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Wilmington Alliance (2021) Print
2021 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Transportation
└ Bikeability
└ Bikeability
West Center City is a predominantly Black neighborhood in Wilmington which has historically lacked bicycle infrastructure. To give people a place to park their bikes, Wilmington Alliance installed three new art racks in central areas -- an upgrade from the single bicycle rack that once served the whole neighborhood. Local artists designed Art Racks, with each rack's look highlighting the community's rich history. Project organizers say the racks not only add a secure place to lock up bike but add a sculptural element all can enjoy. They are installed in community gathering spaces, including at greenspaces and community centers.
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See More Projects Like This One
Dallas, TX
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: To work toward creating a safe, bikeable community, Bike Friendly South Dallas expanded its Hub and Spoke program, a partnership with local organizations to install bike repair stations throughout the community. Project organizers installed seven repair stations, as well as cabinets filled with tools for repairs, in an area of South Dallas with no bike shops. Bike Friendly South Dallas also provided training on bike repair skills and bike safety to local partner organizations.
Birmingham, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: For years, Birmingham's busy Titusville neighborhood did not have a strong north/south connector for pedestrians and bicyclists. To address this, the Freshwater Land Trust installed a buffered bike lane -- the Titusville Connector -- along First Street South for five blocks to create a safe and equitable alternative transportation and recreation route for residents living in and around the community. The bike lane, which is located next to an elementary school and links to the multi-modal Neighborway path, allows residents to reach local amenities and the local bus rapid transit route. The Connector's brightly painted lane runs between the sidewalk and parallel parking spaces, making it the first, separated in-street trail in Birmingham.
Yavapai County, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bikeability
Description: Older adults in Cottonwood and Clarkdale lacked safe bike routes, limiting mobility and access to parks and services. The project created the 17-mile Verde Connection Bike Route linking schools, retail areas and parks, added three bike repair stations and installed 161 wayfinding signs. The route offers a secure, scenic path for errands and recreation, fostering independence and social connection while strengthening local cycling clubs. It also sets the stage for future expansions. One participant said, "This project is more than just a route, its a meaningful investment in connectivity and active living."
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Wilmington, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Activities that address social isolation and facilitate community connections
Description: In March 2020, the Delaware Children's Museum closed its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahead of Grandparents Day in September, museum staff developed a specialized online curriculum for grandparents (and the grand at heart -- those who aren't officially grandparents but serve the in the role). Project organizers distributed 300 You're Grand activity bags at the museum's drive-through and at a local community center. Each bag included instructions for remote activities for connecting with grandchildren online or over the phone.
Wilmington, DE
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: As part of its efforts to turn several vacant lots into the 7th and West Streets Park, the Wilmington Alliance (then known as the Wilmington Renaissance Corporation) created a community garden onsite. The Alliance constructed a storage shed and raised-bed gardens, along with two beds for blueberry and raspberry bushes. The shed has lighting, a community bulletin board and a countertop workspace for gardeners. To offer gardeners expertise and support, project organizers also recruited a neighbor to serve as farmer-in-residence. During planning for the new park -- located on a remediated brownfield site -- residents specifically requested a vegetable garden. Today, the garden makes up one-third of the park. "The green space has become a staple in the community, and the neighbors have embraced the opportunities the garden presents," said Laura Semmelroth, director of creative placemaking.
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