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Virgin Island Trail Alliance (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
Many trails on St. Croix were impassable after hurricane damage. As part of disaster recovery efforts, Virgin Islands Trail Alliance restored eight miles of rainforest trails. To do this, volunteers cut through foliage, cleared weeds, pulled up roots and raked up debris, allowing the trails to reopen. Additionally, they installed new signage, which help visitors navigate, communicate trail rules and identify tree species. The activation effort also involved installing picnic tables and benches along the path to give people a space to rest. To help visitors access the trails, volunteers cleared parking areas and installed bollards to prevent people from driving vehicles onto the trails. Volunteer workers included participants in a nonprofit program carpentry skills program. Since the restoration, project organizers say hikers and cyclists have returned to the trails.
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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.
Kansas City, MO
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Trails
Description: The WeAreMarlborough project installed 16 bike racks and two benches along the Greealk, a new two-mile walking path that winds through Marlborough. The pathway connects residents to three new city parks, as well as rapid transit lines. To meet residents' needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Marlborough Community Coalition also erected temporary two Little Free Food Panty locations along the Greealk, one in a local community garden and the other in a pocket park. In addition, the organization hosted activities, including safe biking workshops, a community Halloween celebration. Project organizers say neighbors requested improved greenspace for years -- new amenities along the Greealk represent steps toward a more healthy, active community.
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.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Frederiksted, VI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Hurricane Maria left the Orchid House at St. George Village Botanical Garden in ruins, exposing orchids and damaging shade structures and irrigation. The Society restored the space by installing a new roof frame and shade cloth, replacing hazardous grillwork and repairing the irrigation system. Volunteers relocated and repotted orchids and refurbished the interior. The renovation revived a historic site and boosted engagement, with membership growing by more than 10 percent. The number of volunteers increased as well. Residents expressed appreciation, saying the garden feels "like a sacred place." The project will support ongoing orchid care and cultural education.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Frederiksted, VI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Disaster Preparedness
Description: Older adults in Frederiksted face serious risks during hurricanes, especially when managing medications, medical equipment and evacuation decisions. Tradewind Foundation addressed that gap by hosting hands-on disaster preparedness training sessions focused on practical steps residents could take before storms hit. Participants learned how to build emergency plans, organize supplies, protect medications and communicate with family and caregivers. Preparedness resources were also distributed for continued use at home. One participant said the training replaced uncertainty with a clear plan for handling medical needs during hurricane season. By improving household readiness and confidence, the project helped older adults feel safer staying in their homes during future emergencies.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Christensted (St. Croix), VI 00820
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