The Thomas R. Frey Trail at El Camino is a rail-trail owned by the city that has become more than a trail. Now it’s a popular walking and biking venue in one of Rochester’s more economically stressed neighborhoods that connects people to the outdoors and to each other.

Under the leadership of a local nurse, El Camino became the home base for Conkey Cruisers, a creative neighborhood bicycling, fitness and health program that inspires neighborhood youth and elders to get outside and exercise to develop a healthy lifestyle. It also builds community recognition and pride.

It is also the setting for Genesee Land Trust’s Apprentice Program providing a first summer job for youth focused on conservation and stewardship of the trail, and El Camino Play, a summer program for youth with games, arts and free lunches supervised by neighborhood volunteers and Project HOPE staff.