An estimated 79 percent of young adults with autism spectrum disorders reside with their parents. But a new residence built to house 16 autistic adults in Sonoma, CA aims to provide a supportive alternative to living at home, and a nationwide model.
Seeking to accommodate those with autism as they grow out of school-based support systems and their parents' homes, "Kim Steele and Sherry Ahrentzen, collaborated on 'Advancing Full Spectrum Housing,' a comprehensive design guideline for housing adults with autism," writes Michael Totorello.
"Perhaps the first development to closely follow their template is Sweetwater Spectrum, a residence for 16 adults whose abilities and disabilities span the full range of autism. The innovative $10.4 million project opened in January in the heart of California wine country, and its founding families and board hope to make Sweetwater a model for like-minded experiments across the country."
"The public image of living with autism is one of lethargy and social isolation, [Deirdre Sheerin, Sweetwater’s chief executive and executive director] said. Picture someone 'sitting on a Barcalounger with a video game, eating weird foods.' By contrast, everything about Sweetwater exists to inspire a 'life with purpose.'”
FULL STORY: The Architecture of Autism
A Policy Change for Special Needs New Yorkers
The Brooklyn Development Center will close Dec. 31. The closure of the state facility is part of a long term goal of deinstitutionalizing the developmentally disabled and integrating them in the community in group homes.
California Sues Norwalk Over Shelter Moratorium
The state says the city of Norwalk’s prohibition on new shelters and transitional and supportive housing violates anti-discrimination and fair housing laws.
Colorado Springs Motel Converted to Supportive Housing
A vacant motel now offers 12 supportive housing units for formerly homeless women.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Las Vegas Golf Course to Become Over 1,000 Units of Affordable Housing
The project is part of an initiative to build affordable housing on shuttered golf courses.
California Governor Vows to Protect EV Credits
If the federal government eliminates the tax credit for electric vehicles, the governor will need legislative support to restart a state-level incentive program.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Los Alamos County
City of Culver City
Skagit Transit
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners