AARP announced that four Hudson Valley communities have received 2026 Community Challenge grants. Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the grant is part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP, doubling last year’s total to fund 750 quick-action projects nationwide aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. Twenty-three New York State communities received grants totaling $237,500. The Hudson Valley recipients are:
- Village of Croton-on-Hudson: $15,000 to install a rapid-flashing pedestrian beacon on a street with many older residents.
- Finkelstein Library: $12,000 to convert a van into a mobile library that visits older adults in local housing communities to provide books, media, internet access and programming.
- Town of Poughkeepsie: $15,000 to install safety features at a popular park, including a speed feedback sign, a flashing pedestrian sign and a clearly marked crosswalk
- Village of Port Chester: $15,000 to improve downtown pedestrian safety by rebuilding sidewalks and curbs, adding accessible ramps and installing a crosswalk, lighting and a bench
“Communities across New York are eager for real solutions that boost mobility, connection, and quality of life,” AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel said. “These Hudson Valley projects will make this part of New York even more beautiful and livable. We’re excited to see these projects come to life.”
Village of Croton-on-Hudson Mayor Brian Pugh said: “The Village of Croton-on-Hudson is grateful to AARP for this Community Challenge grant to support our forthcoming Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon on Maple St. This project will improve visibility at a key crossing on one of our busiest roadways. An RRFB will facilitate safe routes to school and encourage healthier lifestyles for seniors and families alike. We appreciate AARP’s partnership and shared commitment to building a livable, walkable, and age-friendly community.”
Since 2017, the AARP Community Challenge has awarded $973,688 through 87 grants in New York 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.
View the full list of grantees and their projects at aarp.org/communitychallenge. Learn more about AARP’s work to support livable communities at aarp.org/livable.
