colored bench at the city's farmers markets, pop-up shops and other community events.