AARP Testifies on Beacon Hill to Support Safer Streets for All Ages

AARP is supporting legislation to make Massachusetts streets safer for pedestrians, whether they’re older residents or people who just need a little extra time to cross the street.

An Act to Improve Pedestrian,House Bill 3804 and Senate Bill 2419 aims to make Massachusetts roads safer by allowing municipalities to assess critical crosswalks and extend pedestrian signal times.

Antron Watson, AARP Massachusetts’ Age-Friendly Director, testified in front of the Joint Committee On Transportation Tuesday, June 24 with the sponsor of HB 3408 Representative Tommy Vitolo - 15^th Norfolk. They urged lawmakers to support the legislation.

“Everyone is a pedestrian at some point in the day,” Watson reminded the committee. “Pedestrians are completely unprotected and most vulnerable to serious injuries when walking in urban areas, crossing busy streets, and navigating traffic.”

AARP’s testimony emphasized that livable communities- those with safe, accessible streets—benefit everyone.

The proposed legislation would require cities and towns to identify crosswalks frequently used by slower-walking individuals and adjust signal timing accordingly. This simple change could save lives and help older adults remain active and independent.

Pedestrian fatalities are on the rise. In 2021, over 7,400 pedestrians were killed nationwide—the highest number in four decades. Many of these deaths are preventable with better infrastructure and smarter traffic policies.

Massachusetts is aging rapidly. By 2030, adults aged 60 and over will outnumber those under 20 for the first time in state history. As this demographic shift continues, the need for age-friendly infrastructure becomes more urgent.

“AARP urges you to pass House Bill No.3804/Senate Bill No. 2419 – An Act to Improve Pedestrian Safety,” said Watson. “If passed the bill would give municipalities the option to assess critical crosswalk locations and extend the timing signals, making the roadways safer for all.”