The City of Abbeville has been selected as a recipient of a 2026 AARP Community Challenge Grant, receiving $15,000 to support pedestrian safety improvements in the downtown area. The City was one of the few selected nationwide to receive funding through the 2026 AARP Community Challenge program.

The grant will fund the installation of solar-powered activated pedestrian crosswalk beacon systems designed to improve visibility, increase driver awareness, and create safer crossings for residents and visitors.

The project will focus on key pedestrian crossings in Abbeville’s downtown civic district, with priority given to high-foot-traffic areas surrounding the Vermilion Parish Courthouse. As a central hub for voting, public meetings, government services, and community events, this area experiences significant pedestrian activity throughout the year. The improvements will help create safer crossings and enhance walkability within the downtown district.

The AARP Community Challenge is a grant program that funds quick-action projects that make communities more livable for people of all ages. In 2026, AARP awarded grants to 750 organizations nationwide to support projects that improve public spaces, transportation, housing, digital connectivity, and other community assets.

“This project represents another investment in creating a safer, more walkable downtown for residents and visitors,” said Mayor Roslyn White. “By improving visibility at key crossings, we are helping make it easier and safer for people to access public services, local businesses, community events, and the places that make Abbeville special.”

The City has begun project implementation and ordered the necessary materials, with installation anticipated later this year.

This project was funded by a grant from AARP through the 2026 AARP Community Challenge program.