Roosevelt Island Residents Association Opposes Giant RI Monument Proposed By Hudson Related - Calls It An Eyesore And Requests RIOC Not To Install

The Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) unanimously approved a resolution opposing installation of the Giant RI Monument during the February 7 Common Council meeting.

According to the RIRA resolution:

We, the Common Council of RIRA, hereby respectfully request that the proposed “R”I” letters RIOC and Hudson-Related intend to install, not be installed in the community. We believe them to be an eyesore, not welcoming, and not contributing to the ambiance of the community. 

Image of Giant RI Monument Mock Up At Tram Plaza On February 3

Roosevelt Island Historical Society (RIHS) President Judy Berdy spoke during the RIRA Common Council Public Session asking the Common Council to oppose the Giant RI Monument.

... There is no reason for this. It's an obstruction. It's not artistic. It doesn't lead to anything other than kids climbing on it....

Our Island has higher standards for art....

Nobody spoke in favor of the Giant RI Monument.

A Hudson Related Spokesperson previously said about the RI Monument:

We believe the Tram is the ideal and only real option for the RI monument.

In order to truly say “Welcome to Roosevelt Island” to the many visitors coming daily, we want the monument to be in a heavily trafficked and highly visible area that serves as a great photo opp spot.

We think it will provide a fun landmark that says Roosevelt Island is a destination worth visiting (and not just turning around to take a return trip on the tram). Ultimately the decision will be made by the Board.

On February 5, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) and Hudson Related displayed a mock up of the Giant RI Monument at the Tram Plaza Station (pictured above) seeking comments from those walking by (You can send your comment to RIOC here). Result of the comments have not yet been released.

A final decision regarding the installation of the Giant RI Monument will be made by the RIOC Real Estate Advisory committee at a future meeting.

More on the Giant RI Monument at these prior posts.