Why are so few cities, towns and neighborhoods in the United States walkable? Why is it so difficult to find vibrant communities where people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds can live, work, shop and play?

The answer, in many locations, is that zoning codes and land use ordinances have made the creation of such places illegal. In some communities, the lack of walkability, opportunity and livability stems from zoning and development decisions that intentionally separated people by race, faith, ethnicity or income.

AARP, a nonprofit representing the interests of the 50-plus age group that claims 38 million members, published a new report on zoning reform to create more walkable communities. Enabling Better Places: A Handbook for Improved Neighborhoods, was cowritten with the Congress for New Urbanism.

On February 9th, Danielle Arigoni, Director of AARP Livable Communities, will be joining ULI Oklahoma to share how to make incremental changes to zoning and land-use ordinances to build or retrofit neighborhoods and urban centers. The recommendations—unlike form-based codes (FBCs) and other complete zoning overhauls—can be implemented one at a time.

We'll also be joined by representatives from AARP Oklahoma to discuss their work to provide safe, walkable streets, age-friendly housing and transportation options, access to needed services, and opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in community life.