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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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Milton, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Many older adults lacked reliable transportation to medical appointments, creating delays in care and added stress for people who could not drive. The project formed a nursing-transportation partnership that offered an on-demand ride option managed through a virtual platform and supported by a phone line for scheduling. Volunteers trained as care coordinators helped residents request rides, and vouchers were set aside for medical and dental trips. The effort raised awareness about gaps in transportation and prompted plans to build a sustainable model that expands travel training and partnerships. One resident said, "It's comforting to know there are people out there who can be called upon in times of need," reflecting how the service eased concerns about accessing care.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Fort Collins, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: To help older residents navigate the region without needing to drive themselves, the PAFC held a full-day transit training on how to use the regional, fixed-route bus service connecting the Larimer County communities of Fort Collins and Loveland to downtown Denver. Project organizers recruited older adults to fill a bus for a daytrip to Denver. Participants learned how to read bus route maps and schedules, pay fares and make transfers. Videographers were on hand to film the experience, providing clips for educational videos. After the experience, all participants reported being more at ease using public transit. Organizers also used feedback from participants to advocate for additional transit service and stops Since the bus trip, PAFC has continued to partner on travel trainings, including adding offerings in Spanish.
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.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Springfield, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Engaging people in transportation options/safety
Description: Springfield faced nine pedestrian fatalities in 2021, disproportionately affecting older adults, as streets like State Street lacked crosswalks and lighting. WalkBoston launched the Walk Audit Academy to train residents and local groups to identify hazards and advocate for safer streets. Participants completed five audits, produced municipal recommendations and connected with decision-makers during a community report-out. The program built lasting advocacy in the community. One older adult flagged an unlit park path, saying the lack of lighting created hazardous conditions, underscoring the urgency for change.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
South Hadley, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older volunteers will be trained as peer technology mentors to expand the number of hours for one-on-one tech help. Faster support will help residents use phones, tablets and computers with greater confidence and fewer delays.
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