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Bernardsville, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A small public green space featuring shaded seating and landscaping will be built near the train station and the farmers market. The space will provide adults age 50-plus with a safe place to rest, socialize and access transit and nearby shops.
Spearfish, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: New trails near Spearfish Canyon will be enhanced with benches, rest areas, kiosks and clear signage. Free “Learn to Ride” clinics will invite residents and older adults to enjoy safer, more accessible outdoor activities.
Lynchburg, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To organizers with the Downtown Lynchburg Association, an underused, dead-end street had potential to draw visitors downtown. The Association transformed the space into Art Alley -- a vibrant, outdoor art gallery. To activate the space, volunteers covered the pavement in turquoise, orange, pink and green paint. They also set up string lights overhead to provide illumination. Finally, they created the Spark Joy Gallery by installing panels that display digital artworks. Project organizers say the placemaking effort has since inspired nearby property owners to spruce up their building facades, and the Art Alley has become a must-see for tourists passing through town.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Amherst, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Older adults lacked inclusive, low-impact recreation options, and temporary courts limited year-round play. The county built a permanent bocce court with ADA features, including a hinged entry for mobility aids, and added benches and equipment. A grand opening introduced the court to the community, creating a safe space for social connection and physical activity. The design reduces fall risks and fosters inclusion. One participant using a walker said she was thrilled with the ease of accessing the court, underscoring its role in helping residents stay active and engaged.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Bridgewater, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Two outdoor water bottle fillers with ADA accessible fountains and pet bowls will be installed at a popular town park. These additions will help park users stay hydrated and spend more time outdoors.
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