AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Hazen, ND
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Older adults and people with mobility challenges could not access the library's basement meeting rooms, limiting participation in art classes and community events. The project installed three chairlifts on two stairwells, creating safe, reliable access and plans to add a wheelchair for convenience. These improvements ensure long-term accessibility for older adults and people with disabilities. "The chairlifts will ensure that our art group will be able to continue to use the room we rent downstairs... We are very excited," said a participant.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Hastings, MI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Older adults and visitors using mobility devices often waited outside historic buildings because portable ramps were impractical during events. To improve access, the park installed an ADA-compliant sidewalk linking five buildings and hosted a ribbon-cutting with volunteers assisting in landscaping. The change replaced temporary ramps with permanent access and sparked momentum for additional projects, including a village-wide walking system. One retired teacher said, "It was a joy to be able to tour with the Commission on Aging. The ramps were wonderful."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Unionville, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: An aging fishing pier will be replaced with a new accessible boardwalk and viewing platform. The upgrade will restore safe river access for visitors with mobility needs.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Winfield, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: People crossing a busy main street faced safety risks due to low visibility and unclear right-of-way. That uncertainty made everyday trips stressful, especially for older adults who prefer predictable crossings. The City of Winfield installed user-activated rapid flashing beacons at key locations, pairing bright lights with marked crosswalks so drivers see people sooner and yield more consistently. The upgrades create clearer, more comfortable crossings and reduce conflict between vehicles and pedestrians. Early results include stronger driver attention and higher confidence among people walking. "Since the installation, we have seen a noticeable shift in how drivers approach our crosswalks," said the city manager. The success has already prompted plans to expand similar treatments at additional sites, reinforcing a longer-term shift toward safer walking conditions for residents who rely on these crossings.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Winfield, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: The program will purchase modular ramps that volunteers can install quickly at individual homes. These can be quickly deployed following hospital discharge and allow residents to remain at home while long-term plans are arranged.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Oklahoma State Office
126 N Bryant Avenue
Edmond (Oklahoma City), OK 73034
United States