Newton on the Move: Leading the Way in Walkability and Age-Friendly Living

AARP Massachusetts gathered community leaders in Newtonville to assess the walkability of the neighborhood around the new Cooper Center for Active Living.

Among the elected leaders taking part in the walk audit were US Rep. Jake Auchincloss, Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Massachusetts State Representative Amy Sangiolo, Newton City Council President Marc Laredo, Newton City Councilor Becky Grossman, Newton Chief of Police George McMains, along with staff members from the Newton Office of Older Adult Services

The group walked around the center of Newtonville to the commuter rail station, looking for areas that might cause problems for people, from street crossings to mobility issues.

Representative Auchincloss and Mayor Fuller both discussed funding approved to improve the commuter rail station. Currently, there is only a staircase to one platform at the station. The $50 million project will replace Newtonville’s current station with a fully accessible facility that will include level-boarding platforms, elevators, and a pedestrian bridge leading to a new Washington Street plaza.

“Developed with federal, state, and local funds, we’re going to get reliable and accessible rail that the people of Newton deserve,” said Rep. Auchincloss.

Auchincloss praised the city’s work to make Newton’s streets walkable for everyone. He said the work should be replicated on the national level and pointed to legislation he has introduced.

“We need the Federal Complete Streets Act passed,” said Auchincloss. “Which basically orients our Department of Transportation away from the Department of Highways, which it basically is right now, to the Department of Mobility."

A “Complete Street” ensures safe, accessible travel for all—especially children, seniors, and people with disabilities—by prioritizing infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users. The bill mandates that future road projects be designed for everyone’s safety.

Mayor Fuller, whose term as mayor is ending, discussed the work the city has done to achieve walkability and highlighted how the community has come together and worked with the state to obtain funding for projects.

With clipboards and audit sheets, the group scoured the area and took notes. AARP is compiling the information and will soon have a report.

Walk audits are simple yet impactful tools used by local governments, community organizations, and residents to:

• Inspire pedestrian-friendly street design.
• Reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
• Increase opportunities for exercise and social interaction.
• Boost property values.
• Empower residents to advocate for change.

 “Walk audits are a powerful way to bring residents and decision-makers together at the start of making changes, helping identify real solutions that support aging in place, community health, and safer streets.” Said Antron Watson, AARP Massachusetts Age-Friendly Director.

 AARP Livable Communities supports neighborhoods, towns, cities, and rural areas in becoming great places for people of all ages. We believe communities should offer safe, walkable streets; age-friendly housing and transportation options; access to essential services; and chances for residents of all ages to engage in community life.