What makes a community more livable? One important element is walkability – ensuring that people of all ages and abilities are able to walk safely.

Through surveys and research, the Downtown Sioux Falls organization was able to identify two key locations where walkability and safety was suffering downtown, and they received an AARP Community Challenge Grant to try to tackle the problem.

The Community Challenge grants fund innovative projects that can inspire change in areas such as transportation, open spaces, housing, smart cities and more. For the third annual AARP Community Challenge in 2019, AARP received more than 1,660 applications from nonprofits and government entities, resulting in a highly competitive selection process. A total of nearly $1.6 million was distributed to fund 159 quick-action projects across the country, helping communities make immediate improvements and jumpstart long-term progress to support residents of all ages.

Through the grant awarded to DTSF, the organization improved walkability by funding crosswalk enhancements that will calm traffic and create a more accessible and appealing public realm, while improving safety and comfort for people of all ages and abilities.

To find out more about the program and the other South Dakota grantees check out www.aarp.org/CommunityChallenge.

Also, check out this great story recapping the DTSF efforts: https://www.ksfy.com/content/news/DTSF-awarded-grant-to-help-with-improving-downtown-walkability-513011071.html.