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Three Rivers Land Trust (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
Goat Hill's sweeping views were out of reach for many due to steep terrain and a lack of accessible trails. The Land Trust added cedar benches, signage and kiosks along the newly built trail. This made it easier for older adults and people with mobility challenges to enjoy the climb. Outreach events promoted the trail's inclusive design, and it's now featured in a forthcoming book on accessible trails. "It's a beautiful place for families of all physical abilities to explore and enjoy," said one visitor, underscoring its role in inspiring future projects.
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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Scarborough, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: Scarborough lacked a safe, walkable space where older adults could exercise and connect. To make its municipal campus more inviting, the library installed five benches along the Green Trail, including one with wheelchair access. They also added plaques with QR codes linking to an interactive map and walking group details. A new webpage highlights eco-friendly features and schedules for group walks. These upgrades have encouraged residents to join walks, rest comfortably and socialize. This has sparked community interest in volunteer-led programs and plans for additional benches.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Cascade, ID
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Trails
Description: Older residents wanted more places to rest along the Strand Trail, a two-mile route central to Cascade's age-friendly plan. Without benches, many avoided longer walks, limiting exercise and social connection. The city installed five durable benches on recycled asphalt bases, creating safe, year-round resting spots. Volunteers helped with installation and outreach to promote use. The benches encourage older adults to walk farther and enjoy birdwatching and conversations along the river corridor. One regular user said the benches mean she can walk farther because "there are now places to rest along the way."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
East Bridgewater, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Trails
Description: Healthy East Bridgewater -- a community coalition convened by the Old Colony YMCA -- sought to improve connectivity and accessibility along the Hiking Viking Trail. Established in 2015, the trail features a 5-mile walking loop linking Bridgewater's town hall to the YMCA and other locations. Project organizers installed five new benches along the pathway, added signage to help people find their way and installed boardwalks to level out a portion of the walkway. To welcome visitors, they then hosted an October Pumpkin Walk, which drew about 400 participants. Since completing the improvements, organizers say they've seen increased community interest in the trail and its amenities.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Milton, NH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: The Town of Milton set out to understand why sidewalks in its most connected area were difficult for older adults to navigate and how defects limited safe travel to nearby destinations. A walk audit allowed volunteers to document obstacles and share firsthand how uneven routes affected both younger and older participants. The findings produced detailed maps and a list of recommendations that will shape investment in curb ramps, crossings and sidewalks. The results will guide capital planning for years and help the town respond to long standing concerns about walkability. Volunteers said the audit made them more aware of how challenging the routes were and why safer paths matter.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Berwick, ME
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Innovative home maintenance, repair and support services
Description: Older residents in Berwick faced challenges staying independent without access to adaptive tools. The committee launched a Handy Helper Tool Collection with more than 55 items-such as jar openers, grab bars and ergonomic garden tools-available for borrowing at the library. A shelving unit and wheeled bag allowed volunteers to bring the collection to farmers markets and town events. One visitor said that she would look into starting a similar program in her town. The program helps residents remain in their homes longer and raises awareness of practical solutions for aging in place.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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