Authorized Parking For Some Vehicles At Temporary Southtown Lot But Not For Residents - Why Not Turn Space Green and Add Additional Commons Area?

Image of Authorized Vehicle Parking Sign Outside Temporary Southtown Lot

What makes a vehicle "authorized" for parking in certain Roosevelt Island locations such as the Southtown "temporary" lot opposite the Riverwalk Bar & Grill?

Aerial View of Temporary Southtown Lot (on right) Next To NYPD K9 Training Area (on left)

Last week, I sent the following inquiry to Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Vice President of Operations Fernando Martinez and Public Safety Director Keith Guerra:

I am doing a story on who is allowed to use the Authorized Parking lot opposite 425 Main Street. My understanding was that parking was supposed to be for Tram personnel. However, I have had reports from residents that some who are not Tram personnel are using that lot.

For instance, I just saw Gina from the Franklin & Eleanor Roosevelt Institute (FERI) park in that lot a few minutes ago. It is not the first time I have seen her park there when there were plenty of parking spaces available on the street. Is a representative from FERI considered an authorized user of the parking lot? If so, why should Roosevelt Island residents be prohibited from using that space.

Also noticed that some spaces on West Channel Road across from Starbucks have been turned into commercial parking areas.

Why was that?

 Image Of Commercial Parking Spaces On West Road Opposite Starbucks

RIOC's Press Spokesperson replied:

Tram employees, PSD, and NYPD are authorized to use the lot.  Gina and Sally have also been authorized to park in the lot given the size of the project they are overseeing, their need to be on the Island to both manage and further the project, and because of the impact the project will have on the Island.  RIOC is aware that there has been unauthorized parking in the lot and has stepped up enforcement in response.

Gina and Sally refer to the FERI representatives.

With spring approaching in a few months, some, including myself would like to see that area of Southtown cleaned up and made into a green space continuing the Riverwalk Commons area instead of being used as a parking lot.