AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
See More Projects Like This One
Charlotte, NC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: Sustain Charlotte hoped to build enthusiasm for the concept of ten-minute neighborhoods -- places where people can meet their daily needs without needing to own a car. Based on input from residents of Charlotte's North End, the organization designed and installed 86 wayfinding signs. Each displays a QR code, which visitors can scan with their smartphones to view a map of neighborhood amenities, including parks and recreation centers, schools and public transportation. Following this project, Sustain Charlotte has continued its relationship with North End residents. The North End Community Coalition now serves on the steering committee for the Charlotte Regional Transportation Coalition, which Sustain Charlotte started in 2020. That coalition advocates for equity-centered transportation improvements, which include pedestrian and bike infrastructure. Since then, the City has increased its budget for transportation projects to make biking and walking safer.
Greendale, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: After gathering feedback from focus groups with residents, the Greendale Health Department installed directional signs and benches along the village's walking trails. A number of local organizations participated, including the Girls Scouts and students from the local school district. With help from the Greendale Women's Club, they also created and distributed maps of the trails. Project organizers say the effort allowed for community engagement and the new benches, signs and map help residents and visitors better utilize the community's trails.
Red Bank, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Improved wayfinding
Description: Officials with the Borough of Red Bank hoped to encourage residents and visitors to walk. To do this, the Borough launched Destination Red Bank, an initiative to add wayfinding signage to local streets. The Borough installed decals to the sidewalk, each displaying a QR code. When passersby scan the code with their smartphones, they can access information about local attractions, including directions to reach them by foot. Additionally, the Borough created a parklet -- a mini-part that sits in the footprint of a parking space. They outfitted the downtown gathering space with a picnic table and native plants to give pedestrians and cyclists a place to rest. Project organizers say they will continue to look for innovative ways to make Red Bank more walkable in the future.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Belchertown, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This senior center will install benches along a new paved walkway located near an assisted living facility and a school. The seating will enable older adults with physical or cognitive challenges to take walks.
Amherst, MA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will add seating, lighting, and greenery to create a safer, more accessible, and inviting plaza. This revitalized area near senior housing and a community center will foster social connections for older adults.
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 Massachusetts State Office
One Beacon Street
Suite 2301
Boston, MA 02108
United States