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EPA Recognizes Four Communities' Efforts to Improve Seniors' Health

WASHINGTON- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is recognizing four communities that are helping reduce air pollution and improve people's health and overall quality of life through smart growth neighborhoods. These are communities designed with the principle of reducing commutes and environmental harm.

These four communities are receiving EPA's Building Healthy Communities for Active Aging awards due to their commitment to active lifestyles. Residents of all abilities and ages are able to stay active with each community's extensive walking and biking options. Communities that are creative in their growth design not only protect the environment by reducing air pollution and reducing water contaminants, but also foster economic vitality and enhance quality of life.

"Communities that recognize that design matters contribute to the quality of life of persons of all ages and the environment," said John Frece, director of EPA's Office of Sustainable Communities. "When communities invest in diverse means to get around and build active aging into our daily lives, they receive the environmental dividends of both a healthy environment and a better quality of life for residents of all ages."

This year's winners in the achievement category are the City of Charlotte, N.C. and the Brazos Valley Council of Governments, Texas. The winners in the commitment category are the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, Va. and the Philadelphia Corporation on Aging, Pa.

More information on the awards: http://www.epa.gov/aging/bhc/awards/2010/index.html