Renton Earns 'Age-Friendly City' Designation

Press release from the City of Renton:

October 21, 2020

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RENTON, WA – The City of Renton has been designated an “Age-Friendly City” by AARP and the World Health Organization (WHO). The designation recognizes Renton’s commitment to providing a livable community where all generations are valued, thrive and age with respect. Renton and Seattle are the only two cities in King County to earn the designation.

“We are honored to receive this designation,” said Mayor Armondo Pavone. “Our commitment to being an Age-Friendly City will help us make good decisions that benefit our community—regardless of age."

Older adults are a vital part of the fabric of Renton's neighborhoods and civic life. The number of Renton residents 65 and older is projected to more than double to over 1 in 5 by 2030. The importance of planning for this shift drove the timing and inspiration to apply for the Age-Friendly designation.

The designation starts a five-year process. The city will assess how it currently meets its residents' needs and identifies potential gaps and future actions. The focus is specifically on older residents and those with different abilities. The process will include residents, non-profit organizations, businesses, and faith-based communities from all parts of the city.

The process concludes with the development of an action plan demonstrating how the city will support the eight domains of livability identified by the WHO:

1) outdoor spaces and buildings;
2) transportation;
3) housing;
4) social participation;
5) respect and social inclusion;
6) civic participation and employment;
7) communication and information, and
8) community support and health service.

About the City of Renton

The City of Renton, Washington, with a population of 105,500 (2020), is located on the southeast shore of Lake Washington, just south of Seattle. Renton's strong economic base, diverse marketplace and favorable business climate have attracted the attention of nationally recognized companies that are providing employees and their families an outstanding quality of life. Renton is the home of Boeing, PACCAR, IKEA, the Seattle Seahawks, and the eternal resting place of Jimi Hendrix. More information can be found on our website, news releases, or Facebook, Twitter, and Nextdoor pages.

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This press release was produced by the City of Renton. The views expressed here are the author’s own.