Livable Communities

ASHEVILLE -- Broadway Street, in downtown Asheville, follows an ancient Native American trade route , so it is entirely fitting that a new kind of outdoor meeting place will be coming to this street in 2021. The Center for Craft is working in collaboration with members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (ECBI) to create a public art parklet “to preserve and advance the important craft legacy of western North Carolina.”

ASHEVILLE -- Accessory Dwelling Units — commonly known as backyard bungalows, garage apartments and so-called granny flats — are small homes that exist on the same property lot as a single-family residence. Not only are these housing options important for family caregivers who want their loved ones to live nearby, their popularity is growing in crowded urban areas where land is scarce and expensive.

AARP recognizes social isolation as a critical health issue for seniors. While staying at home and practicing social distancing to slow the spread of COVID, many seniors are finding themselves more isolated than ever before. That is why AARP North Carolina is focusing on some efforts being made to combat social isolation and break a "digital divide."

“Aging in place” is a popular concept among seniors these days. A 2018 AARP poll showed 3 in 4 older adults (50+) want to live at home as long as they possibly can. That’s great for people with homes, but what about homeless seniors, or homeowners threatened with foreclosure, or renters facing eviction?

AARP grants to help, cities, towns, and rural areas make improvements

What does “aging in place” mean to you? The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines it as "the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level." AARP supports aging in place as one of eight domains that make a community age-friendly.

The NC Transit System is a vital link to keep our communities strong. Here is how the system was flexible to help the state respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Let’s paint a picture of Southern charm on our roads. Can’t you just picture the watercolor “Summer Southern Avenue” -- Spanish moss dripping down from the gnarly branches of a majestic live oak, porches lined with rocking chairs, punctuated by a lilting “how ya’ beens?!” from those sitting in them? Bicyclists and motorists are stopped like toy soldiers behind marked crosswalks as pedestrians smile and wave while crossing.

MOUNT AIRY, NC -- Preparing for an aging population that continues to grow, the City of Mount Airy, NC, joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities to improve domains of livability that benefit residents of all ages. By joining this network, the city will work on improvements in transportation options, access to health care, the use of open spaces, social inclusion and more.

As we live through these uncertain times where people are beginning to question the safety and sustainability of a globalized food system, a silver lining has emerged. People are beginning to turn towards their communities and are recognizing the importance of local food.