Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#48)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Establish a $2 billion fund for grants to municipalities to make infrastructure upgrades and capital investments. The proposal includes requirements to encourage local support for capital projects and encourage individual action through community governance.
Justification
Grants can be used to fund infrastructure upgrades for older adults, enhancing accessibility in public buildings and transportation systems. These upgrades could include ramps, elevators, wider doorways, and tactile signage. Grants can also support health and wellness initiatives, such as age-friendly outdoor spaces and fitness equipment. Overall, implementing these measures will result in improved safety and inclusivity within communities that may not have been so before.
Full Proposal
Establish a $2 billion fund for grants to municipalities to make infrastructure upgrades, capital investments, and encourage individual action through community governance:
- Municipalities must provide matching funds up to a percentage of project costs to be determined.
- Applications must include a narrative detailing why the project targets or disproportionately impacts older adults and/or people with disabilities.
- Grants must be used for capital expenses; contemplated projects include affordable housing, transportation or digital infrastructure upgrades, senior centers or other similar community facilities and public gathering spaces, such as parks, trails and open spaces.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as long-term. Multiple state grant programs currently exist for this purpose. The MPA anticipates that the implementation of other proposals would make it easier for applicants to identify those programs for municipal investments. This proposal would have a substantial fiscal impact and any additional resources or funding allocations would be subject to the annual budget process and available resources.