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Newport, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: Disabled veterans and older adults who could no longer cycle faced isolation and limited access to outdoor recreation. Bike Newport launched its Cycling Without Age program, offering scenic trishaw rides piloted by trained volunteers. Over 90 residents participated in 12 excursions, enjoying companionship, nature and cross-generational conversations. The program also raised visibility through parades and community events, inspiring future expansion. One participant shared, "There was a great vibe around Atria all day after this activity... residents are looking forward to this every Tuesday morning now".
Shawnee Mission, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: To expand access to cycling, this project expanded the BikeWalkKC bikeshare program. Parks and Recreation Foundation of Johnson County set out to install bikeshare stations in four parks, including a new park located near a residential area with a senior living community. The stations serve four municipalities -- Olathe, Prairie Village, Lenexa, Shawnee and Overland Park. To measure the bikeshare program's popularity, each station uses smart technology to track each bike's location, how frequently it is checked out, the length of each checkout and who used it. Organizers plan to specifically market the service to older adults, who represent a growing share of Johnson County's population.
Princeton, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Micromobility enhancements/management
Description: Limited transportation choices left older adults and low-income residents with few options to stay active and connected. To address this, the city introduced an electric-assist surrey bike that accommodates multiple riders, making cycling easier for those with mobility challenges. The bike debuted at a Halloween event, where older adults and families tried it out and expressed excitement for summer rentals. This initiative promotes physical activity and social engagement while laying the groundwork for a community bike program that expands affordable transportation access.
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Loogootee, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public art installations
Description: As part of efforts to create a new, multi-use community space, the Loogootee Beautification Committee commissioned a local artist to create a massive mural downtown. Community members worked with the artist to plan the artwork, which they then installed on the side of an abandoned building on Loogootee's main square. Work occurred as the City prepared to renovate the building and revitalize the area. In the future, the City hopes to hold its annual festival at the site of the mural. Project organizers also report the project helped gather community feedback, which will inform future placemaking projects.
Jasonville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Jasonville lacked safe sidewalks for older adults to walk and socialize, with no local gyms and uneven routes limiting activity. The Heritage Walkway project added ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, signage and lighting around the downtown Heritage Block. Volunteers painted a colorful crosswalk leading to the community garden. The walkway now connects key destinations and offers a safe space for exercise and gathering. Residents praised the improvements during a community event, and plans include hosting farmers markets and seasonal activities to keep the area vibrant.
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