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Columbus, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Long waits at Columbus's main bus station were uncomfortable for older adults and others. METRA installed four swing benches in two courtyard locations, along with protective mulch beds and curbs for safety. Riders now have a soothing, shaded space to relax while waiting for buses, and the project sparked interest in adding similar amenities citywide. The benches face a greenspace courtyard, creating a more livable transit hub. A leader mentioned that now patrons are enjoying their time waiting for the bus.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wautoma, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: This project will install a high-visibility flashing crosswalk at a busy highway intersection. The new crossing will improve safety and independence for older adults accessing services and community destinations.
Springfield, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: A lack of benches represented a barrier to older adults using Springfield's public transit system. To make waiting for the bus a more comfortable experience, the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority worked with the local parks and public works departments to install ten benches throughout the city. The Authority engaged residents to inform each bench's aesthetics and placement. They tailored the amenities based on each location's historical and design context. In Court Square -- a neighborhood dating to 1636 -- they installed Victorian-style benches. Elsewhere, they chose a more modern look. Organizers hope the new seating encourages people of all ages and abilities to use public transportation.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Fort Collins, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: HomeFit Modifications
Description: The Institute focused on a common challenge facing older adults who want to remain in their homes: knowing which design features truly support safety, accessibility and long-term independence. Builders and homeowners often lack practical guidance to apply aging-in-place principles with confidence. The project produced and piloted a Resident Guide that explains these features in clear, usable terms, tested with a homeowner living in a certified Lifelong Home. The guide helped residents better understand their home and nearby services while also serving as a replicable tool for housing professionals. One homeowner said the guide was "super helpful so I don't have to do all the research myself." The work increased awareness of age-friendly housing design, informed future pilot projects and strengthened partnerships that can influence how homes are designed and finished in the years ahead.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Fort Collins, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Housing Design Competitions
Description: A design challenge will produce build-ready, age-friendly ADU plans for public use. The plans will guide adaptable housing for older residents.
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