Tallahassee, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options

Description: Transportation barriers in Leon County left many older adults missing medical appointments and struggling with food insecurity. The project provided over 600 rides for people age 50-plus to health care, food pantries and essential services, improving access and reducing stress. Nearly half of the trips were for food, and others connected veterans to VA care. One rider said the program let her visit her church pantry safely and gave her a reliable transportation option.

Tallahassee, FL

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2019

Project Category: Park enhancements

Description: Following a year-long planning process, the City of Tallahassee constructed a linear park in its Greater Bond neighborhood. The park includes a walking trail stretching from Speed Spencer Stephens Park on the east side of the city to the St. Marks Trail to the west. Originally a drainage easement, the site once had an open ditch running through it. To ensure the new park's accessibility, the City installed a bench swing and a wheelchair-accessible drinking fountain with a water bottle filler. Designed as a community gathering space, project organizers hope the linear park acts as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization.