Metuchen, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: Businesses in Metuchen's downtown struggled during pandemic-related shutdowns in 2020. To help with their recovery and resilience, the Metuchen Downtown Alliance made investments in public outdoor spaces, turning a block of New Street into a pedestrian-oriented New Streetery. After the Borough Council voted to ease zoning requirements, the Alliance converted street parking spaces into parklets. This created outdoor space for businesses -- including restaurants, shops and fitness studios -- to operate safely. To accommodate diners, the Downtown Alliance purchased over 100 tables with chairs, as well as infrared heaters and lighting. In the summer months, New Street closed to vehicle traffic on weekends, with partial street closures continuing into the winter. Project organizers say that although COVID-19 has since waned, walkability and outdoor dining remain part of Metuchen's downtown culture.

Warren, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: For decades, a 135-acre abandoned hospital was neglected in a Warren neighborhood, leaving older residents without nearby green space. The organization engaged the community through meetings and canvassing. This led to the project that transformed the site into Riverside Park with a walking path, benches, picnic tables and a pollinator garden. Volunteers, nearly half age 50 or over, planted 100 trees, creating a space for exercise and social connection. Residents say the area feels "alive" again, and a neighborhood association now meets weekly to maintain the park, ensuring it remains a vibrant community asset.

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

Newark, DE

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public space activation

Description: In the Milford Community Garden, Food Bank of Delaware faced a basic barrier: the audio system was difficult to hear. Volunteers and visitors, including many older adults and those with hearing challenges, struggled to follow announcements, conversation and performances. The garden also wanted calming music to support well-being but lacked reliable equipment. The project team installed a permanent outdoor sound system that now carries clear audio across events and daily shifts. It debuted at a poetry night where attendees heard every reader. One organizer said, "You truly created a magical night... please extend our gratitude for providing such a wonderful sound system." Since then, clearer sound has improved access for older adults, strengthened communication and made the garden a dependable venue partners can use for inclusive programs.

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