Cities Attempt to Be Family Friendly

USA Today reports:

CEOs for Cities — a national network of mayors, corporate executives, university presidents, foundation officials and civic leaders — commissioned a year-long study to explore what cities can do to retain families.

Public parks can substitute for a lack of backyards and cultural offerings — museums, libraries, symphonies — can enrich children's educations, says the report by the Institute of Design in Chicago. It recommends happy hours for families in local restaurants, family rest stops that include stroller lockers, car-free zones and child-only areas on public transportation.

"Cities face a challenge keeping families with financial options," says Carol Coletta, president and chief executive of CEOs for Cities. "There's this broad belief that if you raise children in the city, you're in fact a bad and selfish parent. It's actually an enriching experience."

•Chicago. Neighborhoods closest to the central business district have experienced large drops in child populations, so the city is putting all after-school programs in one database. The After School Matters program helps find jobs for teens, from apprenticeships at the opera to working with top chefs.

"About half of white families leave Chicago when their children are school-age," says Mary Ellen Caron, commissioner of Children and Youth Services.

•Akron, Ohio The city promotes New Year's Eve family celebrations and downtown activities for adults and children, including a skating rink and artisan fair. It also now jointly owns community learning centers with the school district and has extended after-school programs in 42 schools being built or rehabilitated.

"Young professionals can find something here and, by the way, when you find your mate, there are also activities that you and your family can take advantage of," Mayor Donald Plusquellic says.

Bad public schools,high crime,and high taxes.