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Willcox Theater and Arts Inc. (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
Despite years of neglect, the Heritage Courtyard represents a beloved and beautiful part of Willcox's downtown. To make the space more welcoming to residents of all ages, Willcox Theater and Arts -- whose building is adjacent to the courtyard -- installed benches, bulletin boards and planters. Additionally, a local craftsman constructed a new gateway for the space, which is coated in copper to pay homage to Arizona's mining history. The courtyard contributes to downtown walkability and is first project in the town's Downtown Revitalization Plan, paving the way for future community improvements. The City plans to use the park for special events, exhibits and storytelling activities.
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Shelbyville, TN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A central pedestrian corridor will be updated with accessible seating, shade, lighting, wayfinding and public art to enhance comfort and flow. These upgrades will support everyday walking and informal gatherings year-round.
Camden, SC
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2017
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Camden's Main Street program transformed the city's Broad Street alley into a vibrant throughway for shoppers and diners. To involve community members in the makeover, the City invited residents to the space to create stained glass-like globes out of tissue paper. By hanging the completed art pieces and adding LED string lights and shade canopies, the City created a decorative, open ceiling to the alley. They later added benches and planters to create an outdoor gathering space. "It's wonderful to see the residents who created pieces strolling through the alley and pointing out to friends and family where their piece is located," Camden Main Street Program Manager Katherine Spadacenta said.
Weston, WV
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A paved, covered outdoor seating area will be added beside the dining room with safe walkway access at the local Senior Center. The space will allow more visitors to enjoy fresh air and social time during meals and community events.
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Park enhancements
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