Portland, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Trails

Description: This project upgraded the Canco Woods trail, making it the first wheelchair-accessible forested trail in Portland. Volunteers widened the trail and smoothed and hardened its surface. They also replaced a narrow footbridge, installed two benches and added signs announcing the trail's accessibility. Inspiration for the project came after conversations with residents about low usage of local trails. These discussions focused on accessibility needs for people who used wheelchairs, walkers, canes and strollers. Now residents who had never visited the trail before are enjoying its pond, wetlands and pine groves.

Stafford, CT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Trails

Description: The Citizen's Advisory Committee partnered with the Town of Stafford to increase recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. To do this, they created the River Walk Trail within Hyde Park. Volunteers worked to construct the trail, excavating the route, installing a fabric barrier and covering it with aggregate stone. The River Walk runs along the Middle River, carrying visitors between Stafford's lively shopping center, past Hyde Park and into nature. This is really about...building a sense of community, said Donna Wright, a member of the Stafford Citizen's Advisory Committee.

Blue Hill, ME

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Trails

Description: This project set out to create age-friendly trails in Blue Hill. Efforts included constructing an accessible walking path and installing benches along it to give older adults and people with mobility challenges a place to rest. Part of the town's larger Connectivity Plan, organizers hoped the trails would encourage intergenerational activities and give residents opportunities for physical activity. The route runs through Blue Hill's downtown, allowing people to walk to local amenities and shops.