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Lessons From Livability Leaders

Using videos, webinars, panel discussions and more, livability experts share their expertise with AARP, local leaders and anyone who wants to learn how a community can be more livable for people of all ages


spinner image Livable Lessons Instructors
Lessons led by experts: (top row) Eli Spevak, Andrew Howard, Beth Osborne, (bottom row) Christopher Coes, Lynn Richards, Gil Penalosa, Patrice Frey
COURTESY PHOTOS

AARP Livable Communities works with experts in housing, transportation, public spaces, community engagement, economic development and more to provide guidance and specialized assistance to AARP staff and local leaders nationwide.

Learn about the work that's been done on-the-ground in locations throughout the country — and take a deeper dives into livability topics.

"Accessory Dwelling Units"
Eli Spevak, a builder and advocate for community-oriented housing that’s both affordable and environmentally-friendly, discusses the importance of and need for ADUs

 

"Commercial District Design"
Patrice Frey of Main Street America explains how to bolster local downtowns and commercial districts during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond

 

"Equitable Development"
Community design and development expert Christopher Coes explains how equity can guide the creation of better neighborhoods and cities

 

"Incremental Zoning Code Reform"
Lynn Richards, the former president and CEO of the Congress for the New Urbanism, explains how simple changes in zoning, codes and land development regulations can lead to better neighborhoods 

 

"Older People in Cities"
Urban planning expert Gil Penalosa demonstrates how equitable and sustainable cities can work for 8-year-olds and 80-year-olds

 

"Placemaking Lessons"
Public spaces planner Andrew Howard explains what makes a “successful place” and how communities can (and sometimes should) implement placemaking projects despite the COVID-19 pandemic

 

"Transportation Lessons"
Beth Osborne, the director of Transportation for America, talks about creating safe streets and mobility options for all community members — and how to advocate for and fund transportation solutions

 

"Universal Design"
Richard Duncan of the RL Mace Universal Design Institute explains how a home can be designed for people of all ages and life stages

 

"Winter Placemaking"
Jayne Armstrong and Amanda O’Rourke of 8 80 Cities explain how communities of all sizes can encourage inclusive outdoor programming and placemaking when it's cold (even freezing) outside

More Lessons

Quick recaps of AARP expert-led trainings and workshops.

More from AARP.org/Livable

 Use the dropdown to choose a livability topic.

Information and inspiration for local leaders