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Read the press release here.

East Harlem Walking Trail Gets Residents Fit While Taking in Sites

By Dartunorro Clark | November 21, 2016 4:17pm
 The trail runs from East 106th to 115th streets and goes between to Fifth and Pleasant avenues.
The trail runs from East 106th to 115th streets and goes between to Fifth and Pleasant avenues.
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DNAinfo/Dartunorro Clark

HARLEM — Now there’s an opportunity for El Barrio residents to get fit while marveling at the neighborhood’s historic sites.

A three-mile community walking trail that connects residents to Central Park and Randall’s Island was unveiled this weekend to promote physical activity and cultural awareness in the neighborhood.

The trail runs from East 106th to 115th streets and goes between Fifth and Pleasant avenues.

Along the walk there are markers, such as murals, community gardens and public art that showcases the neighborhood’s history and character.

The trail also includes cultural institutions and historic landmarks, such as The Julia De Burgos Latino Cultural Center and the Ward’s Island Bridge.

The trail is the result of a year-long effort by community residents, local politicians, the city Department of Health’s Center for Health Equity and the East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center to get residents outdoors and active.

“Every one of us has a role to play in making our neighborhoods healthier and just places to live,” said Dr. Maybank Aletha, the deputy commissioner and director of the Center for Health Equity.

“(The trail) is a testament to what can happen when a neighborhood organizes and amplifies resident voices in order to improve their environment so that everybody can thrive.”