Grafton, WV

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Trails

Description: Grafton's Three Bridges Loop lacked safe sidewalks and resting spots, forcing walkers-especially older adults-to navigate muddy shoulders or streets. The city installed two benches and directional signage along the route and celebrated the improvements with a community event. These additions, paired with a new sidewalk and lighting, gave residents a safer, more accessible walking path. Older adults in assisted housing can now walk to a grocery store, and residents praised the project as "a beautiful addition" to the area.

Millinocket, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Trails

Description: The project addressed the need for a safe, comfortable place where older adults and other residents could gather. This was especially warrented since an important community trail lacked lighting and limited opportunities for regular activity and connection. The project transformed an underused room into a flexible space with new seating, lighting and tables. This created a warm setting for conversation, crafting and small group activities. The renewed room strengthened social ties and offered older adults a reliable and accessible place to reduce isolation and engage with others. Volunteers and patrons said they looked forward to using the space, and individuals with disabilities noted that its accessibility will help them participate more easily in group activities.

Dunellen, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Trails

Description: To make the half-mile trail in Columbia Park more accessible, the Borough of Dunellen installed 12 ADA-compliant benches. Volunteers added mulch around each bench and planted trees, shrubs and pollinator-friendly vegetation, with plaques identifying each plant. They also painted a footbridge connecting the part to a residential neighborhood. The project engaged Dunellen's mayor and Borough Council, along with the Dunellen Shade Tree Commission, the parks and recreation and public works departments, the Dunellen Arts and Culture Commission, the Dunellen Senior Club, the local football team and the Dunellen Municipal Alliance. Since installation, the Borough has seen a 44 percent uptick in trails users, as well as a 50 percent increase in older adults visiting the trail.