National AARP Grant Funds Bike Share Program
by Trenton, NJ — Trenton Health Team is proud to be named one of just 184 AARP Community Challenge grant recipients nationwide, and looks forward to partnering with Trenton Cycling Revolution and Boys and Girls Club of Mercer County on a model community bicycle sharing program based in the city’s West Ward.
As the COVID-19 pandemic has forced cancellation of many recreation and social activities, THT Executive Director Gregory Paulson noted that opportunities for safe, outdoor activities–such as biking– will be key to residents’ health and well-being. See nj.com news story
“This project will help Trenton residents be active while still following COVID-19 safety guidelines,” Paulson said. “Thanks to AARP, THT will partner with community groups to provide a safe and fun way for residents to be outdoors and active right in their neighborhoods.”
AARP is a nationwide leader in making neighborhoods, towns, and cities more livable for all residents. The AARP Community Challenge funds innovative projects that inspire change in areas such as transportation, public spaces, housing, smart cities, civic engagement, coronavirus response and more.
“We are incredibly excited to support the Trenton Health Team as they work to make immediate improvements in their community and encourage promising ideas and jumpstart long-term change,” said Stephanie Hunsinger, AARP New Jersey State Director. “Our goal at AARP New Jersey is to support the efforts of our communities to be great places for people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities and the coronavirus pandemic has only underscored the importance of this work.”
This pilot program will include three sites offering a set of bicycles, adaptive cycles and adult tricycles from the Boys and Girls Club Bike Exchange for community residents of all abilities, especially older adults. THT will work with each site to create a process for borrowing and monitoring the bikes. As the program gets underway this fall, THT and partners including Trenton Cycling Revolution will share safe biking route maps, as well as host bike safety workshops and a community ride.
In addition, this project will set the stage for a citywide conversation about expanding bike programs, improving the D&R Canal and enhancing street safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
“Trenton Cycling Revolution is dedicated to making cycling safe and fun for all our neighbors,” said Wills Kinsley, President of TCR. “A bicycle share allows more folks the opportunity to tour the town, get exercise or run errands.”
This project promotes wellness for all ages, with a special focus on older adults. Indeed, this bike share project links generations, providing Trenton older adults bikes built and refurbished by youth at the local Boys and Girls Club.
The Trenton Bike Exchange/Boys and Girls Club “is pleased to be able to provide bikes for the new bike share program,” said Ira Saltiel, volunteer director. The all-volunteer organization repairs donated bikes for sale, with all proceeds supporting Boys and Girls Club programs.
