Lake City, MN

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions

Description: Lake City, home to one of Minnesota's oldest populations, faced a shortage of affordable housing and options for aging in place. Although ADUs were allowed, few residents pursued them due to lack of awareness and design access. The Port Authority launched an education campaign with informational sessions, brochures and a dedicated webpage. They partnered with housing advocates to provide free pre-reviewed ADU designs, including above-garage options. Interest surged, with residents contacting city planners and realtors seeking guidance.

Altoona, WI

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions

Description: Residents seeking smaller, more affordable homes had few options because no accessory dwelling units were being built, and many people were unsure how ADUs worked or why they mattered. To address this, the city held an open house where designers pitched ADU concepts, recorded the presentations and shared them online. A new website explained ADUs and offered clear guidance on their use. The event produced several ready-to-use designs and began generating local interest. One presenter described how an ADU had once helped her shelter a friend, saying it "literally saved her," highlighting how these small homes can support people with changing needs.

Salt Lake City, UT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions

Description: Salt Lake City's housing shortage left many residents struggling to find affordable options. To highlight Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a practical solution, the group hosted a tour of three ADUs for over 70 attendees and developed a digital map showing where ADUs could be built. They also worked with city leaders to streamline approvals through a pre-authorized design program and secured funding for an ADU loan initiative. Policy changes passed in April 2024 eased construction barriers and spurred permit requests, with about 150 new ADUs expected in five years-creating more housing choices for older adults and families.