Zoning and D[y]splacement: Frederick Douglass Boulevard in Central Harlem

Janes Walk

Led By Gregory Baggett, Founder, A. Philip Randolph Square Neighborhood Alliance

This walking tour explores how a single rezoning plan transformed both an avenue and its surrounding streets in Harlem. The plan emerged from grassroots leadership operating under the direction of then Manhattan Borough President C. Virginia Fields – a local quasi-governmental role with only advisory power over rezoning applications – rather than from outside developers. As we walk, we’ll examine how this initiative marked a significant break from the historical use of underdevelopment as a protective barrier against change, particularly notable because this new approach came from within the community’s own leadership. The tour highlights how community leaders chose to catalyze change by adopting new models to reimagine Harlem’s future.

Accessibility

ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION Distance and Route: The tour covers approximately 12 blocks, traveling north from 110th Street to 122nd Street, moving between Frederick Douglass Boulevard, Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard, and Saint Nicholas Avenue. The total walking distance is approximately 1.6 mile (2.6 km). Terrain and Mobility: All sidewalks along the route are paved and wheelchair accessible with curb cuts at intersections. The route is generally flat with slight inclines typical of Manhattan streets. Multiple benches and resting spots are available along the route. The pace will be moderate with frequent stops for extended discussion. Public Transit: A/C/B/D trains stop at: 110th Street/Central Park North 116th Street 125th Street (Note: elevator currently out of service due to renovation) 2/3 trains stop at: 110th Street/Central Park North 116th Street 125th Street Several bus routes serve the area: M1/M2/M3/M4/M60/M100/M116/M125/Bx15 Multiple CitiBike stations are located throughout the area Amenities: Several convenience stores and cafes along the route for water/refreshments; restaurant row along Douglass Boulevard; PLEASE NOTE: there are no public restrooms available on the route We recommend bringing water, especially during warm weather Additional Accommodations: The tour welcomes participants using mobility devices, including wheelchairs, walkers, and canes; Bikes, skates, and skateboards are welcome; Service animals are welcome; Written tour materials can be provided upon request; Multiple stops for rest and discussion are built into the tour; Tour guide will wear a microphone for better audibility. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact the Jane's Walk guilde or Jane's Walk organizer in advance

Location Information

RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.

guided

Saturday, May 3, 2025
9:00 AM
90 minutes

Borough: Manhattan
Theme: Advocacy, Art & Architecture, History & Culture
Language: English
Brownstones in Central Harlem. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, diego_cue. Modifications: photo cropped.