Jackson, Tenn. – The City of Jackson, TN is thrilled to announce that we have been selected to receive a 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant. This year, only 750 grantees were chosen from 5,100 applications from across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
With this quick-action grant, we will install five (5) enhanced crosswalks with accessibility upgrades, high-visibility markings, and pedestrian warning features to improve crossing safety in two Downtown and South Jackson locations, especially benefiting older residents. This project will advance our efforts to make downtown and Bemis a place where people of all ages can thrive.
“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected the City of Jackson, TN for this investment to help make downtown and the Bemis community more livable for residents of all ages,” said City of Jackson, TN Service Innovation Director Abby Palmer. “AARP is a national leader in supporting communities to become more livable, and we are honored they recognize the value and impact this project will bring to our area.”
"Creating a safer, more walkable city is essential to improving the overall quality of life for everyone in Jackson," said Mayor Scott Conger. "With this grant from AARP and Toyota Motor North America, we are able to make immediate, high-impact improvements to our pedestrian infrastructure in Downtown and the Bemis community. These enhanced crosswalks will provide our senior residents with the safety and accessibility they deserve to navigate their neighborhoods with confidence."
This accessibility upgrade project is made possible thanks to a generous grant from AARP, with funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America.
About the AARP Community Challenge
The AARP Community Challenge grant program supports projects that improve public places, housing, transportation, digital connectivity, disaster resilience, and more. In 2026, Toyota Motor North America is funding pedestrian safety projects that aim to enhance streets and sidewalks nationwide. Microsoft is supporting digital connections projects aimed at expanding access to and adoption of high-speed internet (broadband).
These grants are part of AARP’s broader Livable Communities initiative, which helps neighborhoods, towns, cities, and counties across the country become great places for people of all ages. AARP believes communities should offer:
- Safe, walkable streets
- Affordable and accessible housing and transportation options
- Access to essential services
- Opportunities for residents to engage and participate fully in community life
To explore all 750 projects funded this year – or to view an interactive map of current and past Community Challenge projects – visit AARP.org/CommunityChallenge. Learn more about AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities work at AARP.org/Livable.