Report From RIOC Acting President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Donations To Hurricane Sandy Victims, Main Street Construction, Meditation Steps Resotoration & Public Purpose Funds

 Image Of Acting RIOC President Don Lewis From RIOC

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Acting President Don Lewis sends the following report to Roosevelt Island residents.

Our annual Tree Lighting event last weekend was a festive way to kick off the holiday season. Undeterred by the rainy weather and fueled by the Roosevelt Island positive energy, the event took place as scheduled and turned out to be yet another fun filled and joyous holiday Island occasion. Thank you to both the Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance and the youngsters from the Roosevelt Island Youth Center for their terrific performances, as well as RIOC’s own Erica Spencer-EL whose efforts were integral to making the event such a success. Last but not least, thank you to Santa for making a special appearance and spreading his holiday cheer.

Update on Donations to Sandy Victims

In a previous column, I mentioned the formation of a partnership between RIOC and Team Rubicon USA to help individuals in New York City who are suffering as a result of the storm. By way of update, the response from the Roosevelt Island community continues to be outstanding. With the assistance of Team Rubicon and various Island organizations, we have delivered over 200 bags of food, clothes and other items to heavily affected areas such as the Rockaways. There is still work to be done and if you would like to still contribute to our continuing efforts, please drop off items for donation between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday at our 591 Main Street office. For more information, please call 212-832-4540 ext 349.

Main Street Reconstruction Complete

We are delighted to report that Phase II of our Main Street Reconstruction Project was completed on November 26, more than three months ahead of schedule. During Phase I, which was completed in 2009, we replaced Z-Bricks with asphalt pavement on the roadway from 40 River Road to the Fire House Station. Phase II continued the same work from 40 River Road to the bottom of the Helix ramp. The asphalt surface is better equipped to handle heavy vehicle traffic, as well as unfavorable elements, and also requires less maintenance.

Meditation Steps Restoration Complete

We are also pleased to announce that the Meditation Steps reopened last month. While we hoped the steps would have reopened earlier, the contractors encountered certain unforeseen structural conditions, but overcame the same to deliver a beautiful finished product. The sidewalk above the steps has also been repaired and in the near future, the surrounding lighting will be enhanced. The views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline are as breathtaking as ever, but now the restored steps provide a perfect place for Island residents and visitors to take in the amazing views.

Applications for Public Purpose Funds

The 2013 application for Public Purpose Funds are now available online. Public Purpose Funds are allocated to not-for-profit organizations that provide services that enhance the quality of life of the Roosevelt Island community. To obtain a copy of the application and to review current guidelines, visit rioc.ny.gov/grants.htm. The deadline to apply for Public Purpose Funds is Friday, January 11, 2013 at 5:00 pm.