Friday, September 30, 2022

Hurricane Ian targeted Florida’s retirement belt

Also today: NYC proposal offers cash for spotting parking violations in bike lanes, and Sydney looks to amp up its nightlife.

Retirees in search of lower living costs and mild winters often see Florida as an oasis; that's a big reason why it's the second-grayest state in the US. But the trail of wreckage that Hurricane Ian left behind this week is a stark reminder that the state's high concentration of seniors increases its vulnerability to extreme weather events. Charlotte County, which suffered extensive damage, is among the oldest counties in Florida, with 40% of residents aged 65 or above.

Older adults often face unique hurricane risks because of mobility issues and chronic health problems that can turn deadly when power and utilities are knocked out. Even so, a recent survey suggests that many in Florida remain unprepared for disasters, making it harder for them to rebound from a severe storm. Officials have ramped up efforts to better protect senior residents, but challenges remain, Linda Poon reports. Today on CityLab: Hurricane Ian Targeted Florida's Retirement Belt

 — Allison Nicole Smith 

More on CityLab

NYC Proposal Offers Cash for Spotting Parking Violations in Bike Lanes
The bill is aimed at curtailing illegal parking, but some worry about unintended consequences.
How Public Spaces Can Keep Small Businesses Open

Public spaces in cities were a lifeline for small businesses during the pandemic, and local leaders should continue to allow access to them.

Sydney Looks to Amp Up Nightlife to Shed Sleepy Reputation
The ultimate morning city has a $33 million plan to persuade residents to get out in the evenings.

What we're reading 

  • In New York, NIMBYism finally outstays its welcome (The New York Times)
  • Why does everything look the same in North Texas? Blame the "flattening" (The Dallas Morning News)
  • Will anyone ever buy or sell a home again? (Slate)
  • Fighting road congestion, Mexico City rethinks its rights of way (Governing)
  • Battle of the teas in Qatar (Al Jazeera)

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