MILWAUKEE, WI – The “Pedestrian Dignity Project” – a proposal submitted by VIA Community Development Corporation (VIA CDC) to create a series of beautification projects along National Avenue from 31st to 38th Street – has been selected to receive this month’s AARP Wisconsin Small Dollar, Big Impact grant.
AARP Wisconsin is awarding $1,000 grants each month throughout 2024 to projects across the state that are designed to make communities better places for everyone to live, work and play as they age. Judges selected this project after reviewing dozens of proposals submitted from all over the state.
“This project truly captures the essence of AARP Livable Communities, emphasizing the importance of pedestrian safety and the beautification of an already incredible neighborhood,” said Amber Miller, Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP Wisconsin. “VIA CDC has been a cornerstone of the local community for nearly 30 years, and we’re thrilled to present them with this award. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will bring.”
The grant will help fund the installation of seven bus stop benches, in partnership with the Milwaukee Chapter of Strong Towns-Strong Towns Metro MKE. Since early 2024, Strong Towns Metro MKE has assembled and installed bus stop benches as part of its Bill’s Bus Benches initiative to help bus riders whose stops do not include a place to sit.
“As part of VIA’s focus on commercial corridor beautification and public safety enhancements, the addition of these bus stop benches felt like a perfect collaborative fit to propel both organizations’ visions of pedestrian dignity,” said Brisa Van Galen, Economic Development Director, who led the effort to apply for the grant on behalf of VIA CDC.
The funding will be a catalyst in a series of beautification projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and dignity. After the new benches are in place, 10 massive concrete planters will be installed to serve as traffic calming structures. Artistic gates will then be put in between commercial buildings to deter nuisance activity. Banners will also be installed on light posts marking the Silver city Business District along the National Avenue business corridor.
The project will not only increase beauty, comfort, and safety, but “serve as an attraction to Milwaukeeans who will want to experience the vibrancy of the corridor and the variety of cuisines along National Avenue,” Van Galen said.
The project originated from a conversation with a local business owner who asked for support in securing and installing a bus stop bench outside his storefront, Van Galen explained. The owner noticed that many bus riders would sit on his stoop as they waited for this bus. The conversation led to talks about larger needs along the corridor in the Silver City neighborhood.
VIA connected with Strong Towns Metro MKE and Bill’s Bus Stop Benches to identify which bus stops on National Avenue between 39th and 31st did not have benches.
The project received support from National Avenue business owners, and a suggestion to add art was proposed. Since then, VIA has been working with a tattoo shop owner to add an artistic design to all seven benches during the Silver City Fest on Saturday, Sept. 7. The live art attraction will have an interactive component, where children can participate during designated times.
VIA CDC will ensure that the benches are installed to meet the needs of those with various mobility abilities so that riders can sit comfortably and safely while waiting for the bus and easily access the bus entrance as a rider.
Van Galen said VIA CDC is appreciative of the grant. “VIA is thrilled to lead the Pedestrian Dignity Project, a series of impactful beautification efforts along National Avenue. This initiative is designed to enhance the daily experience of our neighbors in the Silver City neighborhood, creating a more welcoming and comfortable public space that reflects the pride and spirit of our community.”
AARP Wisconsin launched its “Small Dollar, Big Impact” grant program in 2020 and is now in its fifth year of helping proposed projects move forward in rural and urban parts of the state. For more information, visit www.aarp.org/WIsdbi
