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Augusta, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Augusta's limited transit options leave older adults with few safe ways to reach essential services. Move Augusta addressed this by hosting a Senior Bicycle Safety Rodeo and training 23 participants in bike and pedestrian safety. It donated 10 three-wheeled tricycles with helmets and locks to adult centers and other community facilities. The event connected 20 local agencies and volunteers to support older adults and sparked plans for a ride-share program. "Seeing the younger volunteers interact with the older participants was a blessing and a joy to watch," said an organizer. These efforts are helping older residents travel safely for groceries, medical appointments and recreation.

Tucson, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: 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.

Lowell, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Older adults in Lowell often struggle with transportation costs, limiting access to essentials and social activities. To address this, Bike Connector hosted two bike rodeos at the local Senior Center. They gave 53 participants free bikes, helmets, locks, lights, plus safety instruction and practice. Ten new riders learned to cycle, and repair clinics taught maintenance skills to 50 attendees. According to the Center's program director, bike ridership has grown among low-income participants, helping them reach services and stay active. The group plans annual rodeos and multilingual safety guides to sustain momentum.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Cedar City, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Downtown Cedar City lacked seating and bike facilities, limiting access and discouraging gathering. The project installed four benches, ADA-compliant picnic tables at the farmers market and bike racks in high-traffic areas. These improvements created comfortable resting spots and secure bike parking. More people have been drawn to events and businesses, and the upgrades have encouraged active transportation and strengthened the area's role as a cultural hub. Residents praised the improvements, noting the heavy-duty benches and tables make it easier to stay and enjoy entertainment.

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