Sunday, April 7, 2013

Normal: Making Subdivisions More Aging-Friendly

This is an interesting article about making suburbs better for aging Baby Boomers. It discusses not only improving transit options for the agers to get to where they want to go, but also how to bring those places to the suburbs.

Normal doesn't have suburbs (maybe bedroom communities) but does have many subdivisions that are kind of spread out away from businesses. Even with the increasing number of residential developments for retirees in the area, it would be great to meet aging residents where they live. We have a good bus system and a wonderful walking/biking trail, but what about bringing goods and services to the subdivisions?

In order to build businesses in subdivisions (or really close by), zoning codes would need to be revised. I think a more flexible way to provide what the subdivisioners (of all ages) need and want is to have mobile versions of businesses. There have long been book mobiles and ice cream trucks. How about convenience store mobiles? Pharmacy mobiles? Home improvement mobiles? Electronic gadgets mobiles?

Great for residents and businesses, too!

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