Chelmsford, Massachusetts Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
5/10/2019

Lead Agency: Chelmsford Senior Center

Senior/Community Center

Action Plan Download

An action plan is based on the results of community surveys identifying needs within the 8 Domains of Livability that influence the health and quality of life of older adults. While there is flexibility in how a plan is created and what it will do, every action plan includes a statement about what can be achieved, target dates for goal completion, identification of participating organizations and indicators to measure progress. The action plan is an "active" rather than static document. Revisions and amendments are a sign of program improvement and progress.

Action Plan Highlights

  1. Housing

    Develop additional housing options for older adutls by creating a comprehensive plan to address housing shortages, executing a land inventory to indentify parcels that are appropriate for new older adult housing development, and advocating for zoning bylaws that support the development of additional housing options.

  2. Transportation

    Establish a volunteer transportation program that provides rides for older adults and residents with disabilities.

  3. Outdoor Spaces

    Create a more welcoming downtown environment for older adults by ensuring that signage to local amenities is visible, and appropriate outdoor lighting, seating, railings, and shelter exist.

Progress Report

Since completing its age-friendly action plan, the Town of Chelmsford has achieved several goals related to welcoming public spaces, mobility and housing affordability. The town created a new pocket park and sensory garden at the local senior center. And to help older adults stay active, a walking look received age-friendly exercise equipment. The community launched a new volunteer driver program, called ChelmsfordRIDE, which provides rides to and from medical appointments. Additionally, the town expanded its affordable housing stock, with 51 units renovated, more than 100 rental assistance vouchers distributed and a new partnership with the local Habitat for Humanity organization to provide home repair assistance to homeowners.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Chelmsford Public Library (2022)

Chelmsford, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2022

Project Category: Inclusive public space improvements

Description: Organizers with the Chelmsford Public Library set out to recognize indigenous peoples' contributions throughout local history. To do this, the library installed informational kiosks. Additionally, they constructed five freestanding mini free libraries along local walking paths. To further engage residents, they also hosted educational programing focusing on arts and history.

Bike Connector Inc. (2024)

Lowell, MA

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024

Project Category: Bikeability

Description: This project will provide older adults with free refurbished bicycles, as well as maintenance, repair, riding skills and safety instruction at a one-day event. Participants will also receive a bike helmet, lock and lights.

ABOUT THE AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE

Launched in 2017, the annual AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to local governments and nonprofits in order to fund quick-action, ready-to-implement projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages.

See all nearby projects

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AARP Massachusetts State Office

One Beacon Street
Suite 2301
Boston, MA 02108
United States

Phone: 866-448-3621
Fax: 617-723-4224
Email: [email protected]