AARP Pennsylvania Works to Make Pittsburgh a Livable Community for All Ages

AARP PA

When city and county leaders in Pittsburgh decide on important initiatives - ranging from street safety to affordable housing to supporting local caregivers - AARP Pennsylvania consistently urges them to keep in mind our 1.8 million members across the state and our 156 thousand members throughout Pittsburgh.

Last year was especially meaningful for AARP Pittsburgh staff and volunteers, as they engaged in conversations and collaborated with public officials and community partners to enact changes that benefited Pittsburghers 50-plus and their families.

For AARP, making Pittsburgh a more livable community is key and our approach involves:

• Engaging, educating and empowering our volunteers and all Pittsburghers so that their voices are heard as they advocate for positive change that helps everyone age in place.
• Working closely with local elected officials, key decision makers, stakeholders, and neighbors to plan and enact community improvements that support older adults and people of all ages.

Below is a summary of local advocacy successes in Pittsburgh during 2024.

Vision Zero

AARP Pennsylvania partnered with the Pittsburgh Mayor’s Office and City Council to adopt a Vision Zero policy, a global movement to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. Drawing on input from AARP volunteers and participation in the City’s Complete Streets Advisory Group, AARP Pennsylvania shared resources that highlight the importance of safe streets for all. After submitting a letter of support, the policy was formally adopted by the City in March 2024.

Automated Red Light Enforcement

To bolster Vision Zero goals and address traffic safety challenges identified by volunteers during local walk audits, AARP Pennsylvania supported a resolution to implement Automated Red Light Enforcement in Pittsburgh. In 2022, 23 people—including seven pedestrians—lost their lives in car crashes in the city. In September 2023, Pittsburgh City Council voted unanimously to authorize automated enforcement to improve safety on local roads.

Recognizing Non-Drivers

AARP Pennsylvania co-sponsored the first local Week Without Driving PGH initiative alongside Pittsburghers for Public Transit, Access Mob Pittsburgh, and BikePGH, with more than 20 other organizational partners. The Week Without Driving is a nationwide effort that highlights the experiences of non-drivers and encourages better mobility options for everyone. Pittsburgh City Council issued a local proclamation to mark the event, and a press conference was held with the Mayor and County Executive.

Affordable Housing and Traffic Safety Commitments

Throughout 2024, AARP Pennsylvania connected with city leadership during community listening sessions and submitted letters of support for several proposed budget allocations. Passed at the end of the year, these allocations:

• Fund ongoing Vision Zero projects to enhance traffic safety.
• Expand affordable and accessible housing options, promoting the desire for residents to remain in their homes as they age.
• Support the Pittsburgh Prosperity Project, which provides assistance to workers who face employment barriers, especially those who also manage responsibilities like adult day care, respite, and family caregiving.

To learn more about AARP Pennsylvania’s efforts in Pittsburgh—or to explore volunteer opportunities—contact:

Colleen Cadman at ccadman@aarp.org.