“Senior strong! Everyone belongs! Kids cross here, be aware, please don’t run us down!”

“Senior strong! Everyone belongs! Kids cross here, be aware, please don’t run us down!” With creative chants, colorful signs, and African and Japanese drumming, a large and spirited group of seniors and teenagers rallied and marched in Boston’s Grove Hall neighborhood for safer streets and pedestrian crossings. The demonstration took place as part of the Elderly Commission’s Summer Sidewalk Series celebrating the first year of Age-Friendly Boston.

Many drivers got the Grove Hall group’s message as they slowed down upon seeing the lively crowd, with some even honking their horns in support. Others however continued to speed through the crosswalks, with some clearly distracted on their phones. This highlighted a strong need for permanent built environment improvements to slow traffic down and improve walking safety.

As part of our Age-Friendly Walking initiative, WalkBoston looks forward to our continued work to advance these goals in Grove Hall and all over Boston. We also encourage folks to join us outside the State House on July 11 at 12:30pm for a rally in support of hands-free legislation to reduce distracted driving. Working together and across generations, we can create safer streets for all.