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Wellsburg Urban Renewal Authority with Brooke County AARP (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Wellsburgs Town Square was underused and unsafe for older adults due to uneven brick pavers and limited seating. The project restored 9,000 square feet of pavers, added tables and chairs including an ADA-accessible option and installed murals to brighten vacant storefronts. These upgrades made the space safer and more inviting for daily use and events, such as a childrens' Halloween party. The improvements even sparked interest from a developer to revitalize nearby buildings, signaling long-term impact.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Sisseton, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: To encourage residents to walk and increase the vibrancy of Sisseton's downtown, The Sisseton Arts Council created a new community gathering spot, which they dubbed the Midway Green Space. The site features a sculpture of a reflective, eight-point star, designed to represent the area's native Dakota and Scandinavian immigrant heritage. To make the Green Space inviting to visitors, volunteers installed granite benches and seeded native grasses. Since these improvements, project organizers secured funding for a second sculpture for the site, created by a local Native artist.
Newfolden, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: City of Newfolden set out to solve a clear problem: older adults who rely on the local Senior Center had no accessible outdoor place to meet, socialize or enjoy fresh air. The city created a gathering space with ADA compliant seating, weather-ready awnings and table scapes designed for wheelchairs, giving residents a comfortable place for conversation, meals and games. The improvements support daily connection and help older adults stay engaged in community life. Final pieces, including two custom table scapes, will complete the site. Local students and volunteers will help activate the area, strengthening intergenerational ties and long term use.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Macon-Bibb, GA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: This project will transform a vacant lot near public transit into Spirit of Macon Park, a safe, attractive, multi-purpose green space. The park will offer wellness programs and activities.
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Wellsburg, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Park enhancements
Description: Wellsburg's parks offered few options for older adults, and pickleball's growing popularity highlighted the lack of courts and seating. The project added two new courts, ADA-compliant picnic tables and a memo board, creating a more inclusive space for play and socializing. These upgrades reduced wait times and sparked new partnerships and plans for tournaments. One longtime player said, "Before, we had to drag big wooden picnic tables... Now, we have the luxury of having our own tables!"
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Wheeling, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Warwood lacked a safe, accessible space for growing food and connecting neighbors, leaving older adults with few options for activity and healthy eating. Volunteers transformed a vacant lot into the Loveland Community Garden with 20 raised beds, a storage shed, fencing and benches designed for accessibility. Level paths and recycled-plastic benches made gardening possible for those with mobility challenges. The garden now fosters intergenerational ties, with older adults sharing tips and students forming clubs. Plans for workshops and selling excess crops at local markets promise lasting community engagement.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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