East River Greenway, esplanade in Manhattan, New York
The East River Greenway is a walking and cycling path that runs for about 9.44 miles along the east side of Manhattan from Battery Park to East Harlem. The route follows the river, is mostly separated from the FDR Drive, and offers views of the water, bridges, and the city skyline.
The greenway was built mostly between the 1930s and 1950s with help from the city's parks department to give people access to the waterfront. Since then, various sections have been updated and extended, especially in East Harlem where repairs are underway after years of neglect.
The greenway connects diverse neighborhoods from the financial district to upper East Harlem and serves as a gathering space for the community. You notice how the path brings different areas of the city together around a shared waterfront experience.
The path is divided into several sections with gaps, especially between 10th and 20th Streets where you need to detour through city streets. Entrances are available at 37th Street and Battery Park, with restrooms and water fountains scattered along the route, though some may not work in colder weather.
A distinctive feature is the East River Esplanade Park section at 37th Street with two small fountains and an overlook that extends over the river. This park was built in the early 1990s as part of efforts to bring more public space and waterfront access to the area.
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