Here, a park breathes life into the cityscape. This is Alice Kornegay Triangle. It is a testament to a woman’s unwavering dedication. Alice Kornegay was a community advocate. She championed the needs of East Harlem for over 35 years.
This park bears her name with good reason. Alice Kornegay tirelessly fought for vital resources. She secured funding for low-income housing. She helped establish essential community institutions. She left an indelible mark on this neighborhood.
Alice Kornegay understood the power of community. She recognized the importance of having safe spaces for residents. She knew families needed places to gather and children needed room to play. This triangle park embodies that vision.
Imagine Alice Kornegay in 1961. She stood tall against New York City’s political establishment. She and a dedicated group resisted the City’s plan. The plan was to transform East Harlem into a commercial zone. They wanted to preserve the residential character of their neighborhood.
“Why not?” That was Alice Kornegay’s defiant question. This question fueled her passion. It inspired her community. She taught them not just to hope. She showed them how to fight and win.
The Community Association of the East Harlem Triangle honored Alice Kornegay. The Association spearheaded numerous projects under her guidance. These projects reshaped the neighborhood. They provided housing, education, and social services.
Consider Triangle Apartments and Chambers Houses. In 1964, nine buildings on East 130th Street were renovated. This created 170 affordable housing units. It offered a safe haven for families.
Think about Community School 30/31. New construction from 127th to 128th Streets began in 1968. Today, it serves over 800 children. It provides them with education and opportunity.
Envision the Jackie Robinson House. It was completed in 1980. It offered 189 new housing units. It stood as a symbol of progress and hope.
Reflect on the Department of Human Relations Administration building. It was completed in 1974. It housed vital social services. The Beatrice Lewis Senior Center and the East Harlem Triangle Day Care Center No. 2 are here.
Remember the Moravian Church that opened in 1977. Consider the Salvation Army Manhattan Citadel Corps Community Center. Both offered spiritual guidance. Both offered community support.
Picture 1775 Houses and AK Houses completed in 1980 and 1979. These added hundreds of affordable housing units. They transformed the lives of countless families.
Imagine the “Each One Teach One” summer program. The Community Association founded it for teenagers in 1980. Over a hundred youths participated. This instilled a sense of responsibility.
Remember MS Houses completed in 1982. This innovative project combined apartments and row houses. It catered to both small and large families.
Think about Tweemill Houses completed in 1991. This provided housing for the disabled community. It fostered independence and support.
Envision the ARC Addition Rehabilitation Center opened in 1992. The Community Association worked with ARC staff. They reached out to residents battling addiction.
Reflect on Project Linkage completed in 1997. This joint project offered housing for senior citizens. It created inter-generational programs for youth.
Picture the Pathmark Supermarket that broke ground in 1997. This brought a much-needed economic boost. It enhanced the 125th Street corridor.
This Alice Kornegay Triangle is more than just a park. It is a reminder of her legacy. It is a testament to the power of community action. It stands as a symbol of hope. It is a place where children play and dreams take flight.