Discussion to focus on mobility issues and Westchester 2025

A conference to identify and develop solutions to mobility issues that affect seniors in Westchester communities will take place Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the County Center in White Plains.

The conference, open to both professionals and the public, will focus on solutions to current mobility situations and take a long-range view in the context of the Westchester 2025 plan. The plan is a blueprint to help the county government and its 45 local municipalities work together and speak with one regional voice.

Mobility is a quality of life issue. We want to alert people to the challenges and opportunities mobility presents and encourage innovative ideas. 

County officials at the conference will be the County Executive, County Clerk Tim Idoni; Richard Stiller, director of operations with the Department of Transportation; and William Brady, an associate planner with the Department of Planning. 

The program is presented by Westchester County’s Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS), and the department’s Older Driver Family Assistance Network will also take part. 

Charles Gandy, AARP’s national expert on walkability surveys and issues, who has conducted numerous walkability tours throughout the U.S., will be among the speakers. William Stoner and Michael Olender, both AARP associate state directors in  New York, will take part in the discussion.

DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter said that mobility is an important issue for seniors.

“Being able to get around to take care of things in your life as well as to be in contact with your neighbors and friends is key to a decent life,” Carpenter said. “It lets people stay civically involved and avoid isolation. Mobility is essential to create livable communities.”