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Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (2018) Print
2018 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Public or private transit access
└ Public or private transit access
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.
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See More Projects Like This One
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.
Milton, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: The project will provide transportation vouchers for older adults with physical limitations or who are unable to drive so that they can utilize an on-demand ride service.
Westport, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: This project established a fixed-route transportation service for older adults, operating one day per week between common shopping, banking and medical destinations in this rural community.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Springfield, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: The grant will fund a walk audit training program to teach residents how to recognize hazardous conditions in their communities and advocate for changes to make streets safer.
Windsor Locks, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: This project will transform an underutilized alley into a downtown community gardening and socializing space that includes garden beds and outdoor seating.
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