Building an Age-Friendly College Park: A Vision for Inclusive Aging

This week, the College Park City Council will receive an important update on the Age Friendly College Park initiative—an ambitious, resident-centered plan to make our city more livable and accessible for older adults. This initiative is part of a national movement under the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and aligns with the World Health Organization’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

The City of College Park joined the AARP Network in August 2021, and in 2022, launched its planning process through a collaboration between the Department of Youth, Family and Senior Services and consultant firm Justice and Sustainability Associates (JSA). The result is a draft five-year Age Friendly Action Plan that focuses on improving eight key domains of livability:

1. Outdoor Spaces and Buildings – Improve walkability and access to public buildings.

2. Transportation – Expand mobility options and ensure senior-friendly transit.

3. Housing – Support aging in place through accessible and affordable housing options.

4. Social Participation – Provide inclusive activities to reduce social isolation.

5. Respect and Social Inclusion – Celebrate the contributions of older residents.

6. Civic Participation and Employment – Promote leadership and employment opportunities for seniors.

7. Communication and Information – Ensure seniors can access City services and stay informed.

8. Community and Health Services – Improve access to medical and mental health services.

The planning process included a community survey, stakeholder interviews, and three community conversations. A key finding from these engagements was the desire of many residents to remain in College Park as they age, which emphasizes the importance of improving walkability, access to amenities, and reliable transportation.

Among the top issues identified were:

• Difficulty accessing some City buildings due to lack of automatic doors or steps without railings

• Lack of knowledge about available programs and services

• Interest in co-housing models and ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units)

• Barriers to participation in public meetings (e.g., lack of Zoom access or technology)

The presentation to the Council includes a proposed timeline for finalizing and launching the Action Plan. Following Council feedback, the City will continue community engagement and finalize the document for formal adoption later this year.

This initiative represents a long-term investment in ensuring College Park is a community where residents of all ages can thrive. The City thanks the many residents who contributed to the planning process and looks forward to continuing this work to create a more inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for older adults.

Stay tuned as the final Age Friendly Action Plan is released, and visit collegeparkmd.gov for updates and resources.