Anniston, AL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Trails

Description: Anniston will build 1.2 miles of new trails and upgrade paths with ramps, handrails, benches, bridges and signs across the campus. The changes will improve connections, support safe walking and help visitors learn and explore at their own pace.

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.

Newark, NJ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Trails

Description: Older adults in Newark often navigate streets and transportation systems that were not designed with aging in mind, especially those without cars who rely on walking or bicycling for everyday needs. Their lived experience is frequently missing from planning discussions, even as safety and independence become more fragile with age. New Jersey Bike and Walk Coalition addressed this gap by creating welcoming spaces where older adults could learn about mobility options and speak directly about what works and what does not. A Senior Mobility Fair drew hundreds of older adults to try mobility tools, connect with resources and share stories about moving through the city. The project also partnered older adults with youth to record interviews, videos and portraits, including perspectives from residents with visual impairments. City leaders attended and heard these accounts firsthand, helping ground future mobility conversations in real experiences.

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