White Plains, NY —  Westchester County seniors will soon have a new reason to get outdoors and get some exercise in Westchester.

The Board of Legislators approved $1 million in funding for a program to bring outdoor fitness equipment and workout stations for seniors to Westchester County parks, in a unanimous vote on July 12.

Legislator Ruth Walter (D- Bronxville, Yonkers), chair of the Board's Environment & Health Committee, requested the equipment.

Walter said, "Keeping active and getting outdoors is important to physical and mental health.  That's especially true for people as that get older.  Older residents also might be less likely to have access to places and spaces to exercise. Having this equipment in our parks will help local seniors maintain their health and serve as a place where people can meet up and socialize while staying active. I appreciate the efforts of County Executive George Latimer and our Parks Department in serving our seniors."

Parks and Recreation Committee Chair David Tubiolo (D - Yonkers, Mount Vernon) said, "These exercise stations are going to be wonderful resources for our seniors, who deserve access this kind of fun and healthy resource. I'm looking forward to working with the County Executive and the Parks Department to find appropriate and safe places for these exercise stations and getting them installed for our seniors."

Public Works and Transportation Chair Vedat Gashi (D - Yorktown, New Castle, Somers), said, "Our County parks system is one of the best things about living in Westchester, and that should be as true for seniors as for any other age group.  I think it’s wonderful that we’re investing in a something that’s a fun, healthy benefit especially for them."

With the passage of the measure, the Parks Department will begin to identify potential locations and work with consultants to determine the equipment that fits the needs of the park users.