Through partnership with the Department of Transportation’s art program (NYC DOT Art), WHEDco was provided with a permit to complete the painting on the step street. It was beautiful to watch and to speak with the youth in the community,” Mendez said. Their friendship has persisted ever since, and Mendez knew Maniotis would be the perfect partner for completing this mural. In querying the community’s interest in a potential mural, WHEDco spoke with the Highbridge-Concourse Merchants Association. “Tropical Passage” remains on view in the stairwell at West 168th Street Step Street, connecting Edward L. Grant Highway to Shakespeare Avenue.