Nestled in the northwest heart of Rochester, the United Neighbors Together neighborhood exudes a unique blend of history, resilience, and community pride. For decades, this vibrant area—offering leafy streets, historic landmarks, and a tapestry of cultures—has stood as a testament to the strength and unity of its residents. Whether you’re a new arrival or a longtime local, there’s something truly special about United Neighbors Together.
Origins: From Village Roots to Neighborhood Name
The roots of United Neighbors Together, often simply called "UNT" by locals, stretch back to the early 20th century. The neighborhood sits just west of the Genesee River, bordered roughly by Lyell Avenue, Dewey Avenue, and the meandering path of Driving Park Avenue. Originally, this area was part of land holdings that supported the bustling mills along the river and nearby railroads. As Rochester’s industry grew, so did the need for homes for workers and their families.
The name "United Neighbors Together" was officially adopted in the early 1970s. Amid the urban renewal efforts sweeping Rochester at the time, a group of passionate residents formed a coalition dedicated to strengthening ties and advocating for their community. The new name reflected their mission: to foster unity across the diverse backgrounds—Italian, Puerto Rican, African American, and others—that made up the neighborhood’s population. It was more than a name; it became a call to action and a source of neighborhood pride.
Key Historical Milestones
Over the decades, United Neighbors Together has seen its share of transformation, each era leaving a lasting impact. Some pivotal milestones include:
- 1920s–1940s: Growth and Arrival
The area blossomed as new families moved in, attracted by jobs at the Kodak plant and surrounding businesses. Row houses and duplexes sprung up along streets like Maplewood Avenue and Lexington Avenue, still coveted for their wide porches and sturdy brickwork.
- 1950s–1970s: Change and Resilience
Through economic booms and downturns, the neighborhood adapted. The rise of the automobile and suburbanization shifted traffic and commerce away from Lyell Avenue, presenting new challenges. It was during these years that the United Neighbors Together coalition was formed, helping residents organize against disinvestment and advocate for city services.
- 1980s–Present: Renewal and Diversity
In recent decades, United Neighbors Together has welcomed waves of new immigrants, adding fresh energy and cultural traditions. Community organizations and block clubs have worked closely with schools like Jefferson Avenue School and the local YMCA to keep the neighborhood vibrant, safe, and connected.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
Walking through United Neighbors Together, history comes alive at every turn. Several landmarks capture the spirit of the area:
- St. Michael’s Church (869 North Clinton Avenue)
Though just outside traditional boundaries, this imposing Gothic Revival church has served as a spiritual center for generations of neighborhood families.
- Driving Park Bridge
At the edge of the neighborhood, this historic bridge—often called the "Blue Bridge" by locals—has ferried Rochesterians across the Genesee since the 1890s. It remains a vital connection and a scenic spot for photos.
- Viola Street Rowhouses
The block of Viola Street between Dewey Avenue and Lakeview Park is lined with early 20th-century homes that showcase classic Rochester architecture—bay windows, cornices, and beautiful lawns.
- Rochester Public Market
Within easy reach at 280 North Union Street, the Market has been a shopping and socializing destination since the 1920s, frequented by UNT residents for decades.
- Jefferson Avenue School
This educational anchor has nurtured generations of local kids, celebrated for its garden program and neighborhood art projects.
Parks and Gathering Places
Green space weaves through United Neighbors Together, providing places to gather, play, and reflect. Most beloved of all is Maplewood Park, just north of the neighborhood proper, known for its stately trees, creek-side trails, and panoramic Genesee River views. Smaller parks like Jones Square have served as sites for block parties, summer concerts, and family picnics for over 50 years.
Community Spirit and Evolution
What truly sets United Neighbors Together apart is the indomitable spirit of its residents. Over the years, neighbors have come together to paint murals, clean up parks, and support each other through tough times. Annual traditions, like the Unity Festival at the corner of Lyell and Child Streets or garden tours down Dove Street, celebrate the area’s rich diversity—a living reminder of the neighborhood’s founding vision.
Today, the area balances the preservation of its historical charm with ongoing revitalization. Local small businesses, from bakeries on Dewey Avenue to corner bodegas, give the neighborhood flavor. Many houses have been lovingly restored, and community gardens now bloom where vacant lots once stood. New generations—whether lifelong residents or recent arrivals—carry forward the spirit of cooperation and pride that has always defined United Neighbors Together.
Looking Ahead
As Rochester continues to evolve, the future of United Neighbors Together looks bright. Its robust block clubs ensure voices are heard at City Hall, and youth-led initiatives keep the neighborhood creative and welcoming. Improvements such as safer streets, better lighting, and increased green spaces all bear the imprint of neighbors working together.
In the words of longtime resident Maria Santiago, “This is a place where you know your neighbors and your neighbors know you. It’s not just about living next to each other. We really are united—and we always will be.”
United Neighbors Together isn’t just a name on a map. It’s a living legacy—a community that truly lives up to its title, every day. If you stroll down Lexington Avenue or pause for a view from the Driving Park Bridge, you’ll feel it: the heartbeat of a Rochester neighborhood with a proud past and a hopeful future.