Three state and nonprofit funding opportunities are available to New Jersey communities interested in creating Complete and Green Streets and/or planning for resilience: the AARP Community Challenge and Resilient NJ.
2026 AARP Community Challenge
The AARP Community Challenge began in 2017, and since then, has awarded over $24 million to projects to accelerate change in communities and in particular benefit those age 50 and older.
Government entities and nonprofit organizations with projects that align with AARP’s mission to serve people fifty and older are eligible to apply.
Flagship grants may award up to $15,000 for eligible projects that benefit residents, especially those over 50 years old. Eligible project categories include creating vibrant public spaces like parks and community amenities, expanding walkability, bikeability, and transit access; and strengthening disaster resilience, among other priorities.
Capacity-Building Microgrants may award $2,500 for eligible projects, including walk audits, bike audits, and disaster preparedness training programs and resources for residents, among other priorities.
Community Challenge Demonstration grants may award up to $25,000 for eligible projects that enhance pedestrian safety, among other priorities.
Applications for the AARP Community Challenge are due at 5 p.m. on March 4, with projects to be completed between June 24 and December 15.
For more information, visit: https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2026/2026-challenge.html
Communities that have participated in the NJTPA’s Complete Street Technical Assistance Program and Vibrant Places Program may benefit from this opportunity to advance the recommendations from these technical assistance programs.
Resilient NJ
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Resilient NJ program is providing another opportunity for New Jersey municipalities to apply to participate in collaborative regional planning efforts that support the development of regional resilience action plans.
This opportunity is open to all municipalities in all counties. Up to four regional teams will receive grants of up to $300,000 each to improve resilience in their communities.
Regional teams must include at least three contiguous municipalities and at least one community-based organization. These teams will be paired with multidisciplinary consulting teams to participate in a comprehensive planning process to develop regional resilience action plans.
Grant applications will be available in early 2026 with project kick off in fall/winter 2026. To receive notification of updates about this opportunity, visit:
Regional resilience plans in the NJTPA region have already been conducted in Northeastern New Jersey, Raritan River and Bay Communities, Long Beach Island, and along the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers in Monmouth County.
If your community is interested in resources related to Complete and Green Streets as well as Resilience Hubs, contact Carrie Martin, Principal Planner, Resilience Planning, at CMartin@njtpa.org.