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Bozeman, MT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Streamline is a zero-fare, fixed route bus system that serves about 1,000 riders daily. Because of its popularity, the Human Resource Development Council -- which runs the service -- determined it needed to redesign Streamline's routes and explore ways to expand. To publicize new routes, the Council launched its Doors to Transit campaign. Volunteers painted 15 large, colorful doors displaying information about the new bus service, which the Council temporarily installed around the region. In addition, project organizers hosted a community event to inform residents about new routes and changes to timetables. To draw people in, participants had the chance to win gift cards redeemable at local businesses. Project organizers say these efforts helped reach potential Streamline riders and prepare existing riders for upcoming bus service changes.
Tallahassee, FL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Many older adults lacked confidence to use public transit, limiting independence and access to daily needs. The Ride Ready program launched with branded materials, mailed brochures to 1,750 older adults and created an interactive website. It also hosted group trainings, including a Try Transit Tuesday event with field trips. Free bus passes encouraged participation, which surged to 1,150 people in six months. One trainer noted, "People are always so surprised and enthusiastic when they find out StarMetro offers free travel training services," reflecting growing confidence among older riders.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Richmond, VA
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Volunteers will build and install shaded bench seating at selected bus stops in high-heat areas. The benches will offer safer, cooler waiting spaces for transit riders, especially older adults who use the city’s zero-fare bus system.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Clarkdale, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: Flashing crosswalk beacons and shaded transit stops will be installed along a key corridor. The improvements will create safer crossings between neighborhoods.
Cottonwood, AZ
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Community Gardens
Description: Residents in transitional housing faced food insecurity and limited access to fresh produce, a concern for older adults who rarely had the chance to grow their own food. After construction setbacks, the coalition shifted plans and installed container gardens on a back deck. Despite pests and record heat, participants harvested tomatoes and peppers and learned basic gardening skills. The project sparked interest in self-reliance and created moments of connection. One volunteer said that quiet mornings in the garden helped him open up about personal struggles, leading to mental health support and steps toward employment.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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