Just ROLL with It: What a City’s Infrastructure Says about How It Values Young Families and Older Adults

Walkers are encouraged to bring their families with strollers/rollators/wagons/balance bikes to follow a route from the bus stop to the library to experience the opportunities and challenges along the way for residents and visitors who roll around downtown Westbrook. Conversation along the stroll will share the minimum requirements under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Maine building codes, to Age Friendly programs, lessons learned and best practices to make main streets more welcoming for families with young children and older adults. Do downtowns work families who cannot or choose not to drive, for nursing mothers, families who need access to restrooms, changing station/tables, families who need a place to rest, a place to get cool or stay warm, places to socialize and connect with neighbors, are the sidewalks maintained during the winter to the same level as the streets, secure bike racks, pedestrian level lighting to feel safe, and is it fun? Are communities and businesses sharing the message of what is available for families on main streets to know if it will work for them when they visit? Are municipalities providing funding opportunities and incentives to encourage better access for pedestrians? The route will review existing conditions and alterations of sidewalks, business entrances, public spaces, and temporary events that impact our main streets to make sure that families of all ages are engaged in our communities and thriving downtowns.