WASHINGTON— AARP Executive Vice President for Social Impact Nancy LeaMond commended the partnership announced today by HUD, DOT and EPA to apply a series of "livability principles” to federal transportation, environmental protection and housing spending. AARP has long advocated for livable communities that have affordable and appropriate housing options, supportive community features and services, and adequate mobility options which together facilitate personal health independence and engagement in community life. LeaMond said:
”AARP applauds the shared vision for livable communities announced today by Transportation and HUD Secretaries LaHood and Donovan and EPA Administrator Jackson. It reflects an understanding that their plans and policies have to focus first on people. Putting into practice the goals the cabinet officers announced today – "to help improve access to affordable housing more transportation options, and lower transportation costs while protecting the environment in communities”-- could raise the quality of life for older Americans. Most people age 50+ want to stay in their homes for as long as possible and when they move they prefer to stay in the general area. But today substantial numbers report they can't safely cross their neighborhood's major streets; they find their public transportation inconvenient and their sidewalks inadequate and all too often affordable and accessible housing is unavailable nearby. The framework announced today could change that.”
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with over 35.5 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's 40 million members and Americans 50+; AARP Segunda Juventud, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and our website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Contact
Nancy Thompson
202-434-2667
nthompson@aarp.org
