Winter Running Safety (without sacrificing fitness) in NYC

I recently moved to NYC and run in Central Park 3-4 times a week in the evenings after work. Til now, daylight hasn't been an issue. However, I want to stay safe without sacrificing my fitness now that daylight is scarce. I always take my longer run (2 hours or so) on the weekends, but like to fit in a few hour-long or so runs during the week. This can't be done without running in the dark- anyone have any insights on this issue? Women out there with a similar issue: How have you dealt with it? And on a more philosophical level: how have you mentally dealt with the unfortunately inevitable safety issue/fear all female runners have to confront? I know it's important not to run with headphones on, to stay in populated areas, etc... I just want to educate myself a little more on this, especially being new to the city. I also don't want fear to get in the way of my training (I have been running faster and farther than I ever thought I could and have to say I am very proud of that fact and want to keep it up...)

Thanks guys.