Come one, come all! There’s a place for everyone within West Chester, especially retirees.

West Chester Borough has just been officially designated as a part of the national AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities and the World Health Organization Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.

And the timing couldn’t be better, as the fourth-oldest state in the country is expected to grow its elder ranks by 31.5 percent over the next 10 years.

“It is crucial for communities to address the needs of a rapidly aging population,” AARP State President Bill Johnston-Walsh said.

“Older adults are living longer and not only want to stay in their communities but want to become more involved in their communities. Livable communities are an investment that will not only improve the lives of their residents today, but prepare us for the growing number of older residents tomorrow.”

West Chester earned the distinction by providing safe, walkable streets; better housing and transportation options; access to key services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community activities.

And it was a result of work done by West Chester University, the office of the Mayor of West Chester, the Borough Council, as well as service providers in the West Chester area, such as the Senior Center, The Hickman and the Area Agency on Aging offices.

“West Chester is proud to have earned the WHO designation as an Age-Friendly Community,” Mayor Carolyn Comitta said.

“We celebrate our diversity, our walkability, our vibrant downtown and our beautiful neighborhoods. West Chester has been named one of the best places in the country to raise a family, to go to school and to retire.”