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.

Kailua-Kona, HI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: People's Advocacy for Trails Hawaii installed three bikeshare stations in Kailua-Kona, which doubled ridership. Additionally, they offered a monthly adult bike safety skills class to older adults, a rapidly growing demographic of cyclists. Not owning a bike was no excuse -- PATH provided bikeshare bikes for anyone interested in the safety classes. The organization also worked with county partners to offer free bikeshare membership for up to 100 constituents of a local community health center.

Powder Springs, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: Downtown lacked infrastructure that encouraged biking, limiting active transportation options for older adults and other residents. The city installed five permanent bike racks in key locations, each designed as public art through a partnership with local artists and schools. These racks make biking more practical and add visual appeal to the town center. The project promotes healthy, car-free travel and strengthens placemaking efforts, sparking community pride and inspiring future art and mobility initiatives.