Miami-Dade 2040 LRTP - Oct. 23, 2014

Social sustainability is perhaps the least formally defined sustainability principle. Social equity, social diversity, and quality of life are aspects of social sustainability and can be addressed, in part, by ensuring that public participation from all represented and underrepresented groups which are addressed through Environmental Justice and Title VI. Environmental sustainability is addressed through Miami-Dade’s GreenPrint. Economic Sustainability is maintained through the development of the Cost Feasible projects and by programming projects that foster economic competitiveness. Environmental Justice, as established through federal policy including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act is also an important facet of environmental sustainability and is covered in detail in Chapter 4. Title VI is a sweeping provision bolstered through other Executive Orders to prevent and ensure that there is no discrimination associated with the use of Federal funds. Aging Population Miami-Dade County has the largest population of persons 60 and over in Florida. According to the U.S. Census, almost 15% of Miami-Dade’s population in 2013 was 65 and over. Reliable and safe transportation through transit and safe walkable communities for the elderly population is essential to maintain independent living. As more seniors continue to drive highway features such as clear signing and lighting become especially important. The 2040 Plan considers the aging population, changing demographics and population growth. The plan considers the transportation system needs of all user groups and recognizes that there is an increasing demand for solutions and strategies spanning the broadest spectrum of users, vehicles, and modal choice preferences. One way to plan for and accommodate different users is by providing solutions and options that work for those who have the greatest needs. By reaching out to citizens and communities, as well as providing for numerous public meeting forums, the MPO made age friendly transportation a high priority. The incorporation of older adult needs is a vital step in the development of the LRTP. Additional transportation support and services are often necessary to meet the mobility needs of travelers who experience declining abilities and the means of independent transportation. The transportation infrastructure and mobility network outlined by the 2040 Plan provides a strategic framework that supports equal access and availability for all users and in no way discriminates against users based on their age, abilities, gender, or income. Sustainability Pillar 3: Socially Responsible SOCIAL While there are various stages in the transition of many older adults, from relying solely on personal or single occupancy vehicles to using other modes and means of transportation, developing supportive services and options for those who are making the transition must continue to be a priority of long range transportation plans. The personal automobile has granted us substantial freedoms and a premier level of mobility. That same highly-prized sense of freedom is often limited to those who can afford to purchase, operate and maintain reliable motor vehicles. Further, there is a growing segment of people, of all ages and abilities, who prefer not to drive for every trip. Many prefer to walk, bicycle, or take public transit if there is a reasonably acceptable alternative to driving available. The 2040 Plan includes specific goals and objectives related to the transportation and mobility needs of the increasing elderly population. These Goals and Objectives are also part of a measurement tool used to prioritize projects. The Goals and Objectives that incorporate age friendly considerations are as follows: Goal 1 – Improve Transportation System and Travel (Objective 11 – Promote transportation improvements that provide for the needs of the elderly and disabled.) Goal 2 – Increase the Safety of the Transportation System for all Users (Objective 5 – Promote the safe mobility of aging vulnerable road users.) Goal 3 – Increase the Security of the Transportation system for All Users (Objective 3 – Ensure transportation options are available during emergency evacuations for the elderly and persons with disabilities.) 7-8 | MOBILITY OPTIONS