WILTON – A new gazebo on the Stony Brook Riverwalk will be funded by a $17,000 Community Challenge Grant from AARP.

The award was announced June 28.

The gazebo, to be located on the riverbank in the police station parking area, will be handicapped accessible and serve as a gathering spot in downtown Wilton and as the home base of a new Wilton Senior Citizens’ Science Program.

For residents aged 50 and older, the WSCS will train individuals to observe wildlife and catalog findings for the Conservation Commission’s Natural Resource Inventory. Research has shown that such scientific activity has numerous health benefits for seniors as well as encouraging interaction with fellow nature lovers and a sense of accomplishment.

This year’s Community Challenge Grant process was the most competitive ever, with 3.600 applications and 310 granted nationwide. Only five grants were awarded in New Hampshire.

AARP’s state director Christina FitzPatrick noted the town’s commitment to its older citizens. “The Riverwalk Gazebo and Senior Citizens Science Program will undoubtedly create a meaningful and enjoyable experience for the residents, while also contributing to the conservation efforts of the area.”

In addition to the grant, the Wilton Alliance, a new non-profit organization dedicated to investing in the future of Wilton, will be contributing funds to support the program.

Selectboard Chairman Matt Fish expressed gratitude for the grant stating. “The Community Challenge Grant from AARP is a significant milestone for our town. The project will not only enhance the Riverwalk and downtown area but also empower our seniors to actively participate in scientific observation and conservation efforts.”

The gazebo is the latest step in a multi-year effort spearheaded by the Economic Development Committee Team that began in 2017. It has created paths and benches along both sides of Stony Brook, aided in refurbishing Memorial Park, and placed river view signs along Main Street. The gazebo will provide needed shade and a welcoming picnic space for all residents. For more information go to https:/www.wilton.gov/riverwalk.

The gazebo is to be constructed this summer.

The Wilton Senior Citizens Science Program is now beginning recruitment of participants. For more information, contact Jennifer Beck at jenniferscottbeck@gmasil.com.

The next phase of the Riverwalk is a concert pavilion to be built at the back of the parking area.

The Community Challenge Grant Program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities Initiative which helps communities become great places for residents of all ages. A map of all projects in New Hampshire is viewable at www.aarp.org/livable.

An earlier grant from AARP helped construct the paths along Stony Brook.