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Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
Older adults with disabilities in Southern Arizona faced barriers to exercise and recreation, limiting opportunities for health and social connection. To address this, the organization launched the Eduardo Aguirre Adaptive Cycling Center, installing storage containers and creating a wheelchair-accessible site with a fleet of adaptive bikes. More than 300 people, including 200 age 50-plus, have used the center for rides and training. Participants report renewed confidence and joy. One woman, age 72, said she now feels supported and can ride with friends again.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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St. George, UT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Cyclists, including many older adults, lacked convenient repair options on popular trails, leaving riders stranded and discouraging outdoor activity. The alliance installed four Fix-it stations equipped with tools and air pumps across trails in four cities near local communities, with local governments assisting in placement. These stations provide peace of mind, promote safe cycling and strengthen collaboration with city leaders. One visitor said the station made it easy to inflate tires and adjust a seat without a trip to the gas station, underscoring its value for active transportation.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Jacksonville, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To incentivize business development along Jacksonville's Main Street, the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council worked to improve the appearance of area. They installed trash receptacles, bike racks and bike maintenance stations. The improvements keep the streets clear of litter, give visitors with a safe place to lock their bikes and provide a convenient place to repair bike and wheelchair tires. Organizers say they hope the improvements set the stage for this historic community's continued popularity.
Cleveland, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Cleveland's Department of Aging and Bike Cleveland partnered to create opportunities for older adults to explore alternative forms of transportation and recreational activity. They created Silver Spokes, a free cycling program for older adults. Bike Cleveland purchased four age-friendly bikes, as well as bicycle lights and helmets. Additionally, they hosted sessions throughout the city to teach older adults safety rules of the road. They also offered short, guided rides.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Tucson, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Housing Design Competitions
Description: A middle housing design competition will expand the city library of housing plans. The effort will increase access to smaller, age-friendly housing options.
Tucson, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Lifelong housing and accessibility
Description: Like many communities, Tucson has struggled to meet the needs of older adults who want to age in place but lack the resources to stay in their homes. To address this, Tucson created a formalized home sharing program through a new organization, Tucson Home Sharing Inc. The organization has hired staff, formed relationships with county leaders, conducted public meetings, created promotional materials and built an online presence -- all with the goal of connecting older adults with younger roommates. The housemates can help with meal preparation, shopping, transportation, small home repair tasks and pet care. In exchange, they receive decreased or no rent. Organizers hope this decreases social isolation and increases the supply of the affordable housing within the community, enabling older adults to remain in their neighborhoods.
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