Jamestown, Forman, & West Fargo were awarded a 2019 AARP Community Challenge grant. A total of nearly $1.6 million will be 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.

A total of 1,661 applications, including 27 from North Dakota, were received from non-profits and government entities for the program, now in its third year. North Dakota grants were awarded as follows:

  • Jamestown Parks and Recreation Department ($3,000) to fund a pop-up demonstration bike path as part of Walk/Bike 2019! and to gauge public support for a permanent multi-use path.
  • City of Forman ($1,700) to help create a public green space on a vacant lot on the city’s Main Street.
  • City of West Fargo ($10,900) to install an assortment of games in the new city-owned, downtown plaza along Sheyenne Street to foster social connections among people of all ages.

Each of the projects is designed to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

  • Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
  • Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities” by engaging residents and policymakers in accessing, understanding and using data to increase quality of life for all.
  • 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.

The full list of grantees can be found at www.aarp.org/communitychallenge.