AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Trails
└ Trails
Many trails in this urban old-growth forest were inaccessible for visitors with limited mobility, leaving older adults unable to enjoy nature. The project converted 435 feet of degraded trail into a raised boardwalk with safety rails, added an ADA-compliant bench and installed signage. Volunteers age 50-plus helped prepare and build the trail, which now connects the Nature Center to animal exhibits and a towering tulip tree. The upgrade has prompted visits from assisted living groups and mobility device users, inspiring plans for more accessible trails. "We want more!" said one group after experiencing the new Mini-Loop Trail.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Newark, NJ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project will engage Newarks 50-plus population through interactive events and storytelling sessions to gather input on trails and active transportation.
Hebron, NE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Trails
Description: The Thayer County Walking Coalition aims to provide local residents with opportunities to walk and bike. This project improved trails in the City of Hebron. To create places for walkers to socialize, the coalition added seating areas with shade trees, benches and trash cans. Project organizers installed new signs guiding people to local attractions, including the World's Largest Covered Porch Swing and the site of a World War II POW camp.
Goshen, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Trails
Description: This project will install benches and informational signage along a new accessible loop trail that provides an experience in nature for people of all ages and abilities.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Evansville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Walk Audits
Description: This project will involve a walk audit covering 63 blocks, 72 intersections and several trails to ensure safe, accessible routes for older adults. With 30 volunteers, the project will identify sidewalk issues to help prioritize repairs.
Evansville, IN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022
Project Category: Roadway/sidewalks/crosswalk improvement
Description: This project painted the intersection of North Main and West Michigan streets to improve visibility. It also repaired sidewalks and curbs on nearby streets, where there is a high percentage of older adults.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Indiana State Office
One N. Capitol Avenue
Suite 1275
Indianapolis, IN 46204
United States