Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island FDR Four Freedoms Park Hours Expanded, Steel Boat Sculpture Renovation, Lighthouse Park Reopens But Still Damaged, New RIOC President & More

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

FDR Four Freedoms Park Update

We are pleased to advise that April 24 marked the start of expanded spring/summer hours at Four Freedoms Park, which is now open six days a week from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and closed on Tuesdays. The Four Freedoms Park Conservancy has recently hired a new Director of Visitor Experience and a new Park Operations Manager to supervise an expanded staff of Park Rangers who will interact with visitors, answer questions and conduct tours. The Conservancy is also seeking volunteers to be trained as Greeters to supplement staff and enhance visitors’ experience. For the latest updates on this wonderful park, or to become involved, visit www.fdrfourfreedomspark.org.

Steel Boat Sculpture Renovation

Extensive restoration work on the Steel Boat Sculpture (the “Boat Prow”) was completed last month. After the Boat Prow’s deteriorated steel panels were removed, RIOC’s Engineering Department determined that the sculpture’s structural framing had been irreparably damaged by seawater exposure. Contractors have replaced the entire structural framing and the renovated Boat Prow was reopened to the public on April 19.

Motorgate Turnaround Pedestrian Ramps

We are aware that due to recent renovations, there is a need for pedestrian ramps at the Motorgate Bus Turnaround, with curb cuts between the new entrance to Gristede’s and the Helix ramp. We intend to issue a Request for Proposals to complete this work, which will make Gristedes and the Post Office more accessible for seniors and disabled residents and visitors.

Lighthouse Park

As we previously noted in this column, the Lighthouse Park has been recently re-opened after it suffered extensive damage as a result of Hurricane Sandy. We, unfortunately, still need to keep the southernmost part of the Park closed due to two timber footbridges that were washed away during the storm. We look forward to opening this portion of the Park as well and have issued a Request for Proposals to restore the bridges.

iDig2Learn Earth Day Event

Last month’s iDig2learn Earth Day event was a huge success. Families helped to beautify the Island by planting flowers around Gristede’s, and children expressed their creativity through arts and craft projects that can still be viewed inside the atrium of the Motorgate Parking Garage. We would like to thank Island resident Christina Delfico for spearheading this great event, as well all participants, volunteers and sponsors.

Potholes Repaired

Contractors working with RIOC’s Engineering Department have recently finished repairing over 100 potholes on the Island roads. While the work spanned the length of the Island, we encourage you to inform us if you notice any remaining potholes that need repair. You can let us know through SeeClickFix at http://rioc.ny.gov/RI311.htm and also through the iPhone, Android and Blackberry SeeClickFix apps, which can be downloaded at http://www.seeclickfix.com/apps.

Final Column and Welcome Charlene Indelicato

This is my final column as Acting CEO and President of RIOC. It has been an honor to serve in this role for the last seven months. My sincere gratitude goes to the terrific RIOC team for their continued commitment and tremendous efforts during this time to ensure that the Island continues to be a wonderful place for residents and visitors.
I welcome our new CEO and President, Charlene Indelicato, who brings with her a distinguished track record of public service. I look forward to working with Ms. Indelicato, and continuing to work with the RIOC Board and staff, to make the Island the best place it can be.

Mr. Lewis is continuing as Acting RIOC President until Charlene Indelicato takes over the permanent position of RIOC President in mid May.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Spring Activities, Main Street Retail Signage, Heightened Tram Security And Visit From The French

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

Spring Is Here

Any doubt that Spring has arrived on Roosevelt Island was erased last Saturday, when thousands of Island residents and visitors gathered for the Roosevelt Island Residents Association’s 3rd Annual Cherry Blossom Festival. This year’s event was an overwhelming success and attracted the largest crowds yet, spurred by nice weather and increased awareness that this tremendous celebration is not to be missed. Attendees of the festival sampled traditional Japanese food and drink, basked in the beauty of the Island’s cherry blossom trees, listened to world-class Japanese music performances, and generously made charitable contributions.

For more Spring fun on the Island, you’re encouraged to participate in iDig2Learn’s “Love Your Block, Love Your Earth” event on Saturday, April 20, beginning at 10:00 am and continuing throughout the afternoon. To learn more about this Earth Day celebration, which will include flower planting at the plaza in front of Gristedes and Motorgate, please contact iDig2Learn@gmail.com.

New Main Street Signage

Hudson Related Realty LLC (HRR) has commenced its retail makeover of the arcade, storefronts and signage on Main Street. Based on its mock-up at 568 Main Street, the company is introducing renovations throughout Main Street with modifications at the three other WIRE buildings. The project will include putting a new wood slat ceiling in the arcade areas, new lighting, new signage, refinishing the columns, and refinished storefronts. Retailers will have new custom made signage with their own logos and graphics, as you may have already noticed with the Subway deli and Main Street Sweets. HRR also plans to install new benches and possibly digital touch screen information kiosks, with the majority of the work scheduled to finish later this year.

French Delegation Visits Tram

The Roosevelt Island Tramway continues to be a world-renowned model for inexpensive, efficient and environmentally friendly urban public transportation. Last Friday, RIOC hosted a French delegation of four distinguished guests from the Grenoble-Isère Economic Development Agency, for a long-anticipated tour of our innovative Tram. The group, led by the Mayor of the town of Bourgoin-Jallieu, was extremely impressed by the Tram operation and by the rest of our beautiful Island, which they also toured.

Boston Marathon Bombings – Tram Security

I am deeply saddened by the tragic events that took place earlier this week at the Boston Marathon. It is truly a shame that such evil exists, but we must remember that there were a lot more individuals doing whatever they could to help the victims, than those creating the victims.

Unfortunately, these types of events create heightened security concerns and, as a result, we have taken steps to heighten Tram security. The RIOC Public Safety Department has assigned plain-clothes officers to perform patrols of both platforms of the Tram. PSD will provide periodic uniform presence as well. In addition, PSD will continue to be in contact with New York City Office of Emergency Management to communicate concerning security.

Everyone be safe.

Mr. Lewis is continuing as Acting RIOC President until Charlene Indelicato takes over the permanent position of RIOC President in mid May.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Cultural Center Renovation, Lighthouse Park Electrical Repairs, Steam Plant Request For Interest, Tennis Permits & More

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

In connection with our diligent efforts to ensure that Roosevelt Island’s infrastructure and public facilities are well maintained, below is an update on certain projects throughout Island. This week’s column concludes with news for tennis players who are undoubtedly looking forward to warmer weather.

Tram Enclosure Project

As part of our ongoing Tram Enclosure Project, we intend to repair and refinish floors at both Tram stations. We cannot, however, proceed until the temperature is consistently above 40 degrees, including the overnight hours. We hope to be able to commence this work by late April or early May.

Good Shepherd Community Center

This spring our contractor will recommence and complete its work at the Good Shepherd Community Center, including repointing the masonry facade and restoring the cupola. We share the community’s delight at the beautiful new slate shingle roof that was installed during the project’s earlier phase. We look forward to the finished product once this final phase is completed.

Z-Brick Reparations

In connection with repairs to roadways, sidewalks and pathways that RIOC undertakes on an as-needed basis, we intend to repair certain Z-bricks in the beginning of the spring. We are aware that the Z-bricks are cherished by many residents and look forward proceeding with this project.

Cultural Center Renovations

The demolition phase of the Cultural Center wrapped up on February 22. We have a hired an architect who will soon get started on restoring this vital community space. We are mindful of the importance and historical significance of this community space, and will continue to work diligently to ensure that the Cultural Center is restored as soon as possible.

Tennis Permits

Tennis permits for the new season will be available on the RIOC website beginning on March 18. Members who held onto their permits from last year need not come in for a new card; instead they can simply pay for this year and their card will automatically be updated.

Below is report from Mr. Lewis to the February 28 RIOC Board of Directors Meeting. Mr. Lewis reported that the Steam Plant will be decommissioned in the near future and RIOC will be issuing a Request For Expressions Of Interest regarding its future use in the next couple of weeks. Mr. Lewis also noted that repairs to electric cables damaged by Hurricane Sandy in Lighthouse Park will be completed later this spring. Hopefully, Lighthouse Park, which has been closed since last November, will then re-open.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Public Safety Demonstration, Recreational Hotline, Motorgate Murals & FDR Park Signage

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

I hope everyone and their loved ones made it through snowstorm Nemo safe and sound. All was well here on the Island, which is great news. Let's hope Mother Nature takes it easy on us for the rest of the winter.

PSD and Residents' Demonstration

We are all aware that a number of Island residents have expressed concerns regarding the RIOC Public Safety Department (PSD) and took part in a peaceful demonstration over the weekend at the Good Shepherd Plaza. We are mindful of these concerns and have taken steps to address the same. These steps include: internal review, deciding to hire an outside firm to conduct an operational audit of PSD, and referral of recent incidents to the Office of the New York State Inspector General for review.

Keeping Current on Island Issues

We have a very active and vibrant community here on Roosevelt Island. We encourage residents to use available resources to stay informed of Island issues and what we are doing to address them. A good way to keep current is to attend RIOC Board and Committee meetings, which are open to the public. Notices of these meetings are posted on the RIOC website, the front door at 591 Main Street and are communicated through our RIOC Advisories which are e-mailed to those who have signed up to receive alerts. If you cannot attend the Board or Committee meetings, they can be accessed on the RIOC website at RIOC.ny.gov. To receive RIOC Advisories, sign up at subcribe@RIOC.ny.gov.

Parks and Recreation Hotline

As we look forward to spring, the RIOC Parks and Recreation Department has updated its hotline to be your go-to source for information about the many wonderful indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities on Roosevelt Island. The new and improved hotline contains general information about the following resources: tennis permits, pool memberships, schedules for open swim, ping pong, open basketball, zumba, film permits, park hours and closures. To access the new hotline call 212-832-4514.

Murals at Motorgate

Longtime Island residents may recall the days many years ago when the Motorgate Garage housed art installations. We are pleased to announce that, through some creative repurposing, art will once again adorn the walls of Motorgate's atrium. Murals originally seen during the 2011 and 2012 Fall for Arts Festival, depicting popular images of Roosevelt Island, nature, cultural themes and abstract designs, will be installed at Motorgate early next week. Artists from Roosevelt Island and the Greater New York area painted the beautiful murals, which range in size from 4-by-8 feet to 4-by-16 feet. I would like to thank Tad Sudol, President of the RIVAA Gallery, for coming up with this creative proposal, and Erica-Spencer-EL, RIOC's Community Relations Specialist, for helping to make this a reality.

Four Freedoms Park Signs

The Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors has approved the installation of signage for Four Freedoms Park at sites throughout the Island. Aimed at helping visitors find their way to the Park, the signs will be posted inside the Tram station, on select lamp posts along Main street and at bus stop shelters. A banner will also be placed on the construction fence directly across from the subway station exit. We look forward to additional advances in general way-finding on the Island in the near future.

Flying Object Whizzes Past Acting RIOC President Don Lewis Nearly Hitting Him In Face - Not On Roosevelt Island But At Outdoor NYC Charity Hockey Game

According to  Bloomberg News:

Donald Lewis was startled by a flying object coming from the hockey rink.

“I thought a puck was going to hit me in the face,” said Lewis, general counsel and acting president of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp. “A bird flew by.”

Such are the quirks of outdoor hockey in New York, as 16 teams competed to raise money for charity over the last two days at Lasker Rink in Central Park. Teams came from as far away as Canada to help raise money for Ice Hockey in Harlem.

The event, put on for the seventh year by the Canadian Association of New York, raised as much as $30,000 for the non- profit group that gives disadvantaged kids a hockey community in which to grow up

“I’m not feeling great, but I’m hanging in there,” Lewis, 39, said in an interview before his third 40-minute game of the day, playing for a team sponsored by his former law firm, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. “The biggest problem is the time in between games. It’s hard to get the engine going again. I’m tight.”...

Click here for the entire Bloomberg News article and take a look at some of the action on the ice at Lasker Rink.



Looks like good training for RIOC Board Committee meetings.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Tram Ridership Statistics At Record High Numbers, Outdoor Movie Selections & More

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

I encourage you to review the January edition of RIOC’s newsletter Island News, available at rioc.ny.gov/pdf/IslandNewsJan13.pdf. The newsletter includes a profile of RIOC’s Transportation General Manager Cy Opperman, a look at the eventful first few months of Four Freedoms Park, as well as updates on RIOC’s latest construction and maintenance projects.

Tram Thrives with Record Ridership Numbers in 2012

Last year marked the second full year since our Tramway Modernization project was completed. For the second consecutive year, a record number of people rode the state-of-the-art Tram.  The total ridership for 2012 was 2,358,818, nearly a quarter of a million more riders than in 2011 and an average of more than 6,400 riders per day.

The Tram is not only an iconic symbol on the New York City skyline, it is an inspiration for leaders from around the world looking to bring similar innovative technology to their communities. Just this past week we proudly hosted a visitor from the Haitian Embassy who was interested in exploring the Tram.

As you likely know, earlier this week a Tram worker from Leitner-Poma of America injured his leg while performing routine inspection and maintenance. We are happy to report that we understand the injuries sustained were relatively minor.  We would like to thank all of those involved for handling the situation in commendable fashion.  We note that the inspection work was part of the diligent efforts of Leitner-POMA and RIOC to ensure that the Tram is always running safely and smoothly. Regular inspections and maintenance work are conducted on every inch of the system, including the wires, cars and the connections at the towers.

Planning Commission Hearing on Cornell Campus

The New York City Planning Commission and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development held a public hearing this past Wednesday addressing the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the future Cornell NYC Tech campus. RIOC representatives attended the meeting to remain cognizant of the community’s perspectives on the various aspects of the project.  Unfortunately, we cannot report on the hearing here due to the deadline for this column.

Submit Your Suggestions for Summer Outdoor Movie Series

RIOC’s Summer Outdoor Movie Series is one of the most anticipated traditions on Roosevelt Island. This summer will mark the Series’ fifth year and we’re giving Roosevelt Island residents the opportunity to submit suggestions for movies. I encourage you to send an email to SMS2013.Main591.RIOC@rioc.ny.gov with your favorite movie from each of the following genre categories: action/adventure, comedy, family/kids, fantasy, science-fiction, and drama. Alternatively, you can post your selections to the RIOC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RIOCNY. The deadline for submissions is Friday, March 1. Thank you to everyone who has already shared your favorite flicks!

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Playground Safety, Preparation For New Public Library At 504, Boat Sculpture Renovation, Maintenance At Southpoint Park And Tram Station Canopy Installation

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

Old Man Winter has indisputably arrived. As we all know, it has been absolutely frigid the last few days and current forecasts are calling for potential for heavy snow accumulation starting Friday. RIOC is well-prepared to keep the streets and sidewalks clean and our residents, business owners and visitors safe. Sign up at http://rioc.ny.gov/advisorybody.htm for our advisories concerning the weather and other important Island information.

Playground Safety

We were recently notified that the gate to Blackwell Playground was broken and that the swings were also in need of repairs. While we endeavor to timely provide requested repairs, when public safety is at stake, we act immediately. By the following day, the gate and swing were fixed and we had conducted an inspection of the entire playground.

If you see something that requires our attention – be it a pothole, z-brick, or park clean-up, please use our see-click-fix app at rioc.ny.gov/RI311.htm. In the event that safety is at stake, please call us immediately at 212-832-4545.

504 Main Street to Get Interior Upgrade

Over the next few months, we will be conducting interior demolition at 504 Main Street, getting the space – both lower and upper floors – ready for new tenants: The Child School and the relocated New York Public Library.

Boat Sculpture Restoration

In 1995, a beautiful boat sculpture was installed just northwest of The Octagon. The sculpture opened to the public in 1997. We are in the process of conducting repairs to the exterior of the sculpture. We expect the work to be completed in the Spring.

Southpoint Park Gets Ready for Warmer Weather

Although it is the dead of winter, we are already preparing for the warm months ahead by making sure our parks and green spaces look better than ever for our residents and visitors. In furtherance of this objective, we are currently pruning, cleaning and conducting general maintenance at the seven-acre Southpoint Park.

Canopy Installation – Tram Service Disruption

As noted in RIOC's advisories, we recently commenced work on the canopy installation for the Tram Enclosure Project.

The work is being done on weekdays during off-peak hours from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday- Friday, and is expected to be completed on February 6th. During these times, Tram service will be suspended; however, Red Bus service will be provided from Roosevelt Island to Manhattan. The Tram will operate on a normal schedule during the weekend.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island New Tram Bus Stop, Good Shepherd Roof Restoration, Motorgate Renovations And 2012 Review

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

I hope everyone had a healthy and happy New Year's, is sticking to their resolutions and enjoying 2013! Roosevelt Island certainly had an eventful 2012, highlighted by the opening of Four Freedoms Park, exciting progress on Cornell’s Tech campus plans, the historic Island House Affordability Plan, and many collaborative and successful community events. We will remember the devastation of Sandy, but also our community’s resilience and generosity in the aftermath. With much to look forward to in 2013, RIOC continues to work diligently to make it yet another prosperous year for Roosevelt Island.

New Bus Stop Location by the Tram

As you likely know, we have moved the Tram West bus stop from its previous location near the Roosevelt Island Historical Society kiosk back to its original location just outside the entrance of the Tram Plaza, by the Tram Ramp. We believe the new stop will be more convenient for passengers since they will no longer need to hurry down the hill from the Tram to catch the bus by the kiosk. I would like to say a special thank you to Cy Opperman, RIOC's Transportation General Manager, for spearheading the efforts to get this done.

Roof Replacement at Good Shepherd Community Center

We are pleased to note that the installation of the beautiful new slate shingles atop the Good Shepherd Community Center is complete. The building was designated as a historical landmark in 1975 and the original slate material is fitting for such an important Island site.

Motorgate Renovations

Our renovation project at the Motorgate parking garage is underway. The extensive renovations are twofold: waterproofing on the third and fourth floors will prevent leaks onto the lower levels; meanwhile the installation of new LED light fixtures on each floor and the stairwells will increase visibility. The LED lights are environmentally friendly, as well as more durable and cost efficient than the outdated incandescent lights. The project will require certain parking disruptions and we will provide advanced notice concerning the same.

RIOC on Twitter and Facebook

For the latest information about news and events on Roosevelt Island, follow RIOC on Twitter @RIOCny and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RIOCNY.

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

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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.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Hurricane Sandy Damage, Team Rubicon Hurricane Relief Efforts, Blackwell Park Cleanup, Cultural Center Flooding Renovation, RICC Cornell Meeeting, Tree Lighting & Happy Thanksgiving

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

The State of New York, including the Roosevelt Island Community, has been through a rough stretch with Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath. Be that as it may, we still have much to be thankful for, including the fact that no one on the Island was injured as a result of the storm. With that in mind, I want to wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving from RIOC.

Hurricane Sandy Damage

Over the past three weeks, we have assessed damage to the Island caused by the storm. The lower locations on the Island experienced three to five feet of flooding and approximately 21 Island trees were lost. We are continuing to inspect the trees that withstood the storm to make sure that none are in danger of falling. As I mentioned in my last column, we are eligible for federal assistance from FEMA because we followed the agency’s emergency command procedures.

Team Rubicon Relief Efforts – Donations Needed

RIOC has partnered with Team Rubicon USA to help people in New York City who are suffering as a result of the storm. We are collecting donated canned goods, baby food, baby clothes, diapers, winter coats, batteries, toiletries, cleaning supplies, garbage bags, shovels and more. Team Rubicon USA is transporting the items to areas hardest hit by the storm, including Staten Island and the Rockaways. The Roosevelt Island community has responded with great generosity, and we have received an overwhelming amount of supplies. However, help is still needed and we are continuing to accept donations from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday at our 591 Main Street office. If you are unable to donate during those hours, please bring items to the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department at 550 Main Street anytime after 5:00 p.m. For more information and a complete list of items that are needed, please call 212-832-4540 ext 349.

Blackwell Park Cleanup

RIOC was pleased to team up with the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation, the Roosevelt Island Residents Association and the Main Street Theatre and Dance Alliance to clean up Blackwell Park on Sunday morning. About 20 volunteers – children and adults – bagged 80 bags of leaves and branches, and enjoyed the gorgeous fall weather. We appreciate everyone’s efforts.

Cultural Center Renovation

Last week RIOC met with representatives from the Main Street Theater Group and the Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation to discuss the progress of the renovation of the Cultural Center. The renovation requires two distinct steps to return the Center to a usable condition. First, there is remediation, which encompasses the demolition and removal of all the damaged flooring, walls, ceilings, and the removal of molds from the affected areas, and establishes the extent of the renovation work. The second phase, will involve the renovation of the facility. We will continue to work with both groups to help them find alternative space on the Island while the work is ongoing.

Roosevelt Island Community Coalition

RIOC recently had a productive meeting with the Roosevelt Island Community Coalition (RICC) to discuss community items of interest and concern related to the Cornell-Technion campus. RIOC is also involved in discussions with Cornell concerning infrastructure and additional issues related to the project. We look forward to continued coordination between RICC and RIOC concerning the campus.

Tree Lighting

We invite you to join us for our annual Tree Lighting event on Friday, December 7th at 7:00 p.m. at Blackwell Plaza. The Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance and children from Roosevelt Island Youth Center will provide entertainment. We also expect Santa Claus to stop by and be available to take pictures. We encourage you to attend and celebrate the holiday season with the Roosevelt Island community.

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Hurricane Sandy Status, Meeting With Governor Cuomo's Secretary Larry Schwartz, Cornell NYC Tech, FDR Memorial, Halloween Parade And Thanks RIOC Employees For Work During Storm

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

First and foremost, I hope that everyone in the Roosevelt Island community and their loved ones remained safe through Hurricane Sandy. I would like to extend a special thank you to the Corporation’s Public Safety, Grounds, Transportation and Engineering teams who all went above and beyond the call of duty, and in certain instances worked tirelessly through the night to keep our wonderful Island safe during this tumultuous time. A list of RIOC employees who were part of this tremendous effort and spent the majority of the storm away from their families, and on the Island, is included at the end of this column. Thank you all.

Hurricane Sandy

In order to effectively respond to the storm, RIOC employed the emergency management procedures we learned during Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) training attended by certain staff last year. We established an Emergency Command Center at the Public Safety Department’s (PSD) headquarters, and coordinated with the City’s Office of Emergency Management, NYPD and FDNY before, during and after the storm. We also effectively applied lessons learned during Hurricane Irene, such as establishing alternate emergency phone numbers in the event of an outage with the main PSD line. By effectively implementing FEMA’s procedures, we are eligible for federal reimbursement funds to help cover the costs incurred as a result of the storm.

We spent much of Tuesday and Wednesday assessing damage to the Island. Lighthouse Park experienced substantial flooding, there was damage to multiple Island trees, and certain locations on the Island lost power. We’ve also had to close the Island parks, but hope that both Southpoint and Four Freedoms Park will reopen by the time this column is distributed in The Wire on Friday.

We are pleased to note we have not received any reports of injuries incurred on the Island as a result of the storm. We are also pleased to report that both the Red Bus and Tram were back in service as of 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday and complimentary rides offered on both services on Tuesday evening and all day Wednesday.

RIOC Board Meets with Secretary to Gov. Cuomo, Larry Schwartz

Larry Schwartz, Secretary to Governor Andrew Cuomo, attended the October 25 meeting of the RIOC Board of Directors. The meeting was highly productive and Secretary Schwartz discussed Island issues with the Board and addressed Island residents in attendance. We are pleased to note that Mr. Schwartz made clear that he and the Administration intend to work closely and collaboratively with the RIOC Board and Island residents going forward. Mr. Schwartz’s remarks are important affirmations of the Administration’s commitment to the Roosevelt Island community.

Cornell Update

On October 22, representatives from Cornell provided an update on campus plans at a meeting of Community Board 8. The representatives listened to concerns and answered questions from Roosevelt Island residents. I can assure the Island community that RIOC is deeply engaged with Cornell and the City on the planning of the campus and its potential effects on Island infrastructure. We are fully aware of the magnitude of this project and of the legitimate concerns Island residents have concerning the same. As noted, we have been working closely with Cornell and the City on infrastructure (as well as other) issues in order to ensure that the community’s concerns, as well as RIOC’s, are properly heard and properly addressed. We will continue to listen carefully to feedback from the Island community as we move forward on this exciting project.

Four Freedoms Park Draws Big Crowds

As expected, Four Freedoms Park is proving to be quite a draw, with over 3,500 visitors from Wednesday, October 24 (public opening date) through Sunday October 28. Guests have included visitors from all over the world, including Brazil, Argentina, Japan, Norway, Italy and France, as well as visitors from various states, and of course, a slew of New Yorkers. Other visitors of note include, Jim Roosevelt, grandson of Franklin and Eleanor, accompanied by his wife and daughter, Gordon Davis – NYC Parks Commissioner in the 80’s – with Diane Coffey, Chief of Staff to Mayor Ed Koch, and The President of Salk Institute – the famous Louis Kahn building in La Jolla, California – attended with his family.

The park will be recruiting volunteers and training tour guides who can educate visitors about the legacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the architecture of Louis Kahn and the rich history of Roosevelt Island. For more information, you can sign up for updates at www.fdrfourfreedomspark.org/page/s/get-involved-with-the-park.

Halloween Parade a Success

I had an absolute blast celebrating Halloween with RIOC staff and the rest of the community last Saturday at the Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade & Extravaganza – in case you didn’t recognize me and other RIOC employees, we were dressed as Big Bad (Friendly) Pirates!!! The weather was perfect so we were able to hold the event outdoors for the first time in years. We enjoyed an exceptional performance from the Brooklyn-based Approaching Storm Marching Band comprised of middle-school and high-school children.

We were very pleased to see RIOC Council Member Jessica Lappin and Senator Jose M. Serrano in attendance with their families, joining hundreds of costumed Roosevelt Islanders for the parade and festivities at Capobianco Field. We also would like to thank Urban American and the Roosevelt Island Youth Center for co-sponsoring this free-for-the-public event and for helping to make it the Biggest and Best Parade & Extravaganza of All-Time!!!

(Thank you to the following RIOC employees who worked through Hurricane Sandy: Public Safety: Keith Guerra, Rene Bryan, Estrella Suarez, Wanda Coleman, Gary Yee, Rodell Lindsey, Raul Hernandez, Patricia Gamble, Lilia Paguada, Christian Gilmore, Jeffrey Laszczych, Ralph Torrens, Lisa Williams, Kionna Wray, Steven Cohen, Deborah Viel, Luis Candelario; Engineering: Alex Snedkov, Robert Greene, Santo Verta, Juan Rivera, Rajcoomar Megnath, Alex Banashko; Grounds: Fernando Vargas, Toni Tinoco, Fidel Cintron, Juan Cruz, Chris Gonzalez, Jamal Perry; Transportation Cyril “Cy” Opperaman, Shamsodeen Satar, Joe Marino, Joe Franchi. I would also like to thank Community Relations Specialist Erica Spencer-El who did a tremendous job of keeping the Island community informed of Sandy related issues.)

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Roosevelt Island Cornell Campus Renderings, Island House Affordability Plan, FDR Memorial Dedication & Halloween Extravaganza

 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.

I just attended the dedication ceremony for Four Freedoms Park, and both the Park and the ceremony were simply magnificent. It was an absolute pleasure to have Tom Brokaw as a Master of Ceremonies and hear President Bill Clinton, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Governor Andrew Cuomo and Ambassador William J. Vanden Heuvel address the captivated audience. The Four Freedoms Park team, the RIOC Board of Directors and RIOC staff all did an outstanding job in working cooperatively to get this done. I encourage the community to take the opportunity to see the Park on Saturday, October 20, which is Roosevelt Island Residents’ Day at the Park, featuring an Open House for resident preview from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

New Cornell Campus Renderings

Earlier this week Cornell University unveiled new renderings of its future campus, which will be located on the southern part of Roosevelt Island. The designs are the most detailed we have seen to date and confirm Cornell’s commitment to an open campus that integrates the rest of the Island and New York City with the campus. For example, the renderings show a pedestrian walkway connecting an outdoor plaza and a green esplanade that offer wonderful views of Manhattan, Queens and the East River. RIOC is thrilled that the plan calls for a series of gorgeous public areas that will be open to Island residents and visitors, and a public café on the main academic building's ground floor that will run into the courtyard. The net-zero energy academic building, with its rooftop photovoltaic canopy, is in line with previous green technology innovations on Roosevelt Island. We look forward to continuing to work with Cornell as their exciting vision becomes reality.

Island House Affordability Plan

We are very pleased to note that, as result of several years of negotiations, Island House, a 400-unit affordable housing development on Roosevelt Island, will continue to remain affordable to its residents for the next 30 years. The Island House deal is historic in nature and marks the first successful conversion of a State Mitchell-Lama rental to affordable home ownership as a solution to a market-rate exit from Mitchell-Lama. Without the State’s intervention in extending affordability, apartments within Island House, a development at the threshold of leaving the Mitchell-Lama program, would have been allowed to be rented at market rates, severely affecting residents.

Under the Island House Affordability Plan, Island House, constructed in 1975 as one of the first four modern housing developments on Roosevelt Island, will exit the Mitchell-Lama program. The Affordability Plan, however, protects all current tenants by allowing them to remain in their apartments with future rent increases calculated in a manner similar to rent stabilized apartments. Rent protection will remain in effect for 30 years. The owner of Island House will apply to convert the building to Co-Op ownership. If the conversion is approved, current tenants will be offered the option to purchase their apartments at below market prices.

The Affordability Plan was initially drafted and agreed upon by the Island House owner and tenants. The Plan was later approved by a multi-agency working group that included: RIOC, which administers operations on Roosevelt Island; New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), the State’s housing agency, which administers both the Mitchell-Lama program and the State’s rent laws; and Empire State Development (ESD), which in 1969, as the Urban Development Corporation, first leased the land under Island House from the City of New York. The Affordability Plan was the result of several years of negotiations among the agencies, the Island House Tenants Association, and owners’ representatives.

Halloween Parade & Extravaganza

We are pleased to announce that the annual Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade & Extravaganza will be held on Saturday, October 27, 2012. The parade will begin at 12:00 pm at Blackwell House and end at Capobianco Field. It will feature games, rides, magic shows and live entertainment. All activities are free of charge. In the event of rain, the extravaganza will be held inside PS/IS 217. Participants are strongly encouraged to dress in costumes.

Our last Island event, the Fall for Arts Festival, was a smashing success with over 2,000 people in attendance! We would like the Parade & Extravaganza to be just as successful (if not more), and hope to see you there!

Report From Acting RIOC President Don Lewis - Introduces Himself, Roosevelt Island Tram Ridership Soaring, Fall For Arts, And Run For Congo Women

 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.

As the new Acting CEO and President of RIOC, I want to take this opportunity to reintroduce myself to the Roosevelt Island community. For the past year, I have served as RIOC's Vice President and General Counsel working on matters involving real estate transactions, preservation of affordable housing, labor and employment, Board resolutions, litigation, and have conferred with high level government officials concerning various issues related to the Island.

There is a wealth of excitement on the horizon for the Island, including the new retail shops coming to Main Street, the opening of Four Freedoms Park, and the construction of the Cornell/Technion campus. I look forward to continuing to work cohesively with the RIOC Board, RIOC staff and Island residents to develop and implement innovative strategies that will enhance our wonderful community.

Tram Ridership Continues to Soar

As we enter October, which is historically the busiest month for the Aerial Tramway, it is an opportune time to review current ridership numbers for 2012. Continuing a yearlong trend, the number of riders has soared this summer as compared to the previous summer; a total of 629,854 people rode the tram from June through August, which is a 12 percent increase from the same period a year ago. In addition, year-to-date ridership has increased to over 1.6 million riders from January through August, representing an average of 6,600 riders per day and a 20 percent increase from the same period in 2011.

We recently renovated the passenger waiting areas in both tram stations, and are committed to ensuring that the tram continues to offer an optimal urban transportation experience.

Fall for Arts Festival

RIOC’s annual Fall for Arts Festival has become an Island tradition that residents, as well as visitors, look forward to every year. This year the Festival will take place at Southpoint Park on Saturday, October 6, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, rain or shine. The Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association will offer free hands-on arts and crafts workshops for all ages, and we are thrilled that many local artists will be on hand to exhibit their work. Delicious food and drink will be available for purchase and there will be complimentary giveaways, entertainment and more. We look forward to seeing you at the Festival.

Run for Congo Women 5K

The Fifth Annual Run for Congo Women 5K scheduled for Saturday, October 6, will be a terrific opportunity to exercise and enjoy the Roosevelt Island scenery, while supporting a great cause. The course will track the perimeter of the Island and finish at Blackwell Park where food, drinks, gift bags, and music will await the participants. To date, entrants have raised over $33,000 in connection with Women for Women International’s efforts to help Congolese survivors of war and civil strife.

The run is scheduled to begin at the Firefighters’ Field at 9:00 am. If you want to join the hundreds of participants, please visit www.runforcongowomen.org or register on Saturday beginning at 8:30 am.