Ephraim, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: As part of community-wide efforts to improve parks and expand outdoor recreation opportunities, the City of Ephraim made improvements to an underused park. To create an accessible, inclusive space, the City purchased outdoor games for Pioneer Park. The games include concrete foosball and ping pong tables, a cornhole set and a ladder toss. Additionally, the City installed a table and seating in the space. Because the park is located in Ephraim's central business district, organizers hope the upgrades boost economic development in the area. Because many residents live below the poverty line, the improved park offers an important free recreation option. In the future, the City plans to construct accessible restroom facilities onsite.

West St. Paul, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The city will host a series of intergenerational events meant to revive an underused public park. The events, including a movie in the park, community meal and crosswalk painting, will inform future park system improvements.

Highmore, SD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The project will rebuild a community swimming pool and make it more accessible for older adults and people with disabilities by adding features such as zero-depth entry, an ADA-compliant lift and in-pool seating.