City of Soda Springs Joins AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities

AARP Idaho is proud to announce the addition of Soda Springs into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. Other Idaho participants include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Malad City, Cascade, Preston, Montpellier, and Oneida County.

By enrolling into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, the City of Soda Springs commits to identifying the challenges of its aging population and the policies and programmatic solutions that can improve the quality of life for people of all ages. This process is in collaboration with residents and area stakeholders. Soda Springs will also gain access to national research, community networks, planning models and best practices to improve livability for all ages, abilities and needs.

The City of Soda Springs is inviting the public to a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, June 20 at 11:45am followed by a community workshop from noon to 2:00pm. Both events will take place at the Soda Springs City Hall and a light lunch will be served to attendees. Participants will have the opportunity to hear about this new program while providing input on the issues important to them and their families.

“This is a great time for the City of Soda Springs to take these steps to evaluate our community's future needs. Being an age-friendly community is an honor and will provide our city the opportunity to make a plan for our future for everyone ages 8 to 80,” said Soda Springs Mayor Austin Robinson.

“This initiative will help make Soda Springs a great place to grow up and grow old,” said AARP Idaho state director Lupe Wissel. “Like the other network participants, this program will be a significant, comprehensive and challenging effort, yet will provide immense benefits to the residents of Soda Springs.”

The Network of Age Friendly States and Communities helps cities become even better places to live by adopting such features as walkable streets; increased housing and transportation options; improved access to services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community activities. Well-designed, livable communities promote health and sustain economic growth, while continuing to make residents of all ages happier and healthier.

About the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
Established in April 2012, membership in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities,  does not mean AARP is endorsing any of the following municipalities as a place to live. Nor does it mean the community or state listed is currently "age-friendly." What membership does means is that the community's elected leadership has made the commitment to actively work toward making their town, city, county, or state