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Upshur County Public Library (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
└ Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Staff at the Upshur County Public Library hoped to turn an unsafe and unsightly building on the library's campus into a more useful space. To give visitors a space to access free Wi-Fi -- as well as relax, socialize and read -- the library worked to replace the building with an outdoor living room. After tearing down the structure, leveling out the site and seeding new grass, the library outfitted the space with ADA-compliant picnic tables, Adirondack chairs and planter boxes. They also installed outdoor charging stations to help residents access the internet, even while the library is closed. Volunteers with the West Virginia Master Gardeners planted native flowers onsite, and now use the greenspace to host gardening trainings. Organizers say the parklet is an important amenity for residents who lack access to greenspace.
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Kaunakaukai, HI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: This project set up a free, outdoor Wi-Fi hotspot and provided assistance to those trying to connect to the internet. It also offered digital literacy instructions and installed ADA-compliant outdoor furniture.
Muncie, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: Sustainable Muncie Corporation installed internet access points at Madjax, the organization's warehouse, which is home to collaborative workspaces, a design and tinkering lab and a makerspace. Previously, public internet access in Muncie was limited to local libraries and coffeeshops. Now residents of the East Central neighborhood can either sit inside Madjax or access Wi-Fi from outside the facility. Project organizers hope their new outdoor internet access points help bridge the digital divide in the community. In addition, the organization is establishing an ambassador program to provide older adults with peer-to-peer technology support. They say the new internet connection has also helped Sustainable Muncie's Retirees Entrepreneurial Club get off the ground.
Georgetown, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Public spaces improvements to increase high-speed internet availability
Description: This project created a computer lab for use by library patrons. It also functions as a classroom for computer lessons.
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Weston, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Walk Audits
Description: Walk audits will evaluate pedestrian safety conditions along two busy roads connecting a senior center with a commercial area. The commission will share findings at community meetings to advocate for walkability improvements.
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.
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