AARP: Empire State Trail Would Boost NY’s Attractiveness for All Ages

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Key to Efforts to Make NY First ‘Age-Friendly’ State

ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel issued the following statement today about Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to establish the Empire State Trail, which would create the largest multi-use trail network in the nation:

“Creating accessible trails throughout the state boosts New York’s attractiveness for people of all ages. The Governor’s proposal to create bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly on-road enhancements and connections would enable millions of New Yorkers – from both urban and rural communities – to access community space for walking, biking and jogging.

“Fresh air and physical activity help combat chronic health problems such as obesity and diabetes, and creating safe trails would help decrease injuries and fatalities to pedestrians and bicyclists.

“The Empire State Trail fits with the mission shared by AARP and the Governor to make New York the first state in the nation to join the AARP and World Health Organization Network of Age Friendly Communities. This trail would make New York an even more attractive place to live – and retire - for all residents.”

Contact: Erik Kriss, ekriss@aarp.org

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AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name.  As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

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