HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-16-2020 Parks Packet CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
41 PARKS COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2020
6:00 PM AT CITY HALL
1. Call to Order
11. Approval of Agenda
111. Approve Parks Commission Minutes—January 27, 2020 (1)
IV. Department/Commission Liaison Reports
A. Arborist
B. Public Works Director (2)
C. Other/Commission Liaison Report
V. Visitors/Public Comment
This is an opl)oriwim Jor the public to address the Commission with questions or concerns not on the agenda. Please limit comments
io three minutes.
VI. Public Hearing
None
VII. Old Business
None
VIII. New Business
A. Schedule 2020 Park Walkthrough and Review Past Park Project Priority/Ranking
Lists (3)
B. King Plant Advisory Panel (4)
C. AARP Community Grant Opportunity (5)
IX. Informational
A. Next Meeting: Monday, April 20 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hail
B. Upcoming Council Meeting: Tuesday, March 24 at 6:00 p.m.
X. Adjourn
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C. CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PARKS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Monday,January 27,2020 at City Hall
I. Call to Order: Chair Weyer called the meeting to order. Present: Vice Chair Chirhart,
Commissioner Hoeppner, Commissioner Peterson, City Administrator Johnson, Public
Works Director Kegley, Arborist Danielson, and Commission Liaison Johnson. Absent:
Commissioner Thoreson.
Il. Approval of Agenda: Vice Chair Chirhart, seconded by Commission Peterson, moved to
approve the Agenda. Carried 4-0.
III. Approve Parks and Trails Commission Minutes —December 16, 2019: Commissioner
Peterson, seconded by Chair Weyer, moved to approve the Minutes. Carried 4-0.
IV. Department/Commission Liaison Reports:
A. Arborist: Arborist Danielson reported she would soon be working on the 2020 prairie
vegetation maintenance plan which would include a spring mow and three weed
control visits.
B. Public Works Director: Public Works Director Kegley reported rinks were open at
Brekke and Cover Parks on December 26 as planned. He said an issue identified at
Brekke Park was pucks going through the rink boards due to rot. He said they would
assess in the spring and make replacements.
C. Other/ Commission Liaison Reports: Commission Liaison Johnson reported that the
City Council would be discussing a pollinator garden micro-grant program at their
January 28 City Council meeting.
V. Visitor/Public Comment: None
V1. Public Hearings: None
VII. Old Business: None
VIII. New Business:
A. Recommend Appointment of Judith Chirhart to Second Term: Chair Weyer,
seconded by Commissioner Peterson, moved to recommend Judith Chirhart to a
second term. Carried 4-0.
IX. Annual Meeting of the Parks Commission — Election of Officers
Chair Weyer, seconded by Vice Chair Chirhart, moved to adjourn to the annual meeting.
Carried 4-0.
Page 3 of 28
Parks Commission Minutes
January 27, 2020
Page 2 of 2
Chair Weyer recalled the regular meeting.
Chair Weyer, seconded by Commissioner Hoeppner, moved to appoint Judy Chirhart as
Chair and Hal Peterson as Vice Chair. Carried 4-0.
X. Informational:
A. Next Meeting: Monday, February 24, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall
B. Upcoming Council Meeting: Tuesday, January 28, at 6:00 p.m.
Xl. Adjourn: Commissioner Peterson, seconded by Commissioner Weyer, moved to adjourn.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Pinski
City Clerk
Page 4 of 28
City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd N.•Oak Park I leighls,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax 439-0574
Memorandum
To: Eric Johnson, Administrator
Cc: Park Commission
From: Andrew Kegley, Public Works Director
Date: 03113/2020
Re: Ice Rink Use -2019 / 2020 Season
During their shift, the City's rink attendants take an hourly head count of people using the
rinks as a means to know whether the rinks are being used. The data is NOT an actual total
attendance record, but rather the head count numbers provide us with the number of people
using the rinks each hour throughout the season.
Oak Park Heights was one of the first City's in the area to have established ice this year. As a
result, people from other communities come to use our rinks, especially early in the season
when ours is the only option. The total head count per hour for Brekke is shown below;
Brekke Total Head Count By Hour - 2019/2020 Season
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 2:00 3:00 4:00 5:00 6:00 7:00 8:00
AM AM AM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM
Page 5 of 28
Cover Park is a bit quieter than Brekke, but the usage is steady.
Cover Total Head Count By Hour - 2019 /2020 Season
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
4:00 AM 10:00 11:00 12:00 1:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM S:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM
AM AM PM
Although the data does not represent actual attendance, it does indicate that the rinks are
being used, so the amenity does seem to be beneficial to the community.
2
Page 6 of 28
City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd N.•Oak Park!]eights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax 439-0574
Memorandum
To: Eric Johnson, Administrator
Cc: Park Commissioners
From: Andrew Kegley, Public Works Director'
Date: 03/1212020
Re: Past Park Project Priority /Ranking Lists
Past Park Commissions participated in park walkthroughs to gain perspective of the overall
condition of the City's six (6) Parks. On those walkthroughs, commissioners were encouraged
to envision possible improvements;those improvements were noted and listed on the
ranking sheets in front of you today. The ranking system list the higher priority items with a 1
and lower priority items with a 5.
There are two carry over projects from 2019 that will be completed in spring 2020.
• Oak Park Crossing Drinking Fountain Install
• Cover Park Swing and ADA compliant border install
For your convenience, I've included 2018 and 2019 rankings.
Page 7 of 28
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City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax (651)439-0574
3/13/20
TO: Parks and TraComm' sion
f
FROM: Enc Johnson(City Admin' tflr
RE: King Plant Ad ' ory Panel -' f
Xcel Energy has announced that the Allen S. ing Plant will close in 2028.At 179 acres with 4,000+linear feet along the
St. Croix River, this is a premier property and the re-purposing of this property will have a profound impact on the City,
the St. Croix Valley and beyond. As the City of Oak Park Heights is the primary land-use authority, it has begun to study
the issues and explore ideas relating to how the Allen S. King Plant Site could be repurposed.Any decisions will of course
have impacts well into the 21St Century.
To begin to explore and analyze some of these questions,the City has established the"City of Oak Park Heights Allen
S, King Plant Decommissioning and Reuse Advisory Panel". This Panel has been devised to facilitate and
educational and visioning process that will consider a broad spectrum of opportunities and constraints,including physical,
environmental, economic, social, scenic, recreational and more. This process will be moderated by a professional
planning firm (STANTEC) and will also include the preparation of very preliminary conceptual master plans that can
visually demonstrate options for future concept discussions.
The City Council intends that the Panel should be representative of a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including local,
regional, state and federal interests. The objective is for all parties regardless of their affiliations to better understand the
complexity of the issues and the magnitude of the opportunities that are presented by this transformation and NOT to
determine a final use. The Panel is intended to help inform the City's actions at every step in the decommissioning
process and to contribute to the creation of a vision that is worthy of this opportunity.
The first meeting is expected in late MAY and be monthly thereafter; STAFF would anticipate most meetings would be
in the evenings.
Accordingly, the City Council would request the Park Commission to appoint a single representative (and an
alternate) to serve on the City of Oak Park Heights Allen S. King Decommissioning Advisory Panel. The Panel
members will be asked to participate in approximately one meeting per month for twelve months to gain
information from various experts and interested voices.
This appointment could be made in March or April.
ENCLOSED IS THE ADOPTED POLICY RELATING TO THE PROCESS AND PANEL.
Page 13 of 28
l-1L,Vf ILLI L/GJ(GV
i
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
POLICIES RELATING TO THE ALLEN S.KING PLANT DECOMMISSIONING AND REUSE
ADVISORY PANEL—APPOINTMENTS AND ROLES
PURPOSE:
The City Council desires to appoint an Advisory Panel to inform and support the City Council's decision making
regarding the future of the Allen S.King Plant.The following policy shall govern the formulation of this group,
describes its roIc and relationship with the Council and what the expectations are from participating members.
Invitation to Serve on the Advisory Panel:
The City desires participation from a number of parties generally known in the community with an apparent
stake or clear interest in such dialogue and which includes the organizations listed below.
These entities will be sent a Letter of Invitation to participate in the City's process and such invitation shall be
signed by the Mayor and every Council member.Each group,or organization if they desire to participate shall
nominate a SINGLE representative, who is expected to be available to attend 10-12 monthly meetings. The
City's desire is that such person would generally relay the views of the organization they represent where
possible.All members so appointed shall be reviewed and approved by unanimous consent of the City Council.
I. City of OPH Planning Commission(1 member)
2. City of OPH Parks Commission(1 member)
3. Xcel Energy
4. Washin«ton County GDA
5. The St. Croix River Association
6. Watershed District-MSCWMO
7. Andersen Corporation
8. The City of Bayport—MUST BE A NON—ELECTED OFFICIAL
9. The City of Stillwater-MUST BE A NON—ELECTED OFFICIAL
10. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
11, Minnesota Department of Transportation
12. Greater Stillwater Area Chamber of Commerce
13. National Park Service
14. Greater Stillwater Area School District-MUST BE A NON—ELECTED OFFICIAL-(2 seats one must be a
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT expected to be able to serve through the term of the discussions)
15. Coalition of Utility Cities
16. Sierra Club
17. Center for Environmental Advocacy
18. Union Pacific Railroad
1.9. Real Estate Group—TBD(such as the SPAAR... St. Paul Area Association of Realtors
20. Three(3)At-Large Members(may be either City residents,or business owners)may be invited to serve on the
Panel. Interested individuals shall submit a letter and application to the Council explaining their role in the
community and interest in serving on the Advisory Panel.Depending on the level of interest,the Council may
choose to decrease or increase the number of at-large members.
Locally Elected Officials are precluded from serving on this Panel where they directly represent a given city,
school district, county's interest. In the case of these public organizations the appointment of staff, volunteers,
or other appointed officials to their respective bodies is requested. For example: The City of Stillwater may
appoint their Plaiuiing Commission Chair who is a non-elected person but is appointed by the City Council.
In circumstances where there is a"joint-powers"organization such as the MSCWMO or WCCDA,appointment
of Staff or Nan-elected officials is preferred. However, this may result on overtime expenses or budgetary
constraints that may preclude participation.If such staff or other volunteer is not available and if such JPA board
members are elected individuals and are available,the City Council may evaluate these on a case-by-case basis
so as to ascertain their underlying entity and relationships.Any person so appointed would be expected to clearly
represent the joint-powers entity,not their primary jurisdiction. Page 14 of 28
AV
pointment of Co-Chairs:
The City Council also desires the appointment ofCO-CHAIRS positions so as to better ensure continuity of the
process in the event one person cannot attend.The role of the"co-chair"is to ensure the meetings move forward
and to facilitate the discussion and presentations and in allotted time. In all respects, the CO-CHAIR position
acts only as manager to ensure the process remains vital and fluid and not to advocate for any given position.
The lvlayor or a Council Member may nominate and the Council shall appoint tip to two co-chairs, any such
appointment shah be by unanimous vote Of tile City Council. If no chair{s}can be determined,the Panel shall be
managed by City Staff or City Consultant until such time as a CO CHAIR can be found. A CO-CHAIR rnav be
removed from the Panel by simple majority of the Council. The appointed CO-Chair individuals may Or may
not be otherwise listed in the invited participation listing stated above, if not listed they shall become full
members of the Panel once appointed.
Further Expectations of the Advisory Panel:
The mectings are generally anticipated to be a method by which Panel Member can avail themselves of the best
available information regarding the many facets of regulations. challenges and opportunities related to this site.
Fundamental ly, few— if any, decisions are expected to be made by the Panel itself. As the discovery process
unfolds, all members of the Advisory Panel are expected to follow a Code of Conduct that will be provided by
the City and which will outline rules of discussion and how any collective recommendations might be made.All
members serve at the pleasure of the City Council and the City Council may amend the number of participants
or which participants at any time at its sole discretion.
Guests &Public Visibilitv:
Tile Cite mould expect to invite elected or appointed officials to attend the meetings —not as a panelist, but
instead offer them an opportunity to listen and gain more information as to what is being accomplished. These
«ucsts would include: Metropolitan Council Sector 12 - Board Member Local legislators, MPCA., and other
governmental organization representatives. Guests will be welcomed at meetings and materials will be shared
with them,as supplies permit. Otherwise copies will be available for download from the City Website.
The general public is also welcome to view and listen to these meetings as space allows,but such meetings are
not PUBLIC HEARINGS and data presented and dialogue held is for the primary benefit and consumption of
the Panel Members.
City Council Role:
Oak Park Heights elected officials may not serve on the Advisory Panel as the work of the Advisory Panel
is intended to support the Council in its decision making regarding the future of this property.The Council
will be fully briefed by the Consultant,following every working meeting.The Council will have the opportunity
to either accept and embrace Panel recommendations, or direct course corrections, as needed. As it relates to
City Council general interface with City Consultants, these communications should be channeled through City
Staff similar to current City protocols,
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J C tt�T of oak Park Heights
�N
Memo
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Jennifer Pinski
Date: March 13, 2020
Re: AARP Community Challenge Grant
The City of Oak Park Heights applied for a community challenge grant through AARP in 2019
for a bike share program and did not receive funding. AARP is once again offering the grant,
and I am requesting the Parks and Trails Commission consider what needs the City might have,
possible ideas, and make a recommendation on whether the City should apply for the grant.
We could possibly apply for the bike share program again (I have enclosed last year's memo as
a refresher), or maybe there is something else that you see as a need in our City.
I have enclosed the grant opportunity announcement. You'll see on page 2 of the
announcement what types of projects are acceptable. Attachment C is a list of previously
funded grants for some other ideas.
The application deadline is April 1, 2020. Please discuss possible ideas, and staff will assess
and put together a grant application, if recommended.
Page 17 of 28
City of Oak Park Heights
Memo
To: Parks Commission
From: Jennifer Pinski
Date: April 12, 2019
Re: AARP Community Challenge Grant
Councilmember Johnson provided staff with information on a grant opportunity she recently
learned about. The grant is through AARP and is called the AARP Community Challenge.
The grant application is due on April 17 and is for community-based "quick-action"projects
related to housing, transportation, smart cities, and public spaces.
Staff reviewed the eligibility and guidelines and reached out to Boutwells Landing to discuss
possibilities/ideas that would fit a need and improve livability in the community. After a
meeting with their staff, there was a joint interest in creating a free bike share program.
Staff believes a bike share project would fit the scope of the grant opportunity in that it would
provide a mobility option that increases connectivity and bikeability and encourages physical
activity. Not only does this provide residents with a convenient mode of transportation, it also
helps reduce the city's travel-related carbon footprint.
City Council took action at their April 9, 2019 Council Meeting supporting the idea and
authorizing staff to apply for the grant to create a bike share program. Staff will complete the
application seeking funds for a bike rack, a fix-it station, bicycles, signage, GPS units for the
bikes, and promotion. Staff will work with Boutwells Landing to determine the best location
for the bike rack and fix-it station, but the fixtures would be placed alongside a City trail on
public property.
The following are estimated costs for the project, and there is no requirement for snatching
funds:
Element Cost
Bike rack $600
Fix-it Station $1400
Bicycles $2000
Signage/labels $500
Promotional materials $500
TOTAL $5000
Page 18 of 28
....
AARP
r
COMMUNITY
MP
Real Possibilities CHALLENGE
Grants to make communities livable for people of all ages
aarp.org/CommunityChallenge
"QUICK-ACTION"GRANTS TO MAKE COMMUNITIES
MORE LIVABLE FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES
AARP invites you to submit applications for quick-action projects that can help your community become
more livable. Applications are now being accepted for small grants to improve housing,transportation,
public space, smart cities, civic engagement and more.
Applications are due by April 1, 2020, 11:59 p.m. ET. All projects must be completed by November 9, 2020.
Applications must be submitted through www.aarp.org/communitychallenge.
AARP AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES
AARP's work on livable communities supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties
nationwide to become more livable.We believe that communities should provide safe,walkable streets;
affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and
opportunities for residents to participate in civic and community life.
AARP has offices in every state,the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and is working
with local leaders in more than 430 communities who are part of the AARP Network of Age Friendly States and
Communities. Ultimately, our vision is for a future in which places—urban, suburban and rural—are great for
people of all ages,
AARP COKAMUNITYCHALLENGE
We know that it takes time to build great places for all ages, but we also believe that quick actions spark
longer-term progress.AARP launched the AARP Community Challenge to fund projects that build momentum
for change. Since 2017,the AARP Community Challenge has awarded 376 grants.
AARP is currently soliciting applications for 2020 funding.Applications are due by April 1,2020, 11:59 p.m.
ET,and all projects must be completed by November 9,2020.
Applications must be submitted through aarp.org/communitychallenge. See Attachment A for the
sample application outline.
Learn more at AARP.orgjCommunitvChallenee Questions?Email CommunitvC{hallenF(' AARP.or{
t Page 19 of 28
,, . .. .. . _.._ e.. .. .... ..... ..... .__. . .... ._ AARP Community Challenge 2020
The program is open to the following types of organizations:
• 501(c)(3),501(c)(4)and 501(c)(5) nonprofits
• Government entities
• Other types of organizations, considered on a case-by-case basis
The following projects are NOT eligible for funding:
• Partisan, political or election-related activities
• Planning activities and assessments and surveys of communities
• Studies with no follow-up action
• Publication of books or reports
•Acquisition of land and/or buildings
• Sponsorships of other organizations' events or activities
• Research and development for a nonprofit endeavor
• Research and development for a for-profit endeavor
• The promotion of a for-profit entity and/or its products and services
WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS ARE ACCEPTABLE?
See Attachment C for specific examples from previous AARP Community Challenges.AARP will prioritize
projects that aim to achieve the following outcomes:
• *New in 2020*Increasing civic engagement with innovative and tangible projects to bring residents
and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate greater sense of community inclusion and
diversity.
• Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
• Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity,walkability,
bikeability,wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements.
• Support the availability of a range of housing that increases accessible and affordable housing options.
• Demonstrate the tangible value of"Smart Cities" with programs that engage residents in accessing,
understanding and using data, and participating in decision-making to increase quality of life for all.
• Other community improvements. In addition to the five areas of focus, AARP wants to hear about local
needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.
Note:While the new civic engagement category is targeted to local governments, nonprofits can still apply for and
receive a grant in this category, but they must demonstrate that they are working with local governments to solicit and
include residents' insights on the project or to help solve a pressing challenge.
Community Challenge grants can be used to support the following types of projects:
• Permanent physical improvements in the community
• Temporary demonstrations that lead to long-term change
• New,innovative programming or services
Please note: Proposed project types described above will be prioritized over those that support ongoing
programming or events.
The activity defined in the proposal must be completed by November 9,2020.
Learn more atAPRP orK/ComlllunityChallenp:eQuestions.?Email Comm.unityChallenge2AARP.org
Page 20 of 28
AARP Community Challenge 2020
GRANT AMOUNT
If your idea is big, no project is too small! Grants can range from several hundred dollars for smaller short-
term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands of dollars for larger projects.
DOES YOUR PROJECT HAVE TO TAKE PLACE IN A COMMUNITY THAT BELONGS TO THE AARP
NETWORK OF AGE FRIENDLY STATES AND COMMUNITIES?
No, Projects that benefit any community and satisfy all other criteria are eligible for consideration.
2020 COMMUNITY CHALLENGE TIMELINE
Dates Key Activity
April 1(1159 p.m.ET) Deadline for applications.
Week of May 26 Winning applicants notified by email, non-selects to also be notified this week.
June 29 Deadline for MOU and vendor forms to be completed and returned by grantees
to AARP.
July 15(tentative) National and state announcements of winning grantees to public and projects can
start.
November 9 Deadline for project completion.
December 11 Deadline for After-Action Report.
HOW DOES AN ORGANIZATION APPLY?
All applications must be submitted through AARP.org/CommunityChallenge by April 1,
11:59 p.m. ET.
GRANT SELECTION
Grant recipients will be selected by an AARP panel of experts on aging, community development and livable
communities. Projects will be judged on the degree to which theirgoals make an immediate change that leads
to longer-term impact in a manner that meets all other selection criteria.
THRESHOLD CRITERIA(must meet the following criteria to be considered):
• All items in the grant application have been addressed (or noted if not applicable).
• The grant is NOT used for partisan, political or election related activities, or property acquisition.
• The grant is NOT used to promote a for-profit or its products and/or services.
• The grant is for one of the uses in the Project Details section of the application.
More specifically,the projects will be assessed on:
• IMPACT(45 points)—The proposed project addresses a clear need that brings positive change to the
community and effectively engages residents.The project also demonstrates the ability to accelerate,
grow and/or sustain the community's livability for all, especially those 50-plus.
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AARP Community Challenge 2020
• EXECUTION (40 points)—Applicants demonstrate capacity to deliver the Community Challenge project
on time and within the awarded budget, as well as show that the project will effectively leverage
volunteers.
r INNOVATION (15 points)—The project demonstrates creativity, aesthetic beauty, unusual design or
engagement elements, and/or the potential to spark additional community change.
AARP reserves the right to make funding decisions based on other criteria, in addition to those described herein.
An Opportunity for Other Possible AARP Funding:
Please note that by submitting a proposal for the AARP Community Challenge initiative, you and your
organization give AARP permission to reach out to you and others at your organization about other possible
AARP funding opportunities that your proposal may be eligible for based on the AARP Community Challenge
criteria. However, please note that AARP is not obligated in any way to consider your proposal for any
additional AARP funding.
Note Regarding Other Potential Funders:
AARP might be contacted by other potential funders that could be interested in funding projects that were not
funded through the AARP Community Challenge.The potential funders may have additional process steps and
funding requirements than those of the AARP Community Challenge. If requested,AARP would like to send your
contact information,organization name and a short description of the proposal, including the community
where the project would take place ("Project Information"). Please note that these projects will be subject to
any potential funder's own terms, conditions and review. Please indicate in your application whether or not
you give permission to AARP to share your contact information and a description of your proposal. If you
select"yes,"you agree on behalf of yourself and your organization to release AARP from all liability associated
with sharing the Project Information with potential funders. We will alert you before this information is given
to potential funders.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
• Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements.
• Applications must be submitted through AARP.org/CommunityChallenge with all pertinent information.
• Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
NOTIFICATION
Grant recipients and unselected applications will be notified by email. Grantees must execute and email a
binding Memorandum of Understanding and completed vendor forms to AARP by June 29, 2020.
Noncompliance with this time period may result in disqualification or delayed funding.
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AARP Community Challenge 2020
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
By submitting an application to AARP, the applicant agrees that:
• The decisions of AARP regarding the eligibility of participants and the validity of entries shall be final and
binding.
• All submissions will be judged by AARP, whose decisions and determinations as to the administration of
the award and selection of award recipients are final.
• AARP has the right, in its sole discretion,to cancel, or suspend the award.
• All projects and applications shall not violate any third-party rights.
• Except where prohibited by law,participation in the AARP Community Challenge constitutes the
Applicant's consent to AARP's use of the organization's name and corporate logo,street address,city,
state, zip code, county, and names, likenesses, photographs,videos, images, and statements made or
provided by the Applicant's representatives regarding the award for promotional purposes in any media
without further permission, consent, payment or other consideration.
All promotional materials (such as newsletters, press releases), events and signage related to the funded
project will include a statement indicating that support was received from AARP.
The organization is required to capture photos of the project and is encouraged to capture video. As the
organization captures photos and video of the project, if an identifiable individual appears in the photos
and/or videos,the organization is responsible for having him/her sign the AARP General Release (this
document will be provided to grantees with the MOU and other required paperwork). In addition, the
organization should not include any element in photos or videos provided to AARP that may violate third
party rights such as artwork and trademarks in text and logo other than those owned by the organization and
AARP.The organization should be prepared to send work in progress photos to AARP upon request. Following
the grant period,grantees are required to respond to periodic requests for updates from AARP.
AARP and its affiliated organizations,subsidiaries,agents and employees are not responsible for late, lost,
illegible, incomplete,stolen, misdirected,illegitimate,or impermissible submissions or any other error whether
human,mechanical or electronic.
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R i P R AARP A ■ P
I, COMMUNITY
A
Real Possibilities CHALLENGE
Grants to make communities livable for people of all ages
aarp.org/CornmunityChallenge
ATTACHMENT C: EXAMPLES OF PREVIOUSLY FUNDED COMMUNITY CHALLENGE
PROJECTS ; CATEGORY
Increase civic engagement ,.a, th innovative and tangible projects that bring residents into the work of
government with the goal of better functionality and to improve relationships between residents and local
government.
The city used the grant to help host a hackathon called"A City for All" in September 2017 to
coincide with the National Day for Civic Hacking. Participants broke into teams to develop
ideas for using data to improve Seattle's outdoor spaces,address the social isolation that can
Seattle,WA
City of Seattle
come with age and increase transportation accessibility. One prize winner focused on
improving the pedestrian experience by creating an app that maps the city's sounds,smells,
tree canopy,points of interest and other street-level information.With the hackathon,the
city was able to promote both intergenerational and interdepartmental engagement.
Create vibrant public places in the community through permanent or temporary solutions that improve open
spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
The AARP Community Challenge grant funded the city's new"music park"outside of the
Avoca, IA public library.The location's oversized, weather-proof instruments require neither training
Avoca Public Library nor talent to play.During the summer,Avoca closes its main street for a weekly farmers
market.The instruments provide a stay and play area that encourages people to spend time
outdoors and enjoy the downtown.
Roughly 30 percent of the population in this low-income neighborhood is age SO or older.
Baton Rouge,LA
While improvements to Longfellow Park are planned,the absence of crosswalks,lighting and
Center for Planning
last-mile connectivity are barriers to safe access, separating the nearby neighborhoods from
both the park and other amenities.AARP funding helped provide missing links by adding ADA-
Excellence
accessible high-visibility crosswalks,relevant signage and lighting at key intersections near
the park.
Age-friendly benches were installed in each of the main street districts to help engage older
Boston,MA residents and enhance local economic activity.This project helped build a framework for a
City of Boston sustainable city-wide bench program that addresses longer-term issues of installation and
maintenance.
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AARP Community Challenge 2020
Bereft of any welcoming amenities,a 120-foot-long alleyway in downtown Camden received
Camden,SC a major face-lift. Passersby were encouraged to pop in during the"alley activation project"
and make a stained-glass globe that hangs alongside new shade canopies and LED string
lights.
The City of Jackson used Open Streets design practices to engage residents of the downtown
Jackson, MS community by activating new public spaces for people of all ages to interact with each other.
f:ityf:acltison Designing a parklet with a large mural backdrop and ground mural for safe crossing enhanced
public safety by improving pedestrian accessibility.
There has been strong community support for developing more recreational space along the
Manchester, NH Merrimack River.AARP funding helped furnish Arms Park with tables, chairs, umbrellas,
i. a ;f: .ester Connects planters and community message boards to create a gathering and event space at the park,
the city's primary access point to the river.
Oconomowoc, WI The funds were used to turn an alleyway into a corridor to connect the Main Street with a
City of oconomW"oc nearby lake,giving pedestrians safer access to recreational opportunities.
Although Saco has two public beaches, residents who use wheelchairs,canes or walkers
cannot access the shoreline due to the lack of a stable surface on which they can safely travel.
The Bayview public beach took an initial step toward accommodating them with its recent
Saco,ME
construction of accessible public restrooms.An AARP grant covered the cost of three ADA-
Age Friendly Saco
compliant beach mats, which provide a nonslip,semi-rigid roll-out walking surface.The mats
take individuals directly from the handicapped parking spaces to the high-water mark on the
beach.
More public places projects
Boise,ID
iuia,so Srria,ۥt Growth Constructed a pop-up plaza to demonstrate the benefits of public gathering places.
Charlotte, NC The grant funded two porch swings at bus stops along Belmont Avenue,the community's
City of Charlotte primary bus route,where many older adults rely heavily on public transit.
Columbia,SC The grant funded seating along Main Street,which attracts a residents and hosts events that
City of Co i,,mbia draw people from the surrounding region.
Detroit, MI This grant helped to create a multigenerational community-built playground in an area
Eden gardens Block Club currently without any safe, nearby play resources.
Gulfport,MS The grant was used to create a "Bark Park"on an acre of property at the new Brickyard Bayou
City of Gulfport Park, located in a part of the city that was devastated during Hurricane Katrina and is being
redeveloped as a multi-use park.
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1111111111111111111110�7777- - - - AARP Community Challenge 2020
Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options in the community through permanent or
temporary solutions to increase connectivity, Walkability, bikeability, and access to public and private
transit.
The West Ashley Greenway is a former rail line that has been converted into a bicycle and
pedestrian trail that connects businesses, parks, schools, municipal facilities and
Charleston,5C neighborhoods.AARP provided funds for upgrading select intersections with artistic
crosswalks.The goals were to slow down automotive traffic and draw attention to the safety
Charleston Moves
u needs of pedestrians and cyclists.With the increasing numbers of retirees and families in the
neighborhood interested in non motorized transportation, improving the greenway has
become a vital need.
t Christiansted,VI
Virgin Islands Trail To enhance physical activity and social engagement,VI Trail Alliance and Partners used this
Alliance and Partners& grant to install a permanent bike lane,with benches and bike racks that extends around
St.Croix Foundation for Historical Christiansted Town.
Community Development
As part of the city's broader Complete Streets efforts,this grant funded the installation of an
Kansas City,Mo
BetterBlaekKC enhanced crosswalk, parking, protected bike lanes and floating bus stops to promote safety
and more pedestrian activity along Oak Street.
Miami,FL Residents of Miami's Little Havana neighborhood use public transit three times more often
Urban Health than the general population in Miami-Dade County. Multiple bus routes and two free trolley
Partnerships&the routes serve the area. However, because of constraints in the right-of-way,there are few
Miami-Dade Age-Friendly benches where riders, particularly older adults, can sit while waiting.AARP funded the
Initiative purchase of 32 benches, which were installed through a pilot project with the city of Miami.
Feedback from older residents in West Sacramento has targeted transportation as a key
„ concern. However, it can be a challenge for city buses to meet all of the community's needs.
West Sacramento,CA Although ride-sharing apps are becoming more available,some older people aren't
City of!%vest Sacramento comfortable using the technology.AARP funding enabled older residents to receive training
�
and a free trial use of two transit programs:the on-demand, ride-sharing car service Via,with
a wheelchair-accessible van available,and the Jump bikes rental program,which provides
dockless,electric-assist bicycles.
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AARP Community Challenge 2020
More transportation projects
Chino Valley,AZ The grant was used to install a much-needed ADA-compliant pad and walkway at a transit
Yavapai Regional Transit Inc. station.
Hamlin,WV
The grant helped improve transportation mobility by funding the creation of artistic
Lincoln County Friends of the
crosswalks in areas served by the regional bus service.
Arts
Honolulu,HI The grant funded a workshop,social rides and free bikeshare access in order to build
Bikeshare Hawaii
confidence and familiarity among older adults with a mobility option that promotes healthy
lifestyles.
Orange County,NC Working in cooperation with the county's public transportation department,the grant
Orange County Department improved bus ridership in the more rural parts of northern Orange County where few stops
on Aging have adequate shelters, benches or even flat areas for waiting passengers.
Support the availability of a range of hOUsing in the community through permanent or temporary solutions
that increase accessible and affordable housing options.
Atlanta,GA The AARP grant was used to create a documentary and lecture series about accessory
MicraLife Institute dwelling units(ADUs)and the obstacles communities and homeowners face in creating these
secondary housing units that exist within or adjacent to a primary residence.
Chicago,IL Grant funds were used for a demonstration of accessory dwelling units and for the
Metropolitan Mayors development of model code language throughout the metropolitan area to increase
Caucus awareness about and the production of this housing type.
Lexington, KY
Funds helped create a manual for homeowners and builders about planning for and
City of Lexington Aging
constructing Accessory Dwelling Units.
and Disability Services
Philadelphia, PA
The AARP grant helped support the eviction prevention landlord-tenant mediation program
-- City of Phiiae�,eiphia,
that utilizes mediation,financial assistance, information,and referral's to reach mutually
Office of Community
Empowerment& agreeable solutions in landlord-tenant disputes, reduce eviction and displacement, and foster
vibrant, inclusive communities for residents of ali income levels.
Opportunity
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AARP Community Challenge 2020
Santa Cruz,CA AARP Community Challenge grant funds supported the Habitat for Humanity"My House My
Habitat for Humanity Home"program that helps build aging-friendly accessory dwelling units,typically as an
Monterey Bay attachment to existing houses. Older homeowners can reside in an accessible-home on their
own property and earn rental income from either the new unit or the original house.
More housing projects
Eugene,OR The funds were used for construction materials to complete an ADA-compliant tiny home in
SquareOne Villages Emerald Village Eugene,an affordable housing community of 22 tiny houses
Bethel,ME
Bethel Area The grant was used to construct a display and tool kit featuring accessories that make homes
Age-Friendly safer and help prevent falls.
Demonstrate the tangible value of"Smart Cities" in the community by developing and implementing
innovative programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding, and using data and engage in
decision-making to increase quality of life for all.
The city provided targeted fire safety education to a group of older adult households that are
West Sacramento,CA
at heightened risk and offered an in-home consultation and free smoke alarms and
.. eramento
installation.
to improve the community.
A community-based elders program serves Asian emigrants and refugees age 60 or older.
Philadelphia,PA
Southeast Asian Mutual Nearly all are low-income and not fluent in English.AARP funds helped furnish and enhance
the Elders Story Cafe,a weekly intergenerational gathering in Mifflin Square Park,the
Assistance Associations
Coalition
neighborhood's green space.The project helps keep residents'personal stories and histories
alive,involves them in outdoor activities,and increases the intergenerational use of the park.
To combat the"digital divide"and social isolation,the city developed a hotspot lending
Wichita, KS program using 60 hotspot devices that allow individuals to connect wirelessly to the Internet.
City of Wichita Residents have the ability to check out a device at their Neighborhood Resource Center and
use it at home for a certain number of days.
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