AARP Hawaii: TOD Paves the Way to Greater Access
By Audrey Suga-NakagawaAs the Honolulu City Council wrestles with the proposed mass transit system, AARP is supporting legislation that will have a farreaching impact on Oahu’s communities — and the elderly residents that live along the 20-mile route.
Bill 10, relating to transit-oriented development (TOD), is important because it paves the way for greater access to the transit system and offers other options for mobility. AARP Hawaii supports TOD as a way to build livable, healthy communities that give all residents the opportunity to age in place. A successful TOD plan would include safe walkways for pedestrians, bike lanes and buses as well as open space, community hubs and affordable housing.
On the Mainland TOD has revitalized neighborhoods and helped create a desirable mix of commercial, cultural, educational, government and community services, which are vital elements of a healthy community. Such communities are desirable places to live, work and play for people of all ages — and are especially supportive of older people.
Bill 10 has been deferred by the City Council to allow more deliberation and input from the City Administration. AARP Hawaii will continue to monitor and support this legislation as the mass transit project moves forward.
Audrey Suga-Nakagawa is a specialist on aging issues and community outreach on temporary assignment with AARP Hawaii. She is a past president of the Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society.
(Reprinted from AARP Hawaii State Newsletter, Summer 2008)