Wednesday, September 21st, 2022 the Town of Cutler Bay saw $620,000 towards amplifying local initiatives: Active Adult Services and Marlin Road Improvements due to the legislative efforts of State Senator Ileana Garcia this past session.
According to Cutler Bay’s most recent census, 14% of the population is 65 and older. The Communities for a Lifetime Age-Friendly Action Plan (CFAL) also discovered this very demographic, albeit independent and highly capable of managing their own time, are unaware of the local services at their neighborhood’s disposal and as a result, fail to take advantage of them to their highest capability. Active Adult Services bridges the gap between connecting these very seniors with their environment whilst maintaining an energetic quality of life.
The project intends on establishing a range of community outings to be held at least once per month, consistent recreational activities within Franjo Park Community Center, acquirement of new supplies and equipment like domino tables and light exercise machines, and finally, developing an informational resource pamphlet detailing the optimal services at their behest. Positive benefits from the expansion include boosting overall mental stimulation and wellbeing through socializing, educational activities, and enlistment in active community engagement.
One of Cutler Bay’s major lines, Marlin Road, is also getting an ample boost. Major grievances from citizens have been voiced various times in relation to speeding and motor safety for all despite age or ability while developing the Town’s recently updated Transportation Master Plan. Statistics collected just from 2014 to 2018, saw bicycle and pedestrian crash reports were too frequently on the upswing. Data collected also detailed Marlin Road’s extensively poor service level ratings specifically between Old Cutler Road and Caribbean Boulevard as a “D” with Caribbean Boulevard and north of US-1 going as low as an “F.” As a result, the traffic along Marlin accelerates as it advances North, increasing the flow of accidents and traffic for residents.
As a solution to these aforementioned concerns, the Marlin Road Improvement Project intends on improving safety through installing a pedestrian refuge within the median, five-foot-wide sidewalks, ten foot wide high-visibility crosswalks, bicycle/ share the road lanes, and ADA ramps.
