Overview
In December 2016, an age-friendly steering committee was established to actively engage the community in becoming recognized as age-friendly.
From May to November 2017, forums and focus groups were conducted, along with an age-friendly survey and an inventory of senior-related programs, services and businesses.
Following this, the AFC Committee Assessment and Recommendations Report was completed.
Age-Friendly Community Action plan completed. A Seniors Advisory Committee is created to work on advising Council on implementing action plan items, including:
- exploring affordable senior housing options for New Maryland
- promoting and encouraging creation of community home maintenance businesses
- promoting awareness of programs and services for seniors
- exploring and supporting community transportation program
- expanding existing sidewalk network
- exploring development of accessible walking/biking trail between New Maryland and Fredericton
- installing more senior accessible park benches and washrooms
- working with the RCMP to improve senior safety around traffic
- improving lighting
- introducing senior-friendly park equipment
- installing audible crosswalk signs with sufficient crossing time
- improving public signage
- expanding senior activities in the community
- working with local businesses to become age-friendly
- creating intergenerational advisory committees and events
- implementing a Senior Recognition Program through a spotlight series in the New Maryland newsletter
The Village of New Maryland showed outstanding leadership and organization in their age-friendly efforts. They systematically worked through the steps as outlined in the provincial age-friendly program guide. Their application submission was exemplary and could stand as a model for others.
They have, upon multiple occasions, shown support to other NB communities by sharing resources and making presentations to Councils, Regional age-friendly networking workshops in Fundy and Western Valley, sharing templates, surveys and reports, etc.