New Bedford, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Long stretches of Buttonwood Park's walkway lacked seating, making walks difficult for older adults and discouraged activity. Friends of Buttonwood Park installed eight benches along the southern half of the park, added wheelchair-accessible slab extensions and created a brochure showing bench locations. The additions make walking easier and more enjoyable, promoting health and social interaction. Residents say the benches let them rest, relax and stay active in the park.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Hillsboro, KS

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The city will build five accessible outdoor pickleball courts with seating and lighting. These courts will offer a safe place for exercise, social play and shared recreation for people of all ages.

Ravenna, NE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Two outdoor pickleball courts will be constructed at the park, with concrete surfaces, fencing and permanent nets. The project will give residents a safer place to play and gather.