AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Valdez Adventure Alliance (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
Most trails in Valdez aren't accessible to people using walkers or wheelchairs, as well as parents or grandparents pushing strollers. Organizers with Valdez Adventure Alliance hoped to make the Shoup Bay Trail more welcoming to people of all ages and abilities through improvements to its trailhead. Volunteers leveled the trailhead and added landscaping. They also installed benches to give visitors a place to rest. Since completing the improvements, organizers have continued to make accessibility upgrades along the trail itself and have rebuilt another 620 feet of pathway.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Miami, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Trails
Description: Friends of the Commodore Trail addressed safety barriers that made reaching and using the trail feel intimidating, especially for older adults navigating fast traffic, curb obstacles and unclear routes. These conditions reduced confidence and limited use of a corridor that connects neighborhoods, parks and daily destinations. The project introduced visible safety improvements, including wayfinding signs, temporary curb ramps, crossing safety flags, traffic-calming pop-ups and targeted clean-ups that reduced immediate trip hazards. Many older adults were involved as participants and volunteers. One resident, speaking about the improved crossings and signage, said, "Now I don't hesitate. I walk more, I feel safer, and I see people I know almost every time I'm out." Several pilots are already informing permanent crosswalk and curb designs, strengthening long-term access and safer shared use of the Trail.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wrightsville, AR
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project will create a 10-foot sidepath from City Hall to Dollar General and turn the overgrown area behind City Hall into an accessible walking path with seating and shade, improving safety and mobility for older adults.
Monticello, WI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Trails
Description: Monticello lacked safe, connected routes for walking and biking, limiting older adults mobility and social engagement. The project installed four bike racks, 12 wayfinding signs, three ADA-compliant benches and painted crosswalks. In addition, six trees were planted, creating shaded rest areas and safer paths. Volunteers, many age 50-plus, helped with installation, and a ribbon-cutting drew 400 attendees. These upgrades encourage outdoor activity, reduce isolation and boost tourism, while setting a model for rural communities to prioritize age-friendly infrastructure.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Whittier, AK
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Three shoreline pull-offs will become accessible pocket parks with seating and a kayak rack. The improvements will support safe waterfront access and rest opportunities.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Alaska State Office
3601 C Street
Suite 1420
Anchorage, AK 99503
United States