MCH served as the backdrop for a new initiative by AARP New York to highlight ideal conditions for pedestrian safety and assist the community in reporting trouble areas, especially for the elderly, and those using wheelchairs or canes, to local leaders.
The organization held a press conference in November with the Monroe County Office for the Aging, Reconnect Rochester, and local media on the MCH campus. AARP was joined by MCH residents and staff to cross East Henrietta Road and spotlight areas serving as models for pedestrian safety.
The event was part of a statewide kickoff that encouraged residents in various communities to observe and document conditions that promote pedestrian safety.
To help, AARP created a toolkit allowing pedestrians to assess and rate sidewalks, roads, crossing signals, and overall walkability of areas.
For example, the toolkit asks participants whether a curb has a ramp, if a sidewalk is wide enough for two people (5 feet), and if crossing signals are functional, among several other things.
The audit concluded in December, with AARP planning to share its findings with elected officials this winter. Those interested in learning more can visit https://states.aarp.org/new-york/ny-walks.