Pine Bluff, AR

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Cyclists in Pine Bluff faced safety risks from the lack of bike lanes, limiting options for active transportation. To address this, the city held three bike audits in the regional park, engaging older adults to identify hazards and shape plans. The audits set goals for adding bike lanes and created a safe space for residents age 50-plus to ride. Findings will guide funding requests for bike lanes and ramps, and the effort sparked interest in future cycling events. One participant said she hopes for more opportunities to "ride and fellowship," underscoring the project's role in promoting safety and social connection.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Baltimore, MD

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Unsafe street conditions made walking and biking difficult in Mount Clare, especially for older adults navigating fast traffic and limited cycling infrastructure. Mount Clare Community Council organized a volunteer-led bike audit to document these risks and bring resident experiences into local planning. Volunteers completed intersection traffic counts, ride-along audits and walk audits that captured how speeding and driver behavior affect daily travel. New virtual meeting equipment also expanded access, drawing more older adults and retirees into neighborhood discussions. The findings helped advance a planned cycle track on Pratt Street and informed a broader neighborhood plan with additional cycling improvements. One participant age 50-plus said the audit encouraged him to start biking and speak out about the need for traffic calming after seeing the dangers firsthand.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

Jerseyville, IL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bike Audits

Description: Jerseyville had no bike infrastructure, leaving older adults without safe routes to reach grocery stores and other essentials. Bike audits revealed critical gaps, from missing bike lanes and traffic-calming measures, to the need for signage and parking. These findings will guide a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, expected to prompt long-term upgrades and safety education. A local cycling advocate said he was excited to see the city begin this effort, calling it an important step toward improving biking and pedestrian access.

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.