Grant Improves Rural Community's Downtown

Downtown Vinita, a rural community of 5,700, has become more hospitable to pedestrians, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the AARP Community Challenge program.

The improvements boost the safety and walkability of Vinita’s historic Route 66 Main Street.

The grant is part of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, which helps improve cities and towns for residents of all ages. This year the program awarded $1.3 million to 129 localities and organizations across the country.

“The city of Vinita’s innovative approach to revitalize their downtown area and historic Route 66 corridor truly embodies our Livable Communities initiative,” said Sean Voskuhl, AARP Oklahoma state director.

“We applaud their efforts to create a desirable public space to make their community a safer place to walk and bike while preserving the community’s historic buildings and cultural assets.”