Portland’s Engagement Opportunities: Mobility, Infrastructure and Age-Friendly Practices

Your voice and experience is a key part of Portland’s livability as an age-friendly community. AARP Oregon encourages and invites your active engagement on the following local advocacy opportunities.

After a change to the city charter by voters in 2022 which changed the form of government, Portlanders have elected the current leaders to use district representation and council committees to govern. There are now new opportunities to participate in local deliberations and AARP Oregon invites community members, advocates and local leaders from all sectors to engage in shaping a future where everyone - regardless of age or ability - can move safely through their neighborhoods; confidently participate in what life offers and to choose how to age in community.

AARP Oregon asked Portland City Council to reaffirm its commitment to Vision Zero after years of rising fatalities on our roads. Adults over 65 are more likely to suffer serious injury or death when a crash occurs. On September 17, 2025 Portland City Council unanimously passed resolution (number 37716) to reaffirm the City's commitment to Vision Zero and convene a cross-bureau Vision Zero Task Force. Ask about task force meetings as well as request free Vision Zero stickers, pins, brochures and flyers by contacting: visionzero@portlandoregon.gov

Transportation systems are central to delivering walkable neighborhoods, accessible transit, and safe biking routes to ensure everyone can stay mobile, connected, and independent as they age.

Learn how to report issues such as unsafe or lacking infrastructure that you think could be improved for pedestrians, people biking or taking transit. Use PDX Reporter or call 3-1-1. Details here: Report non-urgent traffic safety concerns | Portland.gov. Remember, people tend to outlive their ability to drive by 7 to 11 years, depending on gender. Portland needs your input.

If you are interested in meeting new people who are choosing to live and age in Portland, consider volunteering with AARP Oregon. We will emphasize various areas of age-friendly practices that the city of Portland works on through policymaking in council committees as well as in planning processes such as the 2045 Transportation System Plan (TSP) underway now. You can view https://youtu.be/MvWR-zmky-8?si=p4PfeCDl5NLvmHDb for an explanation of the TSP plan update process. The Transportation & Infrastructure committee is headed by Chair Olivia Clark, District 4 City Councilor and Vice-Chair Angelita Morillo, District 3 City Councilor. Their proceedings are available on City Council’s channels as described here: Transportation and Infrastructure Committee | Portland.gov

Let’s show up for Portland. Express your interest here: oraarp@aarp.org. Attention: Stacey Triplett, Engagement Director.