Cedar Rapids Joins AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities

Cedar Rapids Joins AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities

The City of Cedar Rapids has joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, joining approximately 400 other communities across the country who are committed to making their communities livable for residents of all ages, from the cradle through retirement.

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities provides member communities with the resources to become more age-friendly by tapping into national and global research, planning models and best practices. Launched in April 2012, the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities is an independent affiliate of the World Health Organization Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

Currently 14 percent of Cedar Rapids’ population is age 65 or older. Livability is a theme that underpins City efforts across departments. A brief history of Cedar Rapids’ livability efforts that support aging in place includes:

• Adoption of a new Pedestrian Master Plan in 2019 that helps identify priority sidewalk infrastructure and strategies to improve walkability.
• Since 2015, 24 Parks and Recreation sites have been made ADA compliant, including Ushers Ferry, Old MacDonald’s Farm, Tait Cummings Sports Complex, and various neighborhood parks.
• Since 2015, completion of approximately 2,400 curb ramps to meet ADA standards for a more accessible, inclusive community. 
• Cedar Rapids has been named a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community since 2012, and was designated a bronze-level Walk Friendly Community in 2019.
• Cedar Rapids joined Healthy Hometown network in 2018. 
• Cedar Rapids established the Wellbeing Advisory Committee in 2016.
• Cedar Rapids became the 15th certified Blue Zones Community® in 2016.
• Adoption of the Comprehensive Plan – EnvisionCR – in 2015, which takes into account connectivity, pedestrian infrastructure, land use, public transit, and accessibility. 
• Adoption of a Complete Streets policy in 2014 that encourages roadway design that supports all users: people driving cars, riding bikes, walking, or using public transportation. 
• Adoption of a Comprehensive Trails Master Plan in 2012, which prioritizes a trails network accessible within a ten minute walk for every household in Cedar Rapids.