Groton, Connecticut Print
Joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network:
10/22/2021
Lead Agency: Town of Groton Office of Planning and Development,
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
Housing
In collaboration with the Groton Housing Authority and local municipal teams, there's a concerted effort to promote Senior housing development. Assistance is provided on housing applications through a dedicated benefits coordinator. Zoning laws are undergoing amendments to allow for co-housing and cooperative housing, authorize the establishment of multiple accessory dwelling units based on certain criteria, support the expansion of mobile home parks, and elevate the design standards for multifamily dwellings. Additionally, educational initiatives and informational brochures are being rolled out, emphasizing home modifications for aging comfortably, such as the integration of ramps and grab bars.Outdoor Spaces
Endorse the Parks Master Plan, emphasizing the maintenance of existing parks while pioneering new communal areas like the "Town Green" and pedestrian paths. Urban infrastructure is receiving a boost with the addition of bus shelters, benches, wayfinding signs, and shade-providing street trees. The urban landscape will also be enhanced with aesthetically appealing location signs. A significant push is being made to ensure sidewalks are safer and more connected, with a highlight on linking Thrive55+ to the Groton Community Center via Rt 1. There's also an advocacy in place for the establishment of an indoor warm-water pool. Open spaces with trails are under review, aiming to strategize and develop more user-friendly paths that offer sufficient parking, suitable trail surfaces, and resting benches. Lastly, town buildings are being evaluated for handicap accessibility, with audits in the pipeline to devise plans for vital upgrades.Transportation
Bolster shuttle services, catering to events, church gatherings, and more. Adopt Complete Streets policies, which emphasize a comprehensive transportation approach. The Town/City is revising regulations to ensure sidewalks span at least 6 feet in width. To better address community needs, a survey is being conducted to gauge residents' satisfaction and requirements regarding transportation, access, and safety. Initiatives are underway to unify bike lane and sidewalk projects across the town, aiming for a more expansive network. In collaboration with SEAT, the focus is on enhancing bus services and rejuvenating bus shelters. Furthermore, a public transit day is being organized, complete with resources for a broad user base and e-bike showcases. Financial provisions are being made to compensate senior shuttle drivers, facilitating greater event coverage. Simultaneously, staff workshops are planned to identify prime spots for streetscape additions and crucial infrastructure improvements.