Skip to Content
Streetsblog California home
Streetsblog California home
Log In
Podcast

Talking Headways Podcast: Indexing Livability for All Ages

podcast icon logo
false

This week we chat with Rodney Harrell of the AARP Public Policy Institute about their new Livability Index Tool. I ask him who the tool was created for and tell him why it should be regarded as more than just magazine clickbait. We talk about the robust policy tools that were included for each section and how the data was collected and at what geographic scale.

We also have a chat about the neighborhood scores and what disappointed us about our neighborhood ratings. Rodney discusses how he’s already used the index to promote investment in his neighborhood and how other neighborhoods around the country are using it too. Finally we discuss which cities surprise him and get into a quick chat about Twitter use among policy wonks and why people who have to take care of family members later in life are more likely to be aware of livability issues.

Join us for a fun data driven conversation.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog California

Tuesday’s Headlines

A lot of CA v Trump news, but there's plenty going on in cities (and ports!) throughout the state.

September 23, 2025

Our Streets Look Like War Zones — But What if They Were ‘Sites of Peacebuilding’ Instead?

A peace and conflict studies scholar weighs in on what car culture has in common with global conflicts — and why we need to confront violence on our roads if we want to end violence around the globe.

September 23, 2025

There’s Good Science Behind the Human Craving for Livable Streets

It's time to understanding the science of pedestrian-friendly cities. Or, why streets should be designed like gardens.

September 22, 2025

Caltrain Celebrates Electric Train Anniversary as Gov. Signs Bill for More

Gavin Newsom's signature on "Cap-and-Invest" means there will be even more rail electrification in the future.

September 22, 2025

StreetSmart Ep10: Zack Deutsch-Gross and the 2025 Legislative Session

A look back at the session, and forward at the state of advocacy.

September 22, 2025

Eyes on the Street: Culver City Robertson Improvements Under Construction

Culver City is nearly done transforming one long block of Robertson Boulevard to be a safe bike/walk/transit first/last mile connection to the Metro E Line Station.

September 22, 2025
See all posts