Westchester County wants to hear from older adults in Bronxville, Eastchester and Scarsdale about how they get to the doctor, the grocery store and everywhere in between.
The county's "Improving Transportation for the Aging Population" survey opened Aug. 23 and runs through Monday, Oct. 5. Results will help shape recommendations for improving mobility options for older residents, according to the county.
The survey is open to anyone in the county, not just seniors. Caregivers, family members who provide rides and other residents can all weigh in. The county said it wants feedback from people regardless of how they travel, whether by car, public transit, paratransit, walking or rides from relatives and friends. Participants are asked to share experiences getting to medical appointments, shopping, social activities and other essential destinations.
Jonathan Joseph, associate transportation planner with the Westchester County Department of Planning, is the point person for the effort. He appeared in a county video segment to discuss the survey. Questions can be directed to Joseph at the county's Department of Planning.
Why it matters locally
The need is growing. Census data analyzed by the Westchester Index show that between 2010–14 and 2020–24, Eastchester's population aged 60 to 84 grew 17%, Scarsdale's grew 16% and Bronxville's grew 8%. Countywide, one in five residents is now 60 or older, according to the county's Department of Senior Programs and Services.
The survey comes as local transit options are shifting. As we reported Aug. 23, Eastchester's school bus fleet is shrinking to six buses after most appeals were denied.
How to take the survey
Residents can complete it online at planning.westchestercountyny.gov/transportation-planning/overview before Oct. 5.
Upcoming
- Oct. 5 — Deadline for the senior transportation survey
- Oct. 1 — Andrus gala honoring Bronxville's Susan Guma
