AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Town of Abingdon (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Public or private transit access
└ Public or private transit access
Older adults struggled to access the Coomes Recreation Center because accessible parking was 340 feet from the entrance and few knew how to use local transit. The project moved seven accessible spaces closer to the door, added ADA upgrades and clear signage, and worked with the local public transit provider to make the center a regular bus stop. It also produced educational videos and held training sessions to teach people how to navigate public transit. These changes improved safety and independence. One participant said closer parking now lets him drive himself to therapy, a shift that underscores the project's impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Denver, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults in Denver struggle with transportation and resource navigation, limiting independence and increasing isolation. DRMAC addressed this by expanding its Getting There Travel Training program, offering bilingual sessions and guided bus trips to teach trip planning, ticketing and mobility apps. Surveys showed that many participants felt more confident using public transit. The effort strengthened trust in marginalized communities and improved access to daily needs. One participant said that as a result of the help provided by the program, he is excited to now be able to attend spirit-lifting activities.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Miami, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Older adults in Miami-Dade faced barriers to using public transit and on-demand ride-hailing services, limiting mobility and social engagement. Transit Alliance launched My Transit My City, hosting workshops and tech training to teach participants how to navigate the redesigned bus system and use free ride-hailing apps. Outreach included flyers, helplines and pop-up events, and older adults enrolled in the Golden Passport program for fare-free rides. One participant said, "For those who are in their latter years, something new is always a bit frightening, but once they try it... they...like it," reflecting restored confidence.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
St. Louis, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: In St. Louis, bus stops often lacked safety and accessibility, limiting mobility for older adults and residents without cars. To address this, Citizens for Modern Transit transformed a neglected stop in Soulard, where many residents are age 50-plus, into a welcoming space. The redesign added a shelter with solar lighting, benches with armrests, ADA-compliant walkways, landscaping and wayfinding. In addition, new sidewalks and ramps were added to improve access. The project boosted safety and visibility, fostered community ownership and set the stage for similar upgrades citywide. One resident said, "Adding community space where people can meet and talk comfortably will be so great."
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Richlands, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Richlands had few accessible parks, leaving older adults and people with disabilities without safe spaces for fitness or social connection. The "Fit for Life" project added wheelchair-accessible swings, air walkers and benches to an underused park, while volunteers brightened the space with colorful features. Now, older adults can exercise, socialize and join community outings in a park designed for everyone. "I had the best day," said one visitor, capturing the joy and renewed sense of belonging this project brings. Plans for similar parks in other communities are already underway.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Jenkins, KY
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Cracked sidewalks along Jenkins' main corridor made trips to the library, pharmacy and city hall risky for older adults in nearby housing. Appalshop repaired walkways and added wheelchair ramps, restoring safe access to essential services. A striking Luna Moth mural now anchors the corridor, symbolizing resilience after the 2022 flood and offering a space for reflection. Residents say the upgrades let them walk with confidence and reconnect socially, while the improvements set the stage for future projects like the planned Tanglewood Trail.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Virginia State Office
901 E Byrd Street
Suite 1005
Richmond, VA 23219
United States