Livable Communities

While 2020 was a year filled with uncertainty, municipalities and community organizations across Washington still managed to put older residents’ needs front and center. We welcomed two cities - Tacoma and Renton - to the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, joining our previous cities of Seattle and Puyallup. Several non-profit agencies also received grants to address crucial pandemic-related issues, such as food insecurity and telehealth.

From ride sharing to telehealth, funding focuses on community needs during COVID.

Much of the Tacoma’s work focuses on pedestrian safety, rising rents and limited public transit. Last year it did major sidewalk repairs and installed hundreds of curb ramps.

Application Deadline extended until mid-May

A commitment to make the city more livable for people of all ages and abilities

Undergoing a livability audit helped with improvements such as better signage and walkways.

On a Saturday morning at the Olympia Senior Center, Linda Terry, the founder of Sharing Teens and Elders Project (STEP) is welcoming long-time and new participants for the day’s events. Committed volunteers are putting out snacks and coffee, while sneaking in praises for Linda’s unwavering dedication to bridge generations and foster a bond between elders and a caring group of local teens.

Community projects in Seattle, Olympia, and Renton are recognized for their efforts to create more livable communities in AARP's " Where We Live: Communities for All Ages" 3rd edition. Our Washington communities are among more than 100 articles that feature the many ways communities across the nation are becoming great places to live for people of all ages.

Communities across Washington are working each and every day to become more livable for residents of all ages.

What does it take to change behavior behind the wheel?