Watch Video Of Roosevelt Island Roadways Working Group Meeting Of RIOC Staff And Resident Discussing Z Brick Removal, Main Street Pedestrian/Vehicle Safety, Illuminated And Repositioned Traffic Signage - What Do You Think

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) hosted an August 13 community working group meeting to discuss the Main Street Roadways project with RIOC staff, Board Directors and residents in attendance. RIOC Acting Chief Operating Officer Mary Cunneen presented phase 1 of the plan which includes the area from Motorgate Plaza to Blackwell Plaza.

Image From RIOC August 13, 2024 Roadways Working Group Meeting

Accordng to Ms Cunneen:

... The Z-bricks are the main focus of phase one, looking at removing those and installing a more stable surface. 

Another existing condition is the signage on the Island. If you go down Main Street you might see several signs on one pole. There's a lot of repetitive signage there and it causes a lot of sign fatigue so drivers don't always know which sign to obey or which sign is pertinent to them. So having a lot of signage on the Island can be more distraction sometimes than actual assistance....

Image From RIOC August 13, 2024 Working Group Meeting

Image From RIOC August 13, 2024 Working Group Meeting

Here's Ms Cunneen's full presentation to the August 13 Roosevelt Island Roadways Community Working Group

and video of the meeting.

RIOC Communications Director Bryant Daniels ended the meeting adding:

... We will schedule another meeting for two weeks from now. I think the idea is we'd like everybody to sort of digest the ideas, think things through and then come back and if you have any new thoughts any new ideas any new feedback we'd really like to hear it....

These types of engagement meetings are really helpful for us and allow us to make informed decisions that hopefully will be well received...

RIOC Begins Phased Repairs To The Roosevelt Island Motorgate Garage Starting June 1 - Repair Concrete Surfaces, Install Slip Resistant Topping, Upgrade Drainage System, Waterproofing, Re-Striping, Install Electric Car Charging Stations & More

As reported May 7, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will soon start repairs to the Motorgate Garage.

 Today, RIOC announced that work on the Motogate Garage will begin June 1.

According to RIOC:

Motorgate Garage Improvements to Begin Week of June 3rd

As announced on April 30, 2019, a phased renovation for the Motorgate garage will be starting shortly. The improvements will address deficiencies in the space. The work will be phased to allow for the continued use of the garage as construction progresses.

What’s happening:

• Repair concrete surfaces to remove cracked, spalled, and delaminated concrete.
• Install slip resistant topping coating as needed.
• Replace the existing expansion joint material.
• Repair & upgrade the existing drainage system.
• Apply a waterproofing system on the parking deck, ramps, walkways, and curbs.
• Re-stripe the parking spaces and install new wayfinding signage.
• Install electric car charging stations.

What to expect and when:

Effective June 1, 2019 and throughout construction of sections 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D & 8D, monthly rates for patrons with reserved parking spaces will be adjusted accordingly.

Beginning June 3, 2019, sections 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D & 8D in the south building will be closed.  No parking is allowed in these sections after midnight on June 2, 2019. Violators will be towed.

As a reminder, we expect phase 1 work to be completed in the fall of 2019. No work will occur during the winter months. Construction activities will resume in spring 2020. We anticipate completion of all construction activities in the fall of 2020.

What residents can do to help:

• Your continued patience and cooperation is appreciated as we require residents to temporarily relocate their vehicles within the garage.
• Please observe and comply with temporary modifications to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic patterns.
• For your safety, please stay out of construction areas and other areas as posted.

Community advisories with detailed updates on the Motorgate garage improvements will be sent out as the project progresses. To receive alerts visit rioc.ny.gov and sign up for Island Community Advisories.

Here's the May 9 RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting discussion



of the Motorgate Garage repairs.

RIOC Announces Roosevelt Island Motorgate Garage Repairs And Infrastructure Improvements To Begin Next Month - Repair Concrete Surfaces, Upgrade Drainage System, Waterproofing Facility, Restriping Parking Spaces, New Signage & Electric Car Charging Stations

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) plans to begin work on infrastructure improvements to the Motorgate Garage.

According to RIOC:

As part of the ongoing initiative to improve the Island’s infrastructure, a contractor was selected to complete improvements in the Motorgate garage that will address deficiencies in the space. The work will be phased to allow for the continued use of the garage as construction progresses.

What’s happening:

• Repair concrete surfaces to remove cracked, spalled and delaminated concrete. Install slip resistant topping coating as needed.
• Replace the existing expansion joint material.
• Repair & upgrade the existing drainage system.
• Apply a waterproofing system on the parking deck, ramps, walkways, and curbs.
• Restripe the parking spaces and install new wayfinding signage.
• Install electric car charging stations.

What to expect and when:

Over the next few weeks, monthly patrons impacted by the first phase of work will be notified. Patrons will be relocated as necessary to accommodate the work schedule.

Phase I — first half repair work is scheduled to be performed in Spring 2019 through Fall of 2019

Phase II— second half repair work is slated to be performed in Spring 2020 through Fall of 2020

What residents can do to help:

• Your continued patience and cooperation is appreciated as we require residents to temporarily relocate their vehicles within the garage.
• Please observe and comply with temporary modifications to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic patterns.
• For your safety, please stay out of construction areas and other areas as posted.

“Residents have been living with the effects of the deterioration of Motorgate for too long; accordingly, we are happy to move forward with this extensive project to address those problems.” said Susan Rosenthal, President and CEO of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.

The Motorgate Garage management company, SP+, will be contacting monthly parking customers regarding any relocations or other necessary information. In addition, advisories with detailed updates on the Motorgate garage improvements will be sent out to the community as the project progresses. To receive alerts visit rioc.ny.gov and sign up for Island Community Advisories.

UPDATE 12:20 - The Roosevelt Island Twitterverse asks:

Do these improvements include updates to the smell of rotting carcasses that plagued us all last summer?

— John Thrasher (@jthrasher) May 7, 2019

RIOC Begins Roosevelt Island Main Street Repairs Tomorrow - Milling, Paving, Rolling And Striping

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson reports:

Several critical areas of Roosevelt Island’s asphalt roads in need of repairs to cracks, potholes and collapsed drains are being addressed by a road contractor that has started milling work and will continue with paving, rolling and striping tomorrow through Thursday, November 1.

The identified areas include West Road, by the MTA Subway Station; Main Street, by the Community Garden and The Octagon entrance; and the NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler loop. Four crosswalks, located on Main Street by the shops and Chapel of the Good Shepherd are to be restriped this week as well. The work is being performed by Rosemar Construction Company, of Long Island, N.Y, which specializes in a range of commercial, municipal/industrial and residential road work services.

RIOC Updates On Roosevelt Island Infrastructure Repair Projects - Helix Ramp, Tram Station Platform, Tram Elevators, Seawall, Blackwell House & Playgrounds

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson updates us on current Roosevelt Island infrastructure projects. According to Mr. Robertson:

There is very little available, or unaccounted for, space left on Roosevelt Island’s 147 acres to build new infrastructure. But there’s a big need to maintain its existing infrastructure and keep it updated for the next 50 years.

The reality though is RI’s infrastructure maintenance is often costly, time-consuming and considered a disruptive inconvenience to residents, business owners and even tourists and visitors who live, work and flock here in growing annual numbers. But the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) believes maintenance’s long-term benefits trump the short-term inconveniences

Last year, RIOC embarked on a robust five-year capital improvement plan. Some of those initial projects now are close to completion. Below, we’ll update the status of those, revisit the progress of others and maybe introduce you to more plans of which you might have been unaware.

The Helix Ramp: This road construction repair job began in February and during early demolition and preparation the structure was found to be in a more severe state of disrepair than previously thought. In May, the contractors and project managers extended the project scope and timeline for completion. The two-lane spiral roadway and adjacent plaza will now re-open to traffic on July 3. There will be intermittent disruptions to two way traffic to complete installation of new guardrails as well as expansion joint material along the lower ramp of the helix.

The deteriorating Roosevelt Island seawall railings that run along the majority of the Island’s shoreline about 3.5 miles in length are being replaced with new anti-corrosive steel railings. The $8.7 million project is being completed by Elit Green Builders Corporation which so far has completed about a third of the project around the southern end of the Island. Work is expected to continue through December 2018.

The Tram Station platform construction, a project that began May 16 and was scheduled to last 30 days, has been delayed by inclement weather. The construction work along with the re-installation of MetroCard vending machines should be completed by the end of June. Both cabins of the Tram will return to service at that time.

Tram Station Elevator: A $6.1 million construction project to upgrade the Manhattan Tram Station elevator started this week and the two building phases will be finished by late Spring 2019. The elevator project, at 59th Street and Second Avenue, calls for an iconic, two-bank, ADA-compliant glass elevator which replaces the existing elevator that has outlasted its expected mechanical life.

The RI Youth Center renovation work is now in the proposal bid process. Once a contractor is selected this summer, the work will last up to three months. The youth center programs will be relocated to the Sportspark during the construction period.

Blackwell House Renovation is a full structural refurbishment of the original farmhouse home of the Blackwell family, one of the early owners and inhabitants of what is now known as Roosevelt Island. The outside porch and entire interior, of the home built in 1796, has been totally gutted and new floors, walls, support beams, stairways, and code-compliant HAVC systems are being installed. The house will serve as a community meeting facility and new office for the Roosevelt Island Historical Society and reservoir for all Island and RIOC archives. Current completion date is early fall 2018.

The Al Lewis and Blackwell north playground areas will be getting playground equipment repairs and replacement and new poured in place rubberized play surfaces; work is set to begin later this summer.

Stay tuned for additional updates and news about upcoming projects at Octagon Field, Firefighter’s Field, Motorgate, Southpoint Park and Lighthouse Park.

Dangerous Condition At Octagon Field Perimeter Needs Fixing Before Anyone Else Stumbles And Gets Hurt Says Roosevelt Island Twitterverse

A Roosevelt Island resident takes to Twitter to get a dangerous grounds condition fixed.

@Rooseveltisland this is very dangerous and need to be fixed. Thanks pic.twitter.com/tqlMHHrkq9

— Moncef (@moncef22) April 28, 2018

Hope this can help pic.twitter.com/gHOoQWhP78

— Moncef (@moncef22) April 28, 2018

Yes, thank you very much!

— Moncef (@moncef22) April 28, 2018

Another resident adds:

Already busted my knees stumbling while running around there. Three years ago. Complained in writing thru official channels. Radio silence. So good luck with this!

— Mirella Menglide (@MirellaMenglide) April 29, 2018

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) needs to fix this before someone else gets hurt.

UPDATE 5:10 PM RIOC tweets:

Good afternoon, I am the new public information officer for @RIOCny. I'm inquiring about this and another question regarding the streets around the Octagon. I will respond shortly.

— RIOC NYS (@RIOCny) April 30, 2018

RIOC Pubic Information Alonza Robertson adds:

We are aware of the issue at the perimeter of Octagon Field. We will have a crew there tomorrow to correct the situation.

We will be awarding an RFP shortly for a contractor to build a bathroom/comfort station there as well as to replace the existing artificial turf, better LED lighting and make other needed structural improvements to that entire field area. That work is now slated to begin this fall after this summer sports season December 1.

UPDATE 5/1:

So until then 22 lights will remain broken leaving only 8 working? Assuming the field is available at a discount rate? To be fair the lights have been broken for a while.

— BriefCaseNI (@BriefCaseNI) April 30, 2018

@RIOCny All it would take is a cherry picker and new lights in the meantime. In New York Fall 2018 means Spring 2020.

— BriefCaseNI (@BriefCaseNI) April 30, 2018

UPDATE 5/1 7:30 PM - According to RIOC Public Information Oficer Alonzo Robertson

The repairs to the existing lighting system is happening now. I know that an electrician is there fixing some wiring issues, half are already back on. The brand new LED light lamps is what’s going to get installed with the entire field renovation package to start on Dec. 1.

$3.1 Million Roosevelt Island Helix Ramp Repairs Project Starts Today With Outer Lane Demolition - Traffic Limited To One Lane During 4 Month Project, Oversized Vehicles Must Coordinate Access 48 Hours In Advance With PSD Says RIOC

The $3.1 million Roosevelt Island Bridge Helix ramp repairs project begins today.

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued this travel advisory yesterday:

Helix Ramp repairs begin Mon. 3/12. Traffic will be limited to one lane during the four-month project. All oversized/large vehicles’ access to the island MUST be coordinated at least 48 hours prior to the requested date for delivery, with the RI Public Safety Department (PSD); 212.832.4545.

RIOC President Susan Rosenthal reported in her March 9 Community Report:

The first phase of construction of Helix Ramp repairs is a demolition.

On Monday March 12, the contractor will start the demolition of the outer lane. Signs and traffic lights have been installed earlier this week to help manage traffic slow. Please note all over-size delivery vehicles, and their business destinations, must coordinate with the Public Service Department at 212.832.4545 at least 48 hours prior to delivery date.

RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson adds:

... The Helix repair job - which includes waterproofing, concreate patch infill, rebar splicing, road resurfacing and railing replacements - is being completed by Specialty Construction Systems Inc., a structural engineering firm based in Mount Vernon, N.Y. and is the same firm that is contracted to resume and complete the Roosevelt Island Tram platform repairs this spring....

Image Of Roosevelt Island Motorgate Helix From Above Via Google Maps

RIOC Seeking Owners Rep Consultant To Help With $33 Million Roosevelt Island Capital Improvement & Maintenance Projects Planned For Next 2 Years - Dad Asks RIOC To Start Improvements With Blackwell Park Sandbox

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) is about to begin 24 months of major infrastructure and maintenance projects.

Image Of Broken Seawall Railing Near Octagon Building From December 2017

According to RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation has an ambitious and aggressive $33 million plan to complete more than 30 capital improvement and maintenance projects during the next 12-24 months. These include the Helix repair, seawall railing replacements, bike ramp and lane construction, elevator and potential escalator repairs, Youth Center and SportsPark renovations, sidewalk, playing fields and playground improvements among others.

The projects are all in varying stages of concept, design and construction. RIOC's in-house project management team will be at capacity once two new full-time project managers and the Director of Asset Management come aboard later this month. But even with the new hires, additional resources will be required to achieve our goals. After careful evaluation, RIOC has decided to utilize consultants - via the recent RFP for Owner’s Representative Services for Capital Projects & Strategic Planning - to support the current demands for the following reasons:

1. RIOC anticipates that the workload will fluctuate significantly and staffing up for a peak demand will leave us with excess staff during low periods. A consultant will be able to accommodate this fluctuation and RIOC will benefit by only paying for the additional resources when they are required.
2. RIOC has a demand for proven consultants in managing multi-disciplined projects through design, regulatory and construction processes. Not all of RIOC’s planned projects require full-time consultants daily but they will require full-time involvement of specialists at varying intervals throughout each of the projects being considered.
3. The Owner’s Representative would assist in the regulatory process with private and public agencies, take an active role in the Design Process for projects, prepare and evaluate bid proposals, perform inspections, contract administration, and other related activities.
4. RIOC will benefit from the experience of the organizations or firms who have successfully completed similar projects throughout NYC.

RIOC is looking at the Owners Representative role as an extension of our existing team. We have no intention of reducing staffing, rather we are bolstering and supplementing our existing team to prepare for the increase volume of projects that are being undertaken.

Here's the RIOC Owners Rep for Capital Planning & Projects RFP.

During the February 7 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Common Council meeting Public Session, a Roosevelt Island Dad asked RIRA to support a request that RIOC make improvements to the Sandbox in Blackwell Park.

According to the Roosevelt Island Dad:

... The Sandbox is in disrepair for some time....

And:

... The level of sand has dwindled to an inch or so and the bottom tarp that is underneath the sandbox is visible.

Admittedly, there is no glass or hazards in it but it's not pleasant to be in.

I'd like to ask this group to support an idea of having it topped off with sand once a season....

... My request is that from time to time a dump truck of sand backs up and dumps a load of sand in the sandbox...

RIOC does not need an Owners Rep to help fix the Blackwell Park sandbox.

UPDATE 2/15:

That sandbox should be removed. For years parents have wondered how clean it is.

— Eric (@Eric11714) February 14, 2018

According to RIOC, the sandbox will be removed as part of an upgrade to the Blackwell Park playground equipment this spring. There will be no sandbox replacement.

Roosevelt Island Saturday Farmers Market Temporarily Moving To Good Shepherd Plaza Starting February 17 During 4 Month $3.1 Million RI Bridge Helix Ramp Repairs

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will begin repair of the Roosevelt Island Bridge Helix Ramp



starting February 15 resulting in use of one ramp traffic lane 

 and temporary relocation of the Saturday morning Farmers Market

 to Good Shepherd Plaza.



According to RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson:

The $3.1 million Helix ramp and flat plaza repair job that’s starting Thursday, Feb. 15 will trigger at least two other major impacts on Roosevelt Island during the 120 days of construction.

The deteriorating 40-year-old structure, a high-traffic spiral road which connects the Island to the Roosevelt Island Bridge to Queens (at Vernon Boulevard and 36th Avenue), handles all incoming and outgoing car, truck and school bus traffic. As to be expected, the repair will slow traffic pace as vehicles will be restricted to one lane of use while the adjacent lane is repaired. Motorists are encouraged to plan for increased travel times in both directions.

The repair – which is part of a $33 million capital improvement program for the Island this fiscal year - is also forcing the relocation of the long-standing Farmers Market from the Helix Plaza to Good Shephard Plaza, 541 Main Street, beginning next Saturday, February 17. Vendors at the popular Saturday market, a long-time Island staple run by the PS/IS 217 Parent Teachers Association, will be given a walkthrough this set-up Saturday to familiarize themselves with the new open space, truck parking locations, electrical outlets and other logistics.

(The current proposed plan is to allow vendor vehicles to enter along the north side of the Good Shepard Chapel and park on the west side. Their tents and tables will be set up in the plaza along the north side of the chapel. Vehicles will exit along the south side once the market closes).

Roosevelt Island construction contractors and businesses employing delivery truck drivers also have been notified of vehicle length and load restrictions during the Helix repair. Large and oversize vehicles are now required to notify the Island’s Department of Public Safety, 212.832.4545, at least 48 hours in advance and to request an escort onto and off the Island as needed between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. only.

The Helix repair job - which includes waterproofing, concreate patch infill, rebar splicing, road resurfacing and railing replacements - is being completed by Specialty Construction Systems Inc., a structural engineering firm based in Mount Vernon, N.Y. and is the same firm that is contracted to resume and complete the Roosevelt Island Tram platform repairs this spring. Other local projects, the company has previously completed include structural repair work on the Lincoln Center west garage and tunnel, the Port Authority Bus Terminal and Pier 40 at Hudson River Park’s parking garage and sports facility.

As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA has been the long time operator of the Farmers Market, using fees from the market vendors for their programs and services. In April 2017, RIOC issued the PTA a no fee permit, terminable at any time by RIOC, to operate the Farmers Market. Prior to April 2017,  the PTA operated the Farmers Market, on RIOC property, without any agreement from RIOC for use of the area.

Recently, another group expressed interest in operating a Roosevelt Island Green Market. The subject was discussed during November 30 RIOC Operations Advisory Committee.

Roosevelt Island Tram Service Operating On Regular Service Schedule With Both Cabins Starting Monday Morning December 18 Says RIOC - But Work Still Remains To Complete The Tram Platform Repair Project

i dearly miss #rooseveltisland and the fact that my MetroCard let me ride its beautiful tram as often as I wanted, at all hours of the night. pic.twitter.com/gxCu0Q4mTO

— John Lapsley (@ConcerningCtzns) December 3, 2017

The Roosevelt Island Parents' Network asked:

Some parents are asking about progress of tram maintenance. Could you please help me find out if it'll finish as promised or will need to take longer?

Good news for Roosevelt Island Tram riders. Both Tram cabins will be in operation tomorrow morning, December 18.

 Image of Roosevelt Island Tram Station Sunday December 17

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

As of 6:00AM on Monday, December 18, 2017, both tram cars will be in service operating on their regular schedule. The temporary Red Bus shuttle service that was offered during the tram platform renovation will no longer be in operation.

Tram platform repairs will still be on going. From December 18th through December 29th , it will be necessary for contractors to use one tram car between 6:30AM and 7:00AM, as well as between 2:00PM and 2:30PM daily. These are the only anticipated deviations from the regular tram operating schedule.

Both tram cars will remain in operation until the spring. RIOC anticipates that only one tram will be in operation for a period of three weeks to complete the renovations during that period.

We thank you for your patience and wish you a happy holiday season.

The Roosevelt Island Tram Platform repair project began July 24.  The station repair project often resulted in very, very long lines due to only a single cabin operating, frustrating many Roosevelt Island residents with the inconvenience. In August::

...  the RIOC Board approved an expenditure of up to an additional $160,000 to extend the Tram Station repairs work week to include Saturday's.

According to RIOC Engineering Consultant Mike Russo, the extended work week will save at a minimum 30 days on the project's schedule. Mr. Russo said he hoped the Tram Station repairs will be completed before the end of 2017....

RIOC said both Tram Cabins will return to service by the end of 2017 and it looks like that will happen. An early Christmas/Chanukah holiday present for Roosevelt Island residents.

Roosevelt Island Capobianco Field Basketball Court Closed This Week For Resurfacing Says RIOC - Al Lewis & Blackwell Park Playgrounds Will Get New Surfaces Soon Too

The Roosevelt Island Capobianco Field basketball courts are closed this week for resurfacing.

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that the Capobianco Basketball Court resurfacing project will commence on Monday, October 23rd, with contractors working daily from 7 AM to 4 PM. The project will conclude on Friday, October 27th. Protective fencing will be installed around the perimeter of the site for safety purposes. The court will re-open for play on Monday, October 30th.

The Blackwell Park Basketball Court

is open.

As previously reported, RIOC will also replace the flooring at Al Lewis and Blackwell Park playgrounds.

Twitterverse Reports Dangerous Roosevelt Island Playground Conditions, Rusty Nails And Hole In Ground - RIOC Tweets Back That They Are Addressing Problem

The Roosevelt Island Twitterverse reported a dangerous condition for children at the Al Lewis Playground yesterday.

@Rooseveltisland can we get someone to fix this? Rusted nails+hole in the ground+children=accident. Tried RIOCto no avail. pic.twitter.com/Qf0BlBK29A

— haven burton (@Haviebird) October 4, 2017

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) responded.

This has been reported to our maintenance department and they are addressing the situation. Thank you.

— RIOC NYS (@RIOCny) October 5, 2017

So @RIOCny Maintenance Department wasn't aware about the hole until somebody informed?

— Roberto (@BorjaRoberto) October 5, 2017

Well, I do think RIOC should be given credit for replying to the info in Tweet but most important thing is to fix the dangerous condition immediately before anyone gets hurt.

During September 27 Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island committee meeting,  RIOC President Susan Rosenthal reported that the RIOC Board approved safety improvements, including new flooring, for the Al Lewis and Blackwell Park playground.

Discussion begins below at the 1 minute 30 second mark.

RIOC Shortens Time For Roosevelt Island Tram Station Repairs By Authorizing Up To Additional $160,000 To Contractor For Increased Work Week - RIOC Hopes Work Completed By End Of 2017

Roosevelt Island Tram riders may not have to suffer with long lines at the Tram Station through the winter of 2018 as originally planned.

As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) has begun Tram Station Repairs causing only 1 Tram cabin to be in service resulting in long lines

and frustrated Roosevelt Island residents.

During the August 9 RIOC Board of Directors meeting (video web cast of full meeting here), the RIOC Board approved an expenditure of up to an additional $160,000 to extend the Tram Station repairs work week to include Saturday's.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Sidewalks In Urgent Need Of Repair To Avoid Tripping Hazards After Winter Damage - RIOC Says Repairs Will Be Done

Image From Roberta Kleiman

The Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Island Services Committee is reviewing the conditions of Roosevelt Island sidewalks.

Image From Roberta Kleiman

According to the ISC:

Condition of Roads and Paths – ISC adopted this as a new issue. There has been much damage to sidewalks and paths throughout the Island this winter. Repairs are badly needed to eliminate tripping hazards. Frank will be the Lead Person on this issue. First, he will inspect the bad places and take a photo showing the condition of the sidewalk. Then a list will be presented to RIOC with a request for rapid repair work.

Images From Roberta Kleiman

Roosevelt Island resident Roberta Kleiman reports:

I wiped out while running 3 weeks ago and severely sprained my wrist and bruised my ribs and knees. It was on the section of sidewalk between Manhattan Park and Octagon. My foot got caught in the uneven pavement, and I went flying forward (there was no ice in the vicinity). The sidewalks and perimeter of the island seem to have taken a beating this winter. I don't think repairs for them were mentioned in the 37 million recently discussed, though I've been told that perhaps this sort of repair would be covered in the maintenance budget. The RIRA Island Services Committee is currently looking into this matter.

Also, though less urgent in my opinion, there are sections of the perimeter that are in bad shape as well. There's a section near the Fire Station where I've seen several runners fall. There are sections of the pavement above the Avac path that are quite uneven and bumpy. Heading south from the Fire Station towards Southtown, there are also some bad sections. A woman I know who uses a wheelchair told me she can no longer travel on that part of the perimeter. I would also think these irregularities could pose problems for the runners in the many races held on Roosevelt Island.

I hope that the sidewalk repairs will be made as soon as possible, and that the perimeter will also be repaired soon!

Images From Roberta Kleiman

The conditions of Roosevelt Island sidewalks were discussed during yesterday's, March 9, Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Operations Advisory Committee (full audio web cast of meeting). RIOC Director Margie Smith raised the issue to RIOC President Charlene Indelicato and RIOC Engineering Director Jim Mortimer (by phone) who reported that sidewalk damage would be repaired.



One of the Starbucks Barista's was hurt from a fall on a Roosevelt Island sidewalk and I took a spill tripping on raised sidewalk by Rivercross lawn, though not hurt other than scrapes, bruises and embarrassment.

Roosevelt Island Main Street Emergency Road Work Tonight - Expect Minor Delays Near 543 Main Street

Image Of Roosevelt Island Main Street Emergency Road Repair

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Notification issued 01/06/2015 at 6:55 PM. Due to emergency road work being conducted in the Area of 543 Main Street the South bound lane will be temporarily obstructed. Expect Minor delays in the area of 543 Main Street.

I don't know the cause of the emergency at this time but will update when more information available.

Urban American Explains Reason For Water And Electric Shut Down Today At Roosevelt Island's Roosevelt Landings Complex - On Earth Day, Owner Urban American Connecting Energy Efficient Onsite Combined Heat & Power Plant

An update to yesterday's post about water and electricity shut down today at Urban American's Roosevelt Landings complex.

  Image of Roosevelt Landings formerly Eastwood

Urban American's Josh Eisenberg explains the reason for water and electric shutdown today. Mr. Eisenberg reports:

The shut down is required in order to connect our new Combined Heat and Power Plant (CHP) to the electrical and hot water systems in the building.

Despite an inconvenient but unavoidable disruption in service Tuesday, we are proud to announce that Roosevelt Landings will be connecting its new Combined Heat and Power system that will generate 300 kW of electricity and 2.1 million BTUs/hr of domestic hot water.

When activated, our onsite power plant and heating system will be capable of generating 15% of the building's electricity on site and all of the hot water for more than 1000 apartments 30% more efficiently than before.

Only the 540 building where the system is located will be affected by the electrical shut down. We tried to plan the shut down at the least inconvenient time possible for the most number of residents. (While the rest of the complex will be affected by the brief hot water shut down, it should not be affected by the electrical shut down isolated in the 540 building.)

Unfortunately, disruption of service will affect everyone in some way and this cannot be helped. Management on the ground has identified those residents they believe will require special assistance, but those that have received the notice but have not yet spoken to the front office are encouraged to contact reception immediately.

On this Earth Day, 2014, I am proud to report that Urban American is making good on real commitments to energy efficiency on Roosevelt Island and that we will continue, as we have for many years, to make these improvements throughout our portfolios in New York City. We deeply appreciate our residents cooperation in this and in other aspects of our energy efficiency program at Roosevelt Landings. The enthusiasm and support of our residents in providing access for the installation of smart thermostats and for extensive air sealing has aided greatly in making this effort so far to be one of the largest and deepest energy efficiency retrofits of an apartment complex in New York City.

Image Of Energy Efficient Programmable Thermostats

I asked Mr. Eisenberg:

When do you anticipate the on site power plant and heating system to be activated?

He replied:

Optimistically, by the end of May. But there are still a few more steps in the process to firing up that CHP plant. The new boilers have been running for several months already.

Mr. Eisenberg explained Urban American's energy efficiency program during April 2013 Roosevelt Island real estate discussion on the Michael Stoler Report. Here's what Mr. Eisenberg had to say.



More details on Urban American's energy efficiency retrofits at Roosevelt Landings from previous post.

Emergency Building Repairs For Roosevelt Landings Complex Tomorrow April 22 - Between 9 AM And 3 PM No Hot Water And Slight Chance Of No Water, Also No Electricity For 540 Main

A Roosevelt Landings resident shares photos of these flyers posted in the elevator and reports:

No hot water from 9 am to 3 pm in Roosevelt Landings buildings

No electricity from 9 am to 3 pm in 540 main st building (there will be elevator with power plant)

Please buy water and plan ahead.

I just checked with the Landlord and THERE will be elevator service for 540. In case you need electricity to charge your phone, breastpump or any other essencial need, they told me to go to the Senior Center.

Please check your elevators to read the notices (there's also one for Laundry rooms)

Be safe tomorrow!!!

UPDATE 4/22 - Urban American's Josh Eisenberg, owner of Roosevelt Landings, explains the reason for water and electric shutdown today. Urban American is installing energy efficient Combined Heat & Power Plant today.

Roosevelt Island Tram Station Improvements, Repairs And Repainting Starting Today Says RIOC

Improvements, repairs and repainting of the Roosevelt Island Tram stations will begin today.

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that construction on the Tram Stations and platforms will commence on Monday, April 21, 2014. The scope of this project includes improvements and repairs to the station platforms and repainting of the Roosevelt Island and Manhattan Tram Stations. The planned work is scheduled to last 120 calendar days. In the event that work causes a disruption to Tram service, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will issue an advisory to notify the public in advance. Thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

UPDATE 4/22 - Reaction from Roosevelt Island residents:

• The station is fine. Would've been nice if they'd fixed the Manhattan elevator first.
• Just fix the elevator!
• They are penny wise and pound foolish. Paint over the problems, like band aids... FIX THE ELEVATORS so that the Elderly, Handicap and those darn baby strollers can make it down to the street level.

and an advisory from RIOC about the Manhattan Tram station elevator:

Please be advised that the Manhattan Station Tram Elevator is out of service pending delivery of a replacement part. The elevator is expected to be back in service by Wednesday, April 23rd. Until that time, the red Passenger Lift will be available as necessary. Thank you for your patience as we undertake this necessary work.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Roosevelt Island Helix Emergency Pothole Repairs Thursday and Friday 6 PM to 3 AM, Traffic Reduced To One Lane During This Time - How Will Helix Handle Heavy Construction Trucks During Cornell NYC Tech Campus Construction?

 Image Of Roosevelt Island Bridge Helix

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised on Thursday, June 20th and Friday, June 21st the Roosevelt Island Helix will undergo emergency concrete pothole repair work. The work will be performed between the hours of 6:00 PM and 3:00 AM during which time, traffic entering and exiting the Island will be reduced to one lane. The work zone will be marked with signs. Flagmen and Public Safety officers will be on-site directing traffic and providing assistance throughout the scheduled maintenance. Orange traffic barrels and safety cones will be installed between the two lanes to channelize traffic. Motorist are urged to use caution while traveling near the work zone.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

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Concerns have been raised about the impact of numerous, large, heavy construction trucks using the the Roosevelt Island Bridge Helix during the construction of the Cornell NYC Tech campus. That question was asked to Cornell during the Community Board 8 ULURP review process. Here's the question and Cornell's answer:

... Q -How is the helix ramp leading from the bridge to the island going to be improved to handle the huge heavy truck traffic anticipated? What would be the impact if the ramp had to be closed for repairs? (Page 18)

A- No improvements to the helix are proposed as part of the project. As with any transportation facility, including local roads, highways, and bridges, necessary repair would be conducted with the appropriate maintenance and protection of traffic and pedestrian flows, subject to review and approval by the entity having jurisdiction over the facility, which in this case would be RIOC. Cornell will be complying with the reduced load limits on the bridge and helix as approved by DOT....

Cornell has promised to reduce the amount of truck traffic going over the Roosevelt Island Bridge and Helix by using more barges for transporting construction materials.

More information on the condition of the Roosevelt Island Helix available in this 2011 report by Liro Engineers commissioned by RIOC attached to 2013 RFP for Structural Evaluation and Engineering & Design Services for the renovation of the R.I. Helix Ramp.

Local Law 11 Facade Work Continuing At Roosevelt Island's Manhattan Park - River Road Completely Closed To Traffic Until Further Notice Says Building Management, Residents Ask When Will Work Be Completed?

Image Of Manhattan Park's 10 River Road Yesteday

A Manhattan Park resident forwarded this announcement from the Manhattan Park Management:

May 13, 2013

All Residents

Manhattan Park

Roosevelt Island, N.Y. 10044

Dear Residents:

On Tuesday May 14, 2013, River Road will be completely closed to vehicle traffic due to Local Law 11 work from 7:00am until further notice.

Please remember that there will be NO VEHICLE TRAFFIC on River Road and absolutely NO PARKING in the restricted area until further notice.

If you have a vehicle parked on River Road after midnight tonight, it will be towed.

Thank you for your cooperation and we apologize for any inconvenience.

Manhattan Park Management

NYC Local Law 11 concerns:

... inspection of the exterior walls of buildings greater than six stories in height....

Residents of Manhattan Park expressed concern yesterday over the unknown length of time they will be inconvenienced by this work and how long it will be "until further notice" is reached.

Image of Manhattan Park's 30 River Road Yesterday

Residents expressed the following concern:

Any one get a clear indication on when the work might be done?

I'm in building 30, and I'm a little nervous about the windows being sealed up when the summer rolls around...

I'm surprised there hasn't been any specific notice.  I realize management doesn't want to commit and not deliver, but if they've been working on 40 for going on 10 months, and they're about to start 30, we should expect it to go through the summer AND the winter.

I'll have a newborn in the apartment in the middle of the summer, so it doesn't work to not be able to control the temperature at any time.

I realize they're not giving "concessions" on the rent during the work, but perhaps release from the lease should we have to move.

Another:

My biggest concern is about the lack of AC usage especially at night. Should we ask for a Town Hall meeting so we can get clarification?

 Another:

Good luck with getting any information from Manhatten Park.  They tell you nothing.  Be prepared for the worst Buildings 10 and 30.  This ordeal is a horrible experience.  The noise during the day at times is unbelievable.  Yes, your windows and balcony gets taped up for the duration.  I did not use my heat during the evenings and weekends.  In the middle of winter it was freezing.  They did supply us with space heaters.

I cannot wait for them to be totally finished so we can have normalcy again.  Shame on Manhatten Park for not giving us proper notification on this project.  2 weeks notice is not enough notice to clean off your balcony when you can't use it for a year.  They left off the part that it was going to take a year.  Had we had known that, we could have put our balcony stuff into our storage unit in Queens.

And another:

We are in 40 and they have been at it for months now. I called the office and was told that they will be done with my building by the end of June.

In regards to the air conditioners I was told that they will install filters. You may want to call management for more details.

There were 2 cars parked on River Road last evening.