AARP Iowa announced today that HIRTA is one of four organizations in the state that will receive a 2022 Community Challenge grant. This nationwide program allows grantees to implement projects that will help communities become more livable.

HIRTA will be installing ADA-compliant, bilingual benches and signage at certain stops in the city of Perry. A deviated flex bus route will be added in addition to the current service. This will allow people to catch a bus at several designated areas to enhance access to healthcare, employment, shopping, education and community services, such as the food pantry or financial assistance. Fare-free rides will be available to healthcare and other essential services to those who qualify for transportation assistance.

Julia Castillo, Executive Director, said, “HIRTA’s vision statement outlines that we strive to make a positive difference by enhancing community livability. This grant allows us to better the community and further our inclusion efforts. We look forward to putting bus benches and bilingual signs to reduce the transportation barriers in the city of Perry. HIRTA would like to thank AARP for their support.”

This project was made possible for the community due to the generous support of AARP. The AARP Community Challenge is a grant program to make tangible improvements in communities that jump-start long-term change. It is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/livable.