Mesa, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Public safety interventions

Description: This project will create an artistic crosswalk and update curbs for ADA compliance near a neighborhood park. The initiative aims to increase safety and access for all residents, especially those age 50-plus.

Tempe, AZ

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Housing Choice Design Competitions

Description: High plan costs and confusing permitting kept many residents from building accessory homes that could support aging in place. Tempe ran a design competition that produced ten standard ADU plans, including accessible and small-footprint options prioritized in the criteria. Hundreds engaged through meetings, an open house and a public vote, and the city is preparing a handout to guide next steps. Staff expect more permit applications and will track how often winning plans are used, connecting homeowners with designers and lowering barriers over time.

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