Manchester, NH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Part of larger efforts to draw people to spend time in downtown Manchester, this project made placemaking improvements to Arms Park. Manchester Connects engaged a local company to design custom chairs for the space, which can gently rock. Additionally, they installed picnic tables, benches and a concrete cornhole set in the park. The park -- located on the banks of the Merrimack River -- is a historic place in the city's core. Organizers hope the new amenities help the park act as a third space -- a public place people can gather without having to spend money.

Bennington, VT

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: After the Town of Bennington removed an out-of-date play structure, Stark Street Park was essentially an empty field. To draw residents of all ages back to the Park, the Town's Office of Community Development devised a plan to add a natural playground, bicycle pump track and a quarter-mile walking path. This project added an accessible path, which loops around the playground. In addition, the Town planted a pollinator garden with perennial plants attractive to butterflies and bees, installed two wooden benches and erected a welcome sign at the park entrance. Since these improvements, the nearby hospital obtained land and trails, which connect to Stark Street Park. The town has also added a mountain bike course onsite.

Leipsic, OH

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: The Village of Leipsic installed a firepit with a pergola and adult swings in Bennett Park. The Village also provided permanent outdoor games for people of all ages, including four concrete cornhole boards and an outdoor checkers and chess board. Before these upgrades, community members considered the park a work in progress. But this project sparked additional investment in the park, including work to fix a drainage issue affecting a nearby playground. "Bennett Park is an outstanding athletic complex being enhanced by a new community track, this funding will allow us to further develop playground and family attractions in our newest park," Village Administrator Justin Barnhart said.