Central Hall Commons receives AARP grant for walk audits

AARP announced 10 organizations throughout Maine will receive 2025 Community Challenge grants.

Among the recipients is the Central Hall Commons of Dover-Foxcroft. This project will conduct five walk audits in downtown Dover-Foxcroft to identify locations for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements. Older volunteers from the community center will participate. Two community meetings will be held to discuss the audit results with residents and business owners.

The grants are part of AARP’s $4.2 million commitment to fund 383 quick-action projects aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, with a focus on the needs of older adults. The funds will support efforts to improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and other key areas.

Now in its ninth year, the Challenge has awarded $546,863 through 81 grants in Maine since 2017 to nonprofit organizations and local government entities across the state. Grant projects will be funded in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“AARP Maine is committed to working with local leaders, advocates and policymakers to make our communities better places to live for Mainers of all ages, especially those 50 and older,” said Noël Bonam, AARP Maine state director. “We are proud to collaborate with this year’s grantees as they make immediate improvements to address long-standing and emerging challenges across our communities.”