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Fort Wayne, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Fort Wayne's Wells Street corridor lacked safe crossings and inviting spaces, leaving pedestrians vulnerable. The project improved three crosswalks and activated unused areas with seating, lighting and planters. Volunteers built furniture and hosted events that fostered social connections and safer movement. One organizer mentioned that residents now request more gatherings and using the new furniture and planters, leading to a better sense of community.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Harrisonville, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: City Park's disconnected sidewalks forced pedestrians, including older adults, onto roads, raising safety concerns and limiting access to amenities. The city installed 862 feet of concrete sidewalk, added benches, planted trees and placed signage. This created a continuous path that links park features and an ADA-accessible playground. The improvements make walking safer and encourage physical activity and social interaction. "The new park sidewalk allows me to walk early in the morning without fear of being in the street... I love it!" said one resident, reflecting the project's lasting impact on accessibility and community engagement.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Baltimore, MD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: Organizers with Pigtown Main Street hoped to revitalize the intersection of Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevards. The intersection acts as a gateway to Pigtown, one of Baltimore's most diverse neighborhoods. However, Washington Boulevard is a six-lane divided highway and public spaces along the route have been neglected. To help residents envision street improvements, Pigtown Main Street organized a pop-up event, creating a park at the intersection. Ideas presented included adding curb extensions to help pedestrians cross the street safety, installing bike lanes, reducing the number of travel lanes, displaying public art, creating outdoor seating and eating areas and improving landscaping. Visitors to the pop-up were invited to share their feedback. Organizers set up Dot Boards, which allowed people to place a dot by the photos of activities they'd like to see more of. The top five choices: live performances, outdoor food, parties, art events and outdoor classes.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Payson, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Door-to-door transportation will be provided for appointments, errands and daily needs. The service will support independence and reduce isolation.
Camp Verde, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: The Town of Camp Verde's Parks & Recreation Division thought the community's outdoor pool had potential as an event and education space. To achieve their vision, volunteers laid concrete pavers, installed shade structures and added picnic tables. They also constructed a new fence to the patio. The improvements allowed the Town to increase recreational programming onsite, including exercise classes and a summer camp. Additionally, families can lease the space for parties and other gatherings.
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