PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at the RIOC Operations Office, 680 Main St, Roosevelt Island, New York 10044.
4. Climate Adaptation and How It Affects Roosevelt Island - Frank Farance
5. Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee.
The Open Meetings Law of the State of New York requires that all public bodies conduct meetings, convened for the purpose of officially conducting public business, in a manner open to attendance by the general public to observe and listen.
The link to a webcast will be posted on RIOC’s website by 12:00 pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
Roosevelt Island resident Amanda Talmadge Sadlier reported on Christmas Day:
Happy Holidays.
Funny Christmas moment: Just saw a Roosevelt Island Red Bus 50 miles East of
the Ohio border heading East on I-80.
Any ideas!?! Lol. Our whole car saw it!
I replied:
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family too. It may be one
of the new Red Buses on order that is scheduled to be delivered in January.
Maybe out for a test ride? Did you get a photo by any chance?
Ms Sadlier answered:
Lol. That's what we were wondering. No photo because we were driving the
other way...I wonder where they are ordered from??? Because it was so far
away and surprised that a test run would be happening on Christmas morning,
especially in this part of the country that would almost all be celebrating!
Anyway, thought it was funny and worth sharing!
We can drive it back if they'd like to get it there a few days early!
I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Communications Director Bryant Daniels about the
Red Bus spotted on a
highway in Ohio.
According to Mr Daniels:
Man, you got eyes everywhere. What they saw were the new buses on the way to
the Island from Minnesota, where they were manufactured. Christmas came
early and we actually took delivery of them over the Holiday.
We still need to do some work before they hit the road but they are now on
the Island.
They still need to be inspected, registered and test driven. I believe we
still need to add the GPS tracking.
Here's one of the two new Roosevelt Island Red Buses
Among the items on the
Agenda
is an Update on Roosevelt Island Tram Operations.
There is no issue which has decreased the quality of life
and angered more Roosevelt Island residents than the long lines
and unsafe platforms
from overcrowding by
sightseeing tourists
on the Roosevelt Island Tram.
In slightly over 1 month's time,
over 2200 people have signed the Trampled By Tourists, Priority Boarding for Residents and Workers on the Roosevelt Island Tram petition.
According to the Petition organizers:
Roosevelt Island Residents and Workers Need Priority Boarding of the Roosevelt
Island Tram
New York Transportation Law § 102
“No common carrier shall make or give any undue or unreasonable preference
or advantage to any person or corporation or to any locality or to any
particular description of traffic in any respect whatsoever, or subject any
particular person or corporation or locality or any particular description
of traffic, to any undue or unreasonable prejudice or disadvantage in any
respect whatsoever.”
It doesn’t say there can’t be a preference shown. It says there can’t be an
“undue or unreasonable preference”.
The tram is no longer available to residents and workers - it has become a
tourist attraction.
It is *reasonable* to give residents and workers priority boarding and
return the tram to its original intended use. Urban Transportation.
RI has very limited reliable public transportation options, with over 12,000
residents and hundreds of workers - there's one subway station, with only
one line, a very limited ferry service and the tramway. With the tramway
inundated by tourists we are left with a single subway station and are
facing a transportation crisis, often made worse when there is a subway
shutdown.
Further, the RI Tram is funded by the residents through our land leases and
not by New York City or New York State.
Our Position
RIOC has taken the position that it would be illegal to offer priority
boarding of the Roosevelt Island Tram to island residents and workers based
on this:
“No common carrier shall make or give any undue or unreasonable preference
or advantage to any person or corporation or to any locality or to any
particular description of traffic in any respect whatsoever, or subject any
particular person or corporation or locality or any particular description
of traffic, to any undue or unreasonable prejudice or disadvantage in any
respect whatsoever.” New York Transportation Law § 102.
We disagree.
Giving island residents and workers priority boarding is not an “undue or
unreasonable preference.”
It’s all about the phrase “undue or unreasonable”.
If the law had been written without that phrase, then the RIOC position
would be correct. No common carrier could give any advantage or
preference. However, that’s not what the law says. The law appears to
envisage some sort of exception as long as it is reasonable (not
unreasonable, or not undue). Laws are drafted carefully and thought is
given to each word.
The Roosevelt Island Tram is Urban Transportation
“The original Roosevelt Island aerial tramway - the first tram in the
country to be used for urban transportation – was opened in May 1976” (Source: RIOC website)
The Roosevelt Island Tram has ceased to be available to residents and
workers as a reliable method of transportation
A combination of factors has led to a massive increase in the use of the
tram by tourists, particularly since the tram has recently appeared in a
number of popular “Top 10 things to do in NYC” lists and videos. The
platforms are crowded and lines often form outside the platform. What used
to be the case only during certain limited times of day and certain times
of year is virtually now a constant.
Island residents and workers now struggle to get on to the tram, often
starting in the morning till late into the night. Many people have given
up on the tram while others struggle through the chaos
This is particularly onerous for our neighbors who may be elderly or
unable to walk or stand easily. The island is home to a lot of elderly
folks and folks with limited mobility. The same is also true for families
with young children.
Priority Boarding for residents and workers is reasonable given the change
in ridership
Residents and workers are now excluded from one of their limited modes of
transportation to and from home or work, children school, or nearby
shopping places.
The tourists are not using the tram as a mode of urban transportation, but
rather as an opportunity to get great pictures of NYC during the crossing.
Almost all of the tourists turn around and head straight back to
Manhattan. That is tourism, not transportation.
Precedents for this exist, such as:
In 1976, “residents were issued priority passes for the tram and a minibus
that travels from the tramway station through the island's Main Street.”
due to the number of tourists displacing residents.
Source: NY Times.
On December 7 2023, Governor Hochul announced preferential treatment for
residents of Queens and The Bronx who use the Henry Hudson Bridge and
Cross Bay Bridge with a Toll rebate program which is not available for
those who do not live in Queens or the Bronx.
Release by NY State.
As previously reported, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, NYC Council Member Julie Menin and former Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney have expressed support for providing some sort of Roosevelt Island Tram boarding preference for residents and workers
During the December 7, 2024 Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine told me he supports a Tram Boarding priority for Roosevelt Island residents and workers too.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Operations Advisory Committee is meeting 5:00 PM Wednesday May 1 at the Good Shepherd Community Center (543 Main Street).
Please be advised that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Community Center, 543 Main St, Roosevelt Island, New York 10044.
AGENDA:
Update by Hudson Related on the Commercial Spaces Availability and the Selection Process for Commercial Tenants;
Bus Contingency - Overview of an Option to Lease a Bus;
Update on Emergency Repairs (Eleanor’s Pier);
Update on Pipes Replacement for AVAC;
Presentation by Director Fhala on the Tram and the Motorgate Operations; and
Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee.
During the last RIOC Real Estate Development Advisory Committee meeting on March 14, 2024, RIOC Directors Fay Christian and Ben Fhala asked for information about how Main Street Retail Master Leaseholder Hudson Related selects tenants for any vacant stores.
Tomorrow they can ask their questions and we'll see how Hudson Related answers.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) Board of Directors
received notice of several employee concerns about the RIOC workplace. The
Board has determined that it is necessary to conduct a review of these
concerns by way of an outside professional. During this review, Shelton
Haynes (RIOC CEO) and Gretchen Robinson (RIOC General Counsel) will be
placed on administrative paid leave.
During this period of review, the day-to-day operations of RIOC will be
overseen by an interim leadership team that includes Dhruvika Patel Amin
(RIOC’s Chief Financial Officer & Vice President) and Gerrald Ellis
(RIOC’s Assistant Vice President & Deputy General Counsel). In addition,
RIOC Board member and Audit Committee Chair, Howard Polivy, will serve as a
dedicated Board member liaison and will provide additional support to the
interim leadership. No further comments about this matter will be made by
the RIOC Board until the review is completed. We thank all of our RIOC staff
for your full cooperation and support during this period of time.
The RIOC interim leadership team of Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Dhruvika Patel Amin
and Assistant Vice President (AVP) & Deputy General Counsel
Gerrald Ellis, together with Communications Director Bryant Daniels, participated in the
January 18 Community Board 8 (CB8)
Roosevelt Island Committee meeting
last evening chaired by Roosevelt Island resident Paul Krikler.
Ms Amin and Mr Ellis introduced themselves and provided some personal
background information during the meeting. According to Ms Amin:
I am the CFO and VP of RIOC. I joined in September 2023...
... My background is in financial and operational management. I've been
responsible for accounting, tax, audit, human resources administration,
investment reporting matters and charitable philanthropic affairs.
I grew up in Queens and always thought of Roosevelt Island as a green space
surrounded by water that provides peace and tranquility and beautiful views.
I chose to work at RIOC for these reasons in addition to giving back to the
community, to work with the public and be a part of the corporation's
mission. I hope to bridge the gap between RIOC and the public.
I hope to learn a lot from this meeting. Just know that RIOC is under new
leadership and we're more solutions oriented. If you reach out to us, you
will definetely receive a response. I hope to work with you very closely to
meet our objectives.
According to Mr Ellis:
I am the Deputy General Counsel of RIOC.
... I live in Astoria, right over the Bridge. It's a half hour walk over the
Bridge. I have a background in affordable housing....
The things that drew me to Roosevelt Island?
I have a long connection professionally with Roosevelt Island. I worked on
the financing of Riverwalk 8. I used to work with Related Management Company
and briefly worked on the lease of Riverwalk 7.
I would come to Roosevelt Island a lot to ride a bike. It's a great place to
ride a bike. There's not a lot of cars and it's beautiful.
I honestly believe in good government... and believe in the mission of it.
That's what attracted me to Roosevelt Island...
The onus is on RIOC to be out there and to be available. I understand
that. There's been many years of tension building up. I understand we need
to be the party to break the ice and to be out there and be available to you
all. You'll see us on the Island, out and about. Please stop me and tell me
your thoughts about everything
I'm genuinely curious to hear people's opinions, complaints and suggestions.
I really am....
Meet the new interim RIOC leadership team of Ms Amin and Mr Ellis.
Click on the beginning of the video to watch the Community Board 8 Roosevelt
Island Committee full discussion of a variety of local issues including the
Tram and Red Bus.
CB 8 Chair Paul Krikler remarked today:
Yesterday we had a very positive meeting with RIOC leadership. I think it's
fair to say that this marked the start of a reset of the relationship between
residents and RIOC.
Mr Krikler is also the
organizer of the petition drive
started last October under the prior RIOC administration that called for the
election of RIOC Directors and:
Based upon the last few days, it appears Mr Krikler's petition request
for a functioning and competent RIOC is off to a good start.
Ms Amin and Mr Ellis also participated in a frank and open discussion with
Roosevelt Island residents, Board Directors and local media during an informal
meeting organized by RIOC Director Ben Fhala which took place immediately after
a contentious RIOC Operations Committee meeting on January 17.
It was a very productive meeting and an example of positive community
engagement by RIOC, a welcome change from the previous administration under
Shelton Haynes.
Watch what happened.
Immediately before this informal meeting, the RIOC Board Of Directors
Operations Advisory Committee (OAC)
met for the first time since Jun 2021. OAC Chair Fay Christian immediately made it clear at the
beginning of the meeting that no questions would be taken from RIOC Directors
who were not members of the Operations Committee nor from any residents
attending the meeting. Ms Christian emphasized that only OAC committee members
could ask questions during presentations by RIOC department staffers.
RIOC Board Director Ben Fhala, who is not a member of the OAC, tried several times to ask questions and
participate in the meeting but was refused participation by Ms
Christian.
I asked Ms Christian why she was not allowing questions from anyone other than
the Committee members pointing out to her that in the past it was a common
practice for anyone attending RIOC Committee meetings to ask questions or
comment. Ms Christian responded that was true if the Committee chose to do so
but for today she chooses not to.
Watch what happened.
At the end of the Operations Committee meeting, Ms Christian and Mr Ellis
appeared to suggest the next meeting would return to the practice of allowing
questions and comments from non committee members.
It's a good start for the new interim RIOC leadership.
Folks, representatives of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will now
be attending our monthly CB8 RI meetings again starting tomorrow. This is a
very positive step following the announcement yesterday regarding management.
I encourage people to come along and share ideas, thoughts and concerns
especially regarding the Tram and Red Bus. The meeting is at 630pm and it is
on Zoom.
During today's RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting, RIOC Directors and
Staff discussed the possibility of shading the Roosevelt Island Tram Cabin
windows to discourage the long tram lines
Honestly, tourists, what brings you to Roosevelt Island? Our wide open
spaces? Our fine dining? Our breathtaking vistas, perhaps? Is it really
worth it? All you're doing is making our lives miserable by cramming the
tram while our subway service is on the fritz.
https://t.co/vx6DUCSoGJpic.twitter.com/WFShdWdkfp
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the
RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 4:00
p.m. at the RIOC’s Operations Office, 680 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New
York 10044.
AGENDA:
1. Departmental Updates
2. Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee
* * *
The Open Meetings Law of the State of New York requires that all public
bodies conduct meetings, convened for the purpose of officially conducting
public business, in a manner open to attendance by the general public to
observe and listen...
But it could be much more than the items listed in the Agenda.
Ben Fhala was
among the three local residents, including
Lydia Tang
and
Dr Michal Melamed,
appointed
to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)
Board of Directors
last June. During the last 7 months, these three new directors have attempted,
with varying degrees of success, to bring some transparency and oversight to
RIOC....
The Operations Committee is the ideal platform to address the business
item we previously discussed. During the last public board meeting, I
inquired about the $170k contract with First Page Management, specifically
questioning whether its main focus was to hinder or diminish the reach of
articles about
@Haynes, Shelton J (RIOC) and
@Jamal, Akeem (RIOC) published by Roosevelt Island media outlets, specifically
Roosevelt Island Daily and Roosevelt Islander Online. The response, after
some back and forth, directed me to the Operations Committee, emphasizing
that such questions are better addressed there.
Fortunately, after seven months, we are finally convening an Operations
Committee meeting, and it appears the agenda is not densely populated.
Despite obstacles from
@Haynes, Shelton J (RIOC)/
@Robinson, Gretchen (RIOC) with the active support of
@Visnauskas, RuthAnne (HCR), Dr. Melamed has generously allowed me to use her chair for this session
to conduct this critical engagement with the public and staff
members.
While the specific topics remain uncertain and potential opposition from
Shelton Haynes or RuthAnne Visnauskas looms, I am optimistic that your
attendance will draw sufficient attention. Positive pressure exerted on
our elected officials, who genuinely care about our residents and RIOC's
well-being, may prompt them to send representation. Ideally, this could
encourage RuthAnne Visnauskas to officially include this item on the agenda or, if not, make it
publicly clear that she does not prioritize RIOC's core goal of serving
the community. I have faith that a bit of political pressure can redirect
her focus from lawyers and advisors whispering in the silence.
Though it's challenging to set clear agendas, here are a few bullet
points for our conversation with the public and staff in the upcoming
meeting:
Reset with Media: Explore how we can engage with
local media, define terms for both media and RIOC to benefit our
communities. If Shelton Haynes refuses engagement, we'll discuss how resident board members
can negotiate these terms.
Work Environment: Investigate why staff members are
apprehensive about interacting with community members, board members,
and the media. Brainstorm solutions to reset this potentially hostile
work environment.
Engagement with Paul representing community board #8: Discuss
the structure of long-term engagement with Paul's committee work,
debating whether it should involve staff members, board members, or
both.
First Page Management Contract: If time permits, delve into the
details of the contract and it's implementation —its purpose, ethics,
potential damage to the relationship with local media—and strategize on
taking ownership, preventing such behaviors, or understanding the
rationale behind them and support the contract.
Communication Practices: Discuss the language and repetition in
RIOC announcements, addressing concerns such as why they start with
"Shelton presents" and why they lack signatures or clear ownership.
Explore how board members can voice objections if/when needed.
These are initial topics, and the discussion may evolve based on emerging
questions by the invited guests and public. I am hopeful for an engaging
conversation with all invited members, leading to impactful conclusions
beneficial for RIOC and the communities we serve.
Looking forward to your participation and the collaborative exchange.
As such, I expect this to be added into the agenda and it if does not I
will pick up the lead once the scheduled items conclude. adding the
agenda again as an attachment.
Thanks,
Ben Fhala*
Resident Board Member
*Disclaimer: All statements made by Ben Fhala are made in his
capacity as a RIOC Resident Board member. He does not represent the
entirety of RIOC or the full board but serves as a Resident Board
member, offering information to the community and its
stakeholders.
Last December 5, I asked RIOC President Shelton Haynes and the RIOC Board:
RIOC Directors
During the November 14 RIOC Board meeting, Director Ben Fhala asked RIOC CFO
Dhruvika Patel Amin if she was aware of the $170 thousand contract with
First Page Management LLC doing business as Status Labs.(see video link here)
Ms Amin answered that she was not aware of the contract but she would look
into it and get back to Mr Fhala.
Did RIOC Board members received any answer from RIOC's CFO or anyone else to
Mr Fhala's question about the First Page Management contract or any further
information regarding any practice by RIOC to engage in Search Engine
Optimization practices for the purpose of enhancing the Corporation's
reputation or any of its employees including RIOC President Shelton Haynes?
During the November 14 RIOC Board meeting, RIOC President Shelton Haynes
announced that Assistant VP of Communications Akeem Jamal is no longer
working at RIOC.
(See video link here)
Was Mr Jamal's leaving RIOC after a little more than one year related to
this contract?
Also, what is the dollar amount of a contract that does not have to be
approved by the RIOC Board of Directors. My understanding is that this
contract was not approved by the RIOC Board. Is that correct? If the contract
was not approved by the RIOC Board, why not and who approved it?
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) Board of Directors received notice of several employee concerns about the RIOC workplace. The Board has determined that it is necessary to conduct a review of these concerns by way of an outside professional. During this review, Shelton Haynes (RIOC CEO) and Gretchen Robinson (RIOC General Counsel) will be placed on administrative paid leave.
During this period of review, the day-to-day operations of RIOC will be overseen by an interim leadership team that includes Dhruvika Patel Amin (RIOC’s Chief Financial Officer & Vice President) and Gerrald Ellis (RIOC’s Assistant Vice President & Deputy General Counsel). In addition, RIOC Board member and Audit Committee Chair, Howard Polivy, will serve as a dedicated Board member liaison and will provide additional support to the interim leadership. No further comments about this matter will be made by the RIOC Board until the review is completed. We thank all of our RIOC staff for your full cooperation and support during this period of time.
I respect the decision of the RIOC Board, which exists to look after the wellbeing of Roosevelt Island. Now, we must await the conclusion of the investigation. The Board has access to information and details to which I am not privy. However, I do know that RIOC is a public benefit corporation, and it is the responsibility of each of its employees, from top to bottom, as public servants, to act in the best interest of the community. I will continue to do all I can to assure RIOC functions as it should, particularly during this challenging time.
Since that time, the
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp
(RIOC), Main Street Retail Master Leaseholder
Hudson Related, local politicians and residents have been unable to persuade any bank to open
on Roosevelt Island.
During yesterday's
RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting, RIOC President Shelton Haynes and Chief Financial Officer John O'Reilly
reported that banks refuse to open a branch on Main Street.
However, there is interest in opening a bank branch near the Roosevelt Island
Transportation Hubs, Tram, Subway and Ferry in Southtown near the Riverwalk
Buildings, Cornell Tech and the newly opened Graduate Hotel.
RIOC plans to offer space in the renovated Sportspark building to a bank that
may be interested in the location.
Upon hearing of RIOC's plan, RIOC Directors Michael Shinozaki and David Kraut
warned of expected community opposition to placing a bank in Sportspark,
instead of on Main Street where most of the residents who have been asking for
a bank branch live. Mr Shinozaki said:
...The perception problem you're going to have is that this is a facility
being put in for the benefit of Cornell and not for the residents of the
Island...
Mr Kraut added:
... It's no good putting banks in Sportpark when the people live on Main
Street... We always have to be careful who we're carrying water for. Are we
carrying water for the people who live here or some other entity?...
Mr O'Reilly replied:
The issue is the banks themselves are reluctant to go to Main Street....
We're not pointing them to Sportspark....
...They see the Transportation hubs... attracting business to their brick
and mortar....
Today I asked one Long Time Roosevelt Island resident who's been asking for a
new Roosevelt Island bank branch about the possibility of Sportspark as a
location. The reaction:
... As far as a bank — anywhere accessible by Red Bus is ok by me....
According to Mr. O'Reilly, Amalgamated Bank closed their Roosevelt Island
branch with 800 customers and $9 million in deposits, needing $20 million to
break even.At closing, RIOC had over $40 million in deposits at the Roosevelt
Island Amalgamated Bank branch. But, Amalgamated did not give the
Roosevelt Island branch any credit in evaluating it's viability for the RIOC
$40 million deposit which was credited to the Amalgamated corporate group.
Here's the RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting discussion about the
possibility of a Sportspark Bank branch (25 minute mark).
Also, RIOC is seeking to place more ATM machines at various locations around
Roosevelt Island.
Stay tune for more.
UPDATE 8 PM - The Long Time Roosevelt Island Resident adds:
Totally agree with anyone who argues for the fact that most of the
population lives between Manhattan Park and North of the Tram, and that the
RIOC & Hudson Related folks as well as our newest neighbor totally
disrespect the actual folks who live AND work here. Especially the
elderly, disabled and the Island businesses and non-profits that need an
accessible brick & mortar bank.
Let the hotel & Cornell get some ATMs and give us a conveniently located
branch of a financially stable, healthy Bank IN THE HEART OF THE ISLAND.
Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Acting President Shelton Haynes
announced during the October 15 Operations Advisory Committee meeting that the
annual Roosevelt Island Holiday Lights display will be cancelled this year due
to revenue shortfalls.
No Reindeer sled,
no Roosevelt Landings Arcade Lights,
no Tram Plaza animal lights
or any other Holiday Lights.
Mr Haynes explained that RIOC is currently experiencing a $2.7 million revenue loss this year and reducing it's community events budget from $150 Thousand annually to $50 Thousand.
Last Friday,I asked Mr Haynes what other upcoming Roosevelt Island events will be cancelled.
Will update when answer received.
UPDATE 5:35 PM
This is a bummer. I took a picture by the sled last year, and I'd love it if we could figure out a way to keep it, since so many other local holiday traditions are being cancelled this year. https://t.co/Nuf96HymU2pic.twitter.com/2vKHsssgmy
Reported last Tuesday that installation of 4 Citibike Docking stations with approximately 72 bicycles will begin at the end of June with service starting in July.
Reaction from Roosevelt Island residents varied - some supported:
CitiBike stations will be a plus for residents to easily get around and will allow those coming to the island the opportunity to get off their bikes and shop on the island if our stores and restaurants are ever allowed to open.
This is excellent news.
While I think it’s time we get Citi Bike, four stations is just ridiculous.
Others have safety concerns:
The quantity of bikes on the island is getting out of hand and dangerous.
I was walking tonight and was kind of being harassed by four city bike riders. They ride and get really close to you as they pass throwing one off balance!
Damn there’s already tons of these guys over here. Is there anyway we can stop this?
And some suggestions for implementing a safe Roosevelt Island bike plan:
If we’re going to allow an increase in bike traffic then there needs to be proper management.
Dedicated MARKED 2way bike lanes / proper signage. We have to implement this now and not wait until after the fact. It’s harder to implement boundaries when you allow a free for all to take over. NO bikes on the Main Street sidewalk. Also, no bikes on the Queens side path between Riverwalk Point and South Point. The pathway is too narrow. For this section the dedicated bike path should direct bikers to Main St to East Main Street.
It can work with proper leadership and management.
The bikes are coming, so we need solutions.
To be honest we need to also work on reducing the number of vehicles. If you are just visiting the Island—the lookie loos, you should park at Motorgate. From there, you can walk/bike/red bus. This is NYC. I don’t understand why walking is so offensive.
As we look forward to having Citi Bike on Roosevelt Island in July, we must also take steps to improve bike safety. In addition to stepping up enforcement, the Public Safety Department is also in the process of ordering new signage that will remind bike riders to obey speed limits, be mindful of crosswalks and to be careful of those around them. We will share these signs with you once they arrive.
Follow along with this virtual bike ride on the streets, promenade and sidewalks of Roosevelt Island
During June 2 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Operations Advisory Committee video conference meeting, I asked:
Residents have been concerned over the increased number of bike riders, mostly appears to be visitors, riding on sidewalks and waterfront promenade creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians, including elderly and kids.
What can RIOC do about creating safe sidewalks and pathways. Signage is not enough. Will PSD officers be stationed outside to monitor safe bike riding.
RIOC President Susan Rosenthal answered that RIOC is putting together a team with the Public Safety Department and Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Interim President David Lawson to find a solution for bicycle riding safety issues including signage and striping the Promenades for separate bike and pedestrian sections.
Great question - @Rooseveltisland is the perfect place for a really great cafe culture all the time - not just during a pandemic. Great cafes is one of the things I miss most about my hometown. If there can be thriving cafes in Astoria we should be able to perfect them here. https://t.co/CWkQz3Z1WA
During the June 2 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Operations Advisory Committee video conference meeting, I asked what will RIOC do to help Roosevelt Island restaurants and residents with social distance outdoor seating once the restaurants are allowed to open for more than take out and delivery:
Will RIOC allow restaurants to have outdoor seating in public spaces such as Good Shepherd Plaza, Blackwell Plaza, temporary outdoor seating around the perimeter of McManus and Firefighters Field for example. What is Roosevelt Island's version of NY Open Streets Plan.
RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and Chief Finance Officer John O'Reilly replied that so far none of the restaurants have asked for anything but that RIOC will soon be meeting with Hudson Related Shops On Main Street to discuss possible plans.
Here's the full RIOC Operations Committee discussion on possible plans for Roosevelt Island restaurants once they fully reopen.
As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued this March 22 advisory announcing the closing of the ball fields:
As of now, all permitted spaces, including McManus Field and Firefighters Field, will be closed until further notice. This precautionary measure is being taken as part of the Governor’s order for all New Yorkers to avoid risking exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Residents are encouraged to frequent the other public areas, such as the eastern and western promenades that circle the island as well as Lighthouse Park, Southpoint Park and Four Freedoms State Park. We encourage our residents to remain at least six feet apart from each other at all times.
Prior to the start of June 4 RIOC Board of Directors meeting, RIOC President Susan Rosenthal addressed this question from a resident about the opening of Roosevelt Island ball fields:
When will the Sports fields and tennis courts open up? We have children desperate for space to play on the Island. Asphalt Green in Manhattan has been open during the day for weeks.
Ms Rosenthal answered:
As soon as the Governor authorizes the State Parks to open sports fields, we will be opening them as well....
There are fields that are open, its just the permitted fields that are closed. Pony Field is open, Capobianco is open, it's the two permitted fields that are closed....
We are acting in accordance with instructions from NY State Parks....
I asked RIOC today:
During June 4 RIOC Board meeting discussion of opening Roosevelt Island ball fields, Susan Rosenthal said that Pony Field and Capobianco Field were open during the Pandemic. See 3.55 minute mark of video.
I do not think they were open. There was yellow tape surrounding both fields during this time.
Was Capobianco and Pony Fields supposed to be open during this time or was Susan incorrect when she stated they were open?
RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors Operations Advisory Committee will meet next Tuesday, June 2, to discuss the Roosevelt Island Coronavirus reopening plan as well as active construction projects. The meeting will be conducted via videoconference and open to the public.
I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and the RIOC Directors:
Will the public be able to participate during the upcoming RIOC Board Committee meeting videoconferences as they do during in person meetingns?
RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:
Public comments are not part of the agenda for either committee meeting. The public can always submit their comments for full board meetings on our website. http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43
NOTE: Although there is no public comment period on the agendas of the June 2 committee meetings, the public is invited to submit questions if they wish. The questions may or may not be addressed by the committee chairs. Questions may be submitted by clicking here: http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43
I'd like to know about opening the ball fields for socially distant recreation,
Great question for @RIOCny Astoria Park Field is open so people can walk around, get fresh air while maintaining social distance. Why not on Roosevelt Island? https://t.co/M2W5Q9LZQU
— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 3, 2020
Cornell Tech has done a community service keeping the campus oval open for Socially Distant recreation by Roosevelt Island residents. @RIOCny could learn a lesson and open Roosevelt Island ball fields for same. pic.twitter.com/fmUIPHgAEz
— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 30, 2020
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors Operations Advisory Committee will meet next Tuesday, June 2, to discuss the Roosevelt Island Coronavirus reopening plan as well as active construction projects. The meeting will be conducted via videoconference and open to the public.
I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and the RIOC Directors:
Will the public be able to participate during the upcoming RIOC Board Committee meeting videoconferences as they do during in person meetingns?
RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:
Public comments are not part of the agenda for either committee meeting. The public can always submit their comments for full board meetings on our website. http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. via videoconference.
AGENDA:
Discussion of:
Active Construction Projects
RIOC’s Reopening Plan
Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee
Chair’s Motion for Executive Session to Discuss Contract Negotiations
***
Due to public health concerns and as authorized by Executive Order of the Governor, this meeting will be conducted via videoconference.
The link to a webcast will be posted on RIOC’s website by 12:00 pm on Tuesday, June 2, 2020.
Among the issues residents have raised concerning the Coronavirus re-opening of Roosevelt Island is the use of McManus and Firefighters ball fields
Great question for @RIOCny Astoria Park Field is open so people can walk around, get fresh air while maintaining social distance. Why not on Roosevelt Island? https://t.co/M2W5Q9LZQU
— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 3, 2020
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2020 at 5:00 P.M. at RIOC’s Operations Office, 680 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
AGENDA:
Capital Projects Overview
Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee
You can follow the development stages of Roosevelt Island projects
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at 4:30 P.M. at RIOC’s Operations Office, 680 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
AGENDA:
Elit Green Builders Change Order for Seawall Railings Project
Sea Crest Construction Inc. Change Order for Manhattan Tram Elevator Project
Lighthouse Park Contract for Design Services
FDR Hope Memorial Contract for Construction Services
Blackwell Park Phase 1 Construction Services
Artist-in-Residence Program Grant
Status of Pending Projects
Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee
***
The Open Meetings Law of the State of New York requires that all public bodies conduct meetings, convened for the purpose of officially conducting public business, in a manner open to attendance by the general public to observe and listen.
RIOC provides some information regarding status of current projects on Capital Projects Tracker web page.
For Blackwell House the Tracker says:
Blackwell House Roof and Exterior Painting Procurement <$500K Fall 2019
and:
Blackwell House
This project has restored the interior of the house which includes waterproofing the building’s infrastructure and installing ADA complaint access ramps. The landmark restoration project has transformed the house into community space for Roosevelt Island residents, and tourist focal point on Main Street. - Construction $2.7M Fall 2019
We should have more info on status of Blackwell House and other Roosevelt Island projects at the Ops Committee meeting.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 5:30 P.M. at RIOC’s Operations Office, 680 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
AGENDA:
Discussion of:
MTA Flood Mitigation Work License Amendment
Capital Projects – Key Projects Review
Octagon Comfort Station & Site Work
Blackwell House Roof Repairs
Any Other Committee Business that May be Brought Before the Committee
Chair’s Motion for Executive Session to Discuss Personnel Matter
Later today the RIOC Audit Committee is meeting:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Audit Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at 4:30 P.M. at the RIOC Administrative Office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island New York
AMENDED AGENDA:
Discussion of:
RIOC's Audited Financial Statements for Fiscal Year 2018-19
Report on Procurement Contracts for Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2019 Report on Investments for Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2019
Property Report for Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2019
Annual Report for Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2019
Any Other Committee Business That May be Brought Before the Committee
Chair’s Motion for Executive Session to Discuss Personnel Matter
UPDATE 6/20 - From RIOC:
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 4:30 P.M. at RIOC’s Operations Office, 680 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Roosevelt Island is a mixed income, racially diverse waterfront community situated in the East River of New York City between Manhattan and Queens and is jurisdictionally part of Manhattan. The Roosevelt Island Tramway, which connects Roosevelt Island to the rest of Manhattan, has become the iconic symbol of Roosevelt Island to its residents.
The Purpose of this Blog is to provide accurate and timely information about Roosevelt Island as well as a forum for residents to express opinions and engage in a dialogue to improve our community.
