This area is comprised of multi-story commercial buildings, apartments, townhouses, and housing projects. Many buildings have been renovated and repurposed to provide more residential space while some single-family, ranch-style homes were built as part of the redevelopment effort in the community. The area is quite hilly and roads do not necessarily follow a traditional urban grid pattern in spite of the fact that this is a highly urbanized area. Most streets are busy with lots of traffic and cars parked along them. Keep an eye out in this heavily trafficked area for cars parking and turning and remember that drivers in vehicles cannot always see a dog that is low to the ground. Keep your dog leashed to keep him safe from traffic and be careful at intersections and crossing entrances to parking lots or alleys. In addition to busy roads, there are many mature trees in this neighborhood and many playgrounds providing green spaces.
The 127-acre Crotona Park which has a lake, fishing spots, and plenty of walking and cycling areas is located in the northern region of the South Bronx. This flagship park sits adjacent to Hylan Park which is just across Crotona Park Road. This park is home to many different trees and aquatic animals such as turtles, ducks, and fish, as well as other local flora and fauna. There are also several sports facilities located here. Crotona Park has a pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, and multiple playgrounds. It's dog-friendly with off-leash areas designated by signage, so if your dog has good recall, he can enjoy some free play in this beautiful park.
To the South, the 35-acre St. Mary's Park has a fenced dog run so your dog can enjoy some off-leash time in the safety of an enclosed area. This park also has athletic fields and facilities, playgrounds, and lots of walking trails to stroll with your pooch.