Speaker Daniel Parolek makes case for “Missing Middle Housing”

Aging Boomers want a different kind of housing than earlier generations – more walkable, urban environments that foster human interaction and allow easy access to nearby amenities.

Architect Daniel Parolek, the next speaker in The Tomorrow Plan 2016 Speaker Series, will give a talk Dec. 16 in Des Moines on how the region can meet these demands with “Missing Middle Housing,” a range of multi-unit or clustered housing types compatible in scale with single-family homes while supporting walkable urban living.

“The needs are shifting for a significant share of the region’s residents as they age,” said Kent Sovern, state director for AARP Iowa. “As a region we can choose to respond to their needs, including a broader range of housing options. We can create the kind of walkable, urban environments where the 50-plus population can live their best lives – and spend their money – engaged in the community. We see this as an incredible opportunity.”

Parolek’s presentation is at 8 a.m. Friday, December 16, at the Olsen Center at Des Moines University, 3200 Grand Ave., Des Moines. His remarks are the keynote for the 2016 annual meeting of the Greater Des Moines Age Friendly Initiative report to the community. The meeting is free to attend and open to the public. Complimentary continental breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. Please RSVP online at https://aarp.cvent.com/DSMlivable or by calling 1-877-926-8300.

This event is approved for 1.5 AICP CM credits.