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Dunellen, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Trails
Description: To make the half-mile trail in Columbia Park more accessible, the Borough of Dunellen installed 12 ADA-compliant benches. Volunteers added mulch around each bench and planted trees, shrubs and pollinator-friendly vegetation, with plaques identifying each plant. They also painted a footbridge connecting the part to a residential neighborhood. The project engaged Dunellen's mayor and Borough Council, along with the Dunellen Shade Tree Commission, the parks and recreation and public works departments, the Dunellen Arts and Culture Commission, the Dunellen Senior Club, the local football team and the Dunellen Municipal Alliance. Since installation, the Borough has seen a 44 percent uptick in trails users, as well as a 50 percent increase in older adults visiting the trail.
Grafton, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project enhanced an unofficial walking trail by installing additional benches and directional signage to make it safer and more accessible for residents.
Colorado Springs, CO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Trails
Description: A walk audit showed people felt unsafe using Colorado Springs' Sand Creek Trail, because the route was dark and uncared for. This project set out to beautify the trail and make the walking route feel safer. Located in the Southeast neighborhood, the route connects the local YMCA, library, school and important services. Improvements included adding lighting beneath a bridge on the route, as well as adding accessible benches. The organization also planned two community cleanup events, as well as a 5k run and a walking group for older adults. Organizers hope the trail upgrades increase walkability, as well as foster a sense of community pride.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Bethel, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Trails
Description: Many amenities in Bethel are only accessible by car. To encourage active transportation instead, the Town created a path for walking, biking and cross-country skiing. The multiuse trail runs from the town's elementary school to the town's new outdoor recreation area. Organizers hope the new path helps residents reach several upgraded recreational facilities nearby, including a new pool house and skate park. Spurred by the pathway's popularity, the Town is exploring ways to construct connector pathways to expand the trail network. By encouraging people to walk, organizers say the multiuse path will support Bethels economy, connecting pedestrians to local businesses.
Randolph, VT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: To give residents the opportunity to express themselves and connect with each other, Sunrise Rotary Club installed outdoor musical instruments near the town's recreational field. The new Harmony Park features chimes, drums, a xylophone, Imbarimbas and a harp. The Club also added benches to the space, along with a welcome sign informing visitors about the instruments.
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