Charlotte, NC

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: Charlotte's older adults faced daily risks when navigating unsafe streets, where missing sidewalks, short crossing times and dangerous intersections made routine trips difficult. By speaking with more than 100 residents age 50 and over, the project gathered detailed accounts of these challenges and used them to refine a digital tool that highlights hazardous areas and recommends improvements. Residents' input strengthened the tool's accuracy and helped prompt Charlotte officials to consider it for planning decisions. The effort built trust and gave older adults a clearer voice in shaping safer street design that supports their mobility and confidence.

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

Eastman, GA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: People walking along a busy corridor faced daily safety risks because the street lacked sidewalks and clear crossings. With no designated space to walk, residents had to navigate traffic near schools and nearby destinations, creating particular challenges for older adults making routine trips on foot. The City of Eastman installed new sidewalks and added painted crosswalks with flashing lights and visible signage. Together, these changes created predictable places to walk and cross where none existed before, reducing conflict between vehicles and pedestrians. The improvements eased daily movement for residents who walk for errands, exercise or to accompany family members. Older adults reported feeling safer using the corridor and more confident navigating the area on foot. The project also accelerated local plans to extend sidewalks on adjacent streets, helping reduce the risk of future pedestrian incidents and reinforcing a longer-term shift toward safer walking conditions.

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

Arcadia, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Pedestrian Safety

Description: This project will install pedestrian-friendly wayfinding signage in downtown Arcadia. The signs will highlight key destinations, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.