LANSING — AARP Michigan has announced the City of Escanaba has officially joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, becoming the first city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to do so. This historic milestone underscores Escanaba’s commitment to creating a more livable, inclusive community for residents of all ages — especially older adults.

By joining the AARP Age-Friendly Network, Escanaba becomes part of a growing national movement focused on creating communities that support aging in place through thoughtful policies and planning. Communities in the network target improvements in essential areas like affordable housing, accessible transportation, safe public spaces, and quality health and social services — ensuring that people of all ages can live independently and stay connected. Together, these efforts help older adults age comfortably while building inclusive, vibrant neighborhoods that benefit everyone.

“We applaud Mayor Ammel and the City of Escanaba for taking this important step toward becoming a place where people of all ages can continue to thrive,” said AARP Michigan State Director Paula D. Cunningham. “As our state’s population continues to age, it’s essential that communities intentionally plan for the future. Escanaba is leading by example — not only for the U.P., but for the entire state.”

Sally Bruce, an Escanaba resident and longtime AARP Michigan Executive Council member and volunteer, echoed that enthusiasm.

“I’ve seen firsthand how AARP’s work can transform lives by making neighborhoods more walkable, services more accessible, and the voices of older adults more valued,” Bruce said. “I’m excited to see how Escanaba’s decision to join the network will make a difference in our city and set an example for other communities in the U.P.”

Escanaba’s enrollment comes at a critical time. By 2034, adults ages 65 and older will outnumber children in the United States for the first time in history. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for communities to embrace age-friendly principles that promote independence, access, safety, and belonging.

“Joining the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities is a proud milestone for Escanaba,” said Jim McNeil, city manager of Escanaba. “We’re excited to work alongside community members and partners as we reaffirm our commitment to making our city a welcoming place. We want to ensure everyone can age well right here in Escanaba and hopefully inspire other U.P. communities to do the same.”

The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities provides member cities with a framework for improvement, access to national and global research and tools to guide planning and implementation. By joining, Escanaba signals that it views aging as an opportunity — not a challenge — and is committed to building a future that works for all generations.