Iola take note: Millennials prefer urban amenities

In an effort to understand why Vermont is losing its share of Millennials — those 20 to 35 — the state’s Transportation Board conducted eight forums on college campuses last fall.
Like Kansas, Vermont is primarily rural. We get around in our individual cars and trucks.
But that’s so yesterday, according to this younger demographic.
Increasingly, the younger generation looks to getting away from the responsibility of four wheels to either two — such as a bicycle — or none — being able to walk or take public transportation with ease.
They like living in concentrated developments, where restaurants, shops, schools and services are all clumped together — frequently amenities provided only in urban settings.
Rural areas are slow to respond to these changes, the students said.
Bus service is either spotty or doesn’t extend into the evening hours, making it less than helpful.
Sidewalks that are hit-and-miss from block to block are not pedestrian friendly. Streets that don’t make accommodations for cyclists also are a turnoff.
This demographic also likes the idea of car-sharing options such as Zipcar or Uber.
The findings of the forums came as a surprise, especially when it comes to car ownership — once a signature event for American teens.
“It’s not just that they think differently than us older people,” said John Zicconi, executive secretary of the transportation board. “They think differently than the young people of past generations.”
There may be a time when transportation departments will need to spend less on bridge and roadway maintenance and start thinking about creating networks of walking and bike paths. 

ALLEN COUNTY is doing a great job of staying ahead of the curve. Iola’s most recent completion of a sidewalk from Cofachique Park to Walmart provides a safe venue for pedestrians and cyclists along the busy thoroughfare.
The Southwind Rail Trail from Iola to Humboldt is a resounding success and new trails being developed around Elks Lake are sure to be a big draw.
Making our communities more in line with the desires of younger generations will help take us successfully into the future.
— Susan Lynn