MADISON, WI – Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway’s proposed zoning changes serve as a critical step toward creating more inclusive, age-friendly communities, AARP Wisconsin State Director Martha Cranley said this morning after the mayor announced her plan at a press conference.
“Zoning reforms that promote housing diversity and accessibility are essential to empowering older adults,” Cranley said. “These changes help reduce barriers to aging in place and ensure that people of all ages and abilities can find safe, affordable homes that meet their needs.”
AARP supports policies that expand housing choices so older residents who have contributed to their community for years feel comfortable remaining there.
According to AARP’s latest Home and Community Preferences Survey, 75% of Americans aged 50-plus express a desire to stay in their current homes and 73% in their communities for as long as possible. However, nearly half feel their communities may not meet their needs as they age, and 44% anticipate having to relocate.
“We’ve heard these concerns firsthand, echoed throughout the Madison community, and see these reforms as an important step toward addressing those needs,” Cranley said. “AARP Wisconsin looks forward to working with city leaders and community advocates to ensure that these proposed changes lead to improvements in housing accessibility, affordability, and choice for people of all ages.”
