Bismarck, ND

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Many residents lacked knowledge about how to use public transit, creating barriers for older adults and people with disabilities-especially after the local taxi service closed. Bis-Man Transit produced 11 short instructional videos explaining trip planning, timetables, fares and stop requests. Shared online and used in training sessions, these videos provide a lasting resource to help riders feel confident using public transit. Volunteers, including an older adult and a wheelchair user, appeared in the videos to show real-life scenarios, making the system more approachable and accessible.

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

North Bennington, VT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: The project will install bus shelters with seating and message boards. These shelters will help riders, especially older adults and people with disabilities, wait safely for public transportation.

Burlington, VT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Public or private transit access

Description: Older adults and riders with mobility challenges often waited on uneven surfaces at Burlington-area bus stops lacking seating and ADA-compliant pads. GMT addressed this by installing five compact benches and four slip-resistant concrete pads at high-ridership stops near local communities. The project also featured a Ride Together event where older residents learned to navigate schedules, apps and fare payment. These upgrades improved safety, comfort and visibility, and Burlington officials are considering expanding the seating model citywide. Early feedback has been positive, with riders and community members praising the benches and noting increased use.

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