The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) has chosen seven recipients for its 2025 Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP). This program offers vital planning and technical support to improve life quality across metro Atlanta. The selected projects tackle key regional issues, such as affordable housing and historic preservation. These are especially relevant concerns for the aging Generation X demographic.

Several awarded projects directly or indirectly support Generation X’s ability to age in their own homes affordably. For instance, Rockdale County will receive ARC staff support for a housing assessment. This aims to plan for growth, offer accessible senior housing, and create varied housing options. Given that many in Generation X are managing care for older parents alongside their own retirement plans, developing accessible and affordable senior housing is essential. It supports their parents’ well-being and their own capacity to age in place.

Furthermore, Clayton County and the cities of Lake City, Lovejoy, Forest Park, Riverdale, and Jonesboro will jointly receive a $200,000 grant for a housing market analysis. Their goal is to pinpoint areas for improvement and develop strategies for more accessible and affordable housing for all residents. This directly affects Generation X, who are increasingly worried about rising living costs and maintaining their homes as they age. Moreover, the focus on accessible housing aligns with the needs of older adults and those with mobility challenges within this generation.

In Cherokee County, the Pearidge community will be the focus of a planning study on affordability and historic preservation, with ARC staff assistance. As Generation X increasingly values community character and history, preserving these aspects while ensuring affordability is vital for their long-term well-being and desire to remain in their communities. Additionally, the City of Forest Park will undertake the Blacksville Green Space and Resiliency Plan. This study aims to boost community resilience by creating more green spaces and beautification projects. Access to green spaces and environmental sustainability are increasingly important to Generation X as they consider their long-term health and the livability of their communities as they age.

While the other awarded projects—the City of Decatur Heat Mitigation Strategy, the Douglas Boulevard Economic Envisioning Plan (City of Douglasville), and the City of South Fulton Comprehensive Plan Update—do not directly address aging in place, their efforts to enhance infrastructure, economic vitality, and environmental conditions will contribute to more sustainable and desirable communities for all generations. Consequently, this includes Generation X as they navigate midlife and plan for the future.

For Generation X, now in their late 40s and 50s, the ability to age in their current communities is a significant consideration. Factors such as affordable housing, accessibility, and available support services are crucial for making this a reality. These CDAP awards represent a positive move towards meeting these needs in the Atlanta region.