Elmira, New York Print

Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
8/12/2013

Lead Agency: Chemung County Department of Aging and Long Term Care Services

Government Agency

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. Transportation

    Promote safe, accessible, and cost-effective transportation options for non-drivers, through pedestrian walkways, private taxi services, volunteer-based rideshare programs, expansion of existing health-based transportation programs, and new bicycle routes with secure bicycle racks.

  2. Respect and Inclusion

    Increase public awareness of and participation in local congregate meal programs.

  3. Health and Community Services

    Provide caregiver respite services that accept multiple payment mechanisms, including adult daycare programs, homecare providers, and short-term facility-based providers.

Progress Report Download

Chemung County's age-friendly progress report describes the community's work to improve civic participation and employment, transportation and public spaces. The community developed a guidebook to creating age-friendly businesses, as well as an age-friendly business designation, which recognized more than 30 local businesses. Additionally, the County published a resource guide to available transportation options. As part of downtown revitalization efforts, the City of Elmira -- the county's largest community -- used a $10 million state grant to renovate commercial and residential buildings, improve downtown connectivity and increase walkability. Relatedly, the Chemung County is also establishing a land bank to repurpose vacant properties.

Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects

Downtown Ithaca Alliance (2026)

Ithaca, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026

Project Category: Walk Audits

Description: Walk audits will examine sidewalk and crossing conditions near Ithaca’s downtown bus stations. Findings will inform design and placemaking efforts that support safer travel for older adults.

Love Living at Home (2025)

Ithaca, NY

AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025

Project Category: Disaster Preparedness

Description: Many older adults lacked clear guidance on how to prepare for emergencies. Love Living at Home offered six trainings in community sites and online, reaching nearly 300 people with step-by-step instruction and materials like checklists and backpacks. Participants later installed alarms, purchased extinguishers and organized emergency kits. The program strengthened ties with county partners and increased awareness of future trainings. One attendee said the presentations were "very informative and helpful...thank you for making this very important training available!"

Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.

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.

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