The north end of Central Park marks the beginning of a different world in Manhattan. In the 1.4 square-mile space between 110th and 155th Streets lies Central Harlem, an area best known for the Apollo Theater and for being a former home to various music legends, such as Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday, during the Harlem Renaissance, but despite its storied past, the community is undergoing dramatic change.

Central Harlem faces numerous hurdles that continue to threaten the livelihood of its residents. With a median household income of $43,430, a median asking rent of $2,350, limited health care options, and barriers to basic needs, residents are struggling with issues that are not being addressed.

Our team of journalists looked at what is at stake for these residents and local businesses that shape Central Harlem today. Over the last four months, we have produced stories about access to women’s health care, immigrants raising their children in Africa, the legacy of Central Harlem architecture, the legendary Harlem Haberdashery, and an interactive look at gentrification through the eyes of a small business owner.

These stories are only a glimpse of what life is like in Central Harlem, but we hope it will bring the lives of the thousands who live here to the forefront of conversations.