Residents Ask Why Was Chain Link Fence Installed Blocking Access To Roosevelt Island East River Eleanor's Pier And Will Pier Tables And Chairs Return When It's Fixed?

Last Friday, Roosevelt Island residents noticed chain linked fencing being installed at Eleanor's Pier on the East River waterfront promenade

 

and asked:

• Do you know what happened here? It’s fully fenced
• What is this fencing???? So strange they would close the entire pier 😔 

Last month, a portion of the Eleanor's Pier seawall railing collapsed.

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A post shared by Roosevelt (@rooseveltislander)

On April 1, Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Communications Director Bryant Daniels replied to my question asking what happened and reported:

On Saturday evening an individual was holding onto one of the railings on Eleanor’s Pier when it collapsed back onto the pier. Thankfully, that person was ok and did not require medical attention. No other individuals were involved in the incident, and nothing went into the water. 

RIOC has cordoned off the entire area for public safety purposes and begun investigating why the railing collapsed, and whether the rest of the railings will require any remediation work to ensure their structural integrity. We don’t yet have a timeline for the repair work but will be sure to keep the community up to date when we know more. In the meantime, for those visiting the pier, we are asking everyone to please adhere to our temporary boundary and not cross into the cordoned off area.

Subsequently, additional problems were discovered at the Pier which required it to be closed for safety precautions. 

Also, several residents have asked:

Do you know what happened to the chairs in Eleanor’s pier? They disappeared slowly and never came back.

Do not know yet RIOC's plan to fix and timetable to re-open the Pier or if the tables and chairs will return.

Will update when more info becomes available.

The same pier seawall railing area collapsed in February 2023

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A post shared by Roosevelt (@rooseveltislander)

and the Roosevelt Island boat prow is still closed 

a year after the damage was discovered in April 2023.

Was That You At The Glow In The Dark Silent Dance Party At Roosevelt Island East River Pier?

Garbage And Empty Beer Bottles Left Overnight At Roosevelt Island Subway Promenade Pier, Can We Do Better - Big Belly Solar Trash Cans Could Help

A resident shares photo taken about 11 this morning of garbage and empty beer cans left overnight at the Subway Pier.

Residents react on Roosevelt Islander Instagram:

It seems to be happening all over at night and on weekends. I hope RIOC will act and order the "big belly solar trash cans" like in LIC.

Southpoint Park will need many of the big belly trash cans when that promenade and walking paths open up in the coming year & 1/2. A few more more thousand people a day will be coming over to the park.

And:

Terrible. Always baffles the mind. Take your trash with you and discard it when you come upon a garbage can.

And:

We can and must. Some proactive enforcement on the part of Public Safety would be helpful. Parking violations are important but should not be the mainstay of a police or security operation. Open air dope congregations and dope smoking under buildings and at east side riverfront, transients urinating in plain view in front of Starbucks and near subway station and garbage strewn about are all quality of life issues that need to be addressed before they worsen.

And:

Do we need more garbage cans? Signs threatening fines? And yes more patrolling but also more money to clean up

By 2:30 pm, the area was cleaned up.

UPDATE 8:30 PM - Comments from Roosevelt Islander Facebook Page:

• This has been happening everyday, they leave their garbage behind after they dine. They have no respect! ... There are garbage cans all around the area but there are to many people! ... The ones that drive over and park around the Cornell campus have their tête-à-tête then drop their garbage out the door and pull away!
• We used to have trash cans near there. Yes, big belly trash cans could help. Also,always cleaning up and throwing out your Garbage helps.
• How about posting that there are fines for leaving trash. Sometimes just the idea that someone is watching will help prevent bad behavior.
• Quite often people come, park their cars drink their beer and then leave, leaving their garbage behind. Close to Cornell you can see the beer boxes next to where they parked their cars.
• With that many bottles and that size mess security must have passed them multiple times and done nothing.
• Was Rioc on Vacation? This isn’t the 80’s Where you needed an ID to enter the Island... “We” are doing great! There’s no way to enforce tourists to live as we do.
• As a common rule, people suck and are selfish. Make it easier on those people not to have to work "too hard" for the general good. Disney world has stated many times that there is a trash can within 30 feet of anywhere a person is standing in their parks. In the month I have lived here, I have found myself searching for the closest trash can several times... and then... the can is already overflowing because there are. Too. Few!!!! Because I love my earth and my home... I'll hold on to my refuse until I find an available trash bin. But as we see by these photos, others will not.

Resident Asks RIOC Not To Mar View Of East River Waterfront From Roosevelt Island Pier With A Royal Flush Porta Potty

Roosevelt Island resident Adina Grunn reports:

As you can see this porta-potty placement is extremely unfortunate.

 I doubt it was deliberately placed to mar the view over Eleanor’s Pier.

So, could you please ask Royal Flush to move this unit close to the end of the sea-walk (perhaps by the Starbucks garbage enclosure). I’m sure a dire need for Royal Flush could definitely be addressed by walking a quick couple of yards south.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Information Officer Alonza Robetson replies:

Thank you for forwarding your reader's question. The portasans belongs to our seawall railings contractor who dropped the unit off Friday in preparation for work in that area. Back on site today, after the weekend, the contractor moved the portasans inside the barricades of their approved work area at the Southtown West location.

Lovely Saturday Evening On The Roosevelt Island East River Waterfront Promenade Pier - But What Was The Staten Island Ferry Doing On East River Passing Roosevelt Island This Afternoon?

Lovely Saturday evening hanging out at Roosevelt Island East River waterfront promenade pier this evening.

Earlier today, the Staten Island Ferry was spotted passing Roosevelt Island making its annual East River trip for a children's charity.

The Twitterverse was asking today what the Staten Island Ferry was doing on the East River?

What's a Staten Island ferry doing halfway up the East River? Wrong way! pic.twitter.com/W6G0W9KN0A

— Jon Benjamin (@JonBenjamin19) July 8, 2017

The Staten Island ferry is drunk. It's going north on the east river. Explain. @MTA #ferry #mta #statenisland #nyc pic.twitter.com/xk2wynBIjF

— zwiebel, kelly (@zwiebel_kelly) July 8, 2017

Today was one of those rare days when the Staten Island Ferry made a break for it up the East River. Godspeed. pic.twitter.com/1wWE1l0GwR

— Peter Szekely (@peszeke) July 8, 2017

Staten Island Ferry annual children's charity East River trip passing Roosevelt Island today https://t.co/C8AEpL1h9a? pic.twitter.com/SFcWWHkrna

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) July 8, 2017

Mystery solved🔎😀 https://t.co/wqagjkTnlh

— Green Shores NYC (@GreenShoresNYC) July 8, 2017

Oh What A Beautiful Morning At The Roosevelt Island East River Pier Today

The Roosevelt Island Twitterverse reports:

Just across Manhattan lays @Rooseveltisland - the best place to spend a summer day! https://t.co/OZfUfeiRFG pic.twitter.com/zHs8irW0E4

— GlenwoodNYC (@GlenwoodNYC) May 17, 2017

It's not summer yet, but what a beautiful morning to spend on Roosevelt Island today.

Some lucky folks enjoyed, a little breakfast, cup of coffee, working on their computer

or just enjoying the incredible NYC waterfront views at the outdoor tables and chairs

on the Roosevelt Island East River Pier.

As reported last week, the outdoor tables and chairs were brought back to the Pier by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) and according to RIOC President Susan Rosenthal:

We’ve got more---assuming they are in demand, we’ll increase the #.....bottom line: we’re here to serve!

Use the Pier and Enjoy!!!!

UPDATE 2:15 PM - A former resident returned to Roosevelt Island today with her friend from Queens and enjoyed a Sushi lunch at the Pier

brought with them from a restaurant in Forest Hills.

UPDATE 10 PM - Enjoying the beautiful nighttime view

from the Roosevelt Island East River Pier

Great News - Outdoor Tables & Chairs Return To Roosevelt Island East River Pier - Fantastic Place To Bring Your Food, Relax And Enjoy The NYC Waterfront View

Last March, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal to bring back the outdoor tables and chairs to the Roosevelt Island East River Pier:

... I think it would be great if RIOC would put these tables out at the West Pier so people can sit there and bring some food over from the local restaurants and/or food trucks.

Here's what the Pier with outdoor tables looked like in 2014.

Ms Rosenthal liked the idea and said RIOC would consider it. Today, the outdoor tables and chairs were put back at the Roosevelt Island Pier and used.

There were 5 tables with chairs out today. I asked Ms Rosenthal if more were available and she said:

We’ve got more---assuming they are in demand, we’ll increase the #.....bottom line: we’re here to serve!

Thank you RIOC and Ms. Rosenthal.

Roosevelt Island East River West Pier Closed This Week For Daily Maintenance Work Says RIOC - Will Outdoor Tables And Chairs Ever Return To Roosevelt Island West Pier?

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Due to maintenance work being performed daily from 8AM to 4PM, beginning Monday, July 18, 2016 through Friday, July 22, 2016 on the West Pier rear of 455 Main Street, the pier will be closed from 7AM, Monday, July 18, 2016 until 5PM, Friday, July 22, 2016.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time

Image Of Maintenance Work Being Done Today On Roosevelt Island West Pier

It would be great if RIOC brings back the tables and chairs to the Pier

as in previous years.

The RIOC Board of Directors Operations Advisory Committee discussed maintenance and future use of the West Pier, including outdoor tables and chairs, during October 2015 meeting. One problem mentioned with the use of the Pier is a lack of electricity and running water for the space.

Here's the discussion.



UPDATE 7/24 - From RIOC:

Due to continued maintenance work being performed daily from 8AM to 4PM, on the West Pier rear of 455 Main Street, the West Pier will remain closed until 5PM on Friday, July 29, 2016.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time

UPDATE 8/1 - From RIOC:

Due to continued maintenance work being performed daily from 8AM to 4PM, on the West Pier rear of 455 Main Street, the West Pier will remain closed until 5PM on Friday, August 5th, 2016.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time

Roosevelt Island Food Truck Rally 5 - 8 PM Thursday July 23 With Kimchi Taco Truck, Wafels & Dinges, Chef Samir Comme Ci Comme Ca, Mausam Curry & Bites & Brooklyn Organics

Roosevelt Island is having a Food Truck Rally July 23 from 5-8 PM on the West Promenade Road across from Starbucks

 Roosevelt Island Food Trucks and Pier NYC From Above During Summer 2012

at 455 Main Street. According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC), participating food truck vendors include:

Kimchi Taco Truck

Wafels & Dinges

Chef Samir Comme Ci Comme Ca,

Mausam Curry N Bites

and 

Brooklyn Organics.

RIOC will set up outdoor tables and chairs at the Promenade Pier so bring your friends and come join your neighbors at the Roosevelt Island Food Truck Rally for some great food and good times.

UPDATE 7/23 - Valducci's Pizza Truck too.

Yum.

Outdoor Tables And Chairs Return To Roosevelt Island West Promenade Pier Today - Will Food Trucks Follow?

The outdoor tables and chairs are back today at the Roosevelt Island West Promenade Pier.

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will put the tables and chairs out on Friday morning and keep them there through Monday Morning. RIOC hopes to attract food trucks to serve the area.

You can also bring your own food and drink, buy some at local restaurants or just sit there and enjoy the beautiful East River views.

Hopefully, RIOC will also bring in umbrellas for shade from the sun. It can get very hot out there.

Food Truck Rally Coming To Roosevelt Island Says RIOC, At Least For One Day - Roosevelt Island Food Truck Permitting Policy Discussed At RIOC Operations Committee Meeting

The May 18 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Operations Advisory Committee discussed permitting procedures (full audio web cast of meeting here) including practices and policies for mobile food trucks serving Roosevelt Island.

RIOC Permits Coordinator Donna Masly reported that a new Indian Food Truck, Mausam Curry N Bites, is currently serving Roosevelt Island

Image Of Mausam Curry N Bites Food Truck On Roosevelt Island

and described RIOC's food truck policies:

Roosevelt Island Food Truck Permit Policy

RIOC Director Margie Smith asked what is the biggest deterrent to getting more food trucks serving Roosevelt Island?

Ms. Masly responded that some food trucks had a poor Roosevelt Island experience several years ago that needs to be overcome for them to feel welcomed back here. Ms. Masly added that the Food Trucks cannot build a reputation in one, two or even 5 days but need to establish a reliable presence.

Ms. Smith suggested a mobile food truck day for Roosevelt Island where residents can try food from multiple vendors. RIOC President Charlene Indelicato said that the current retail store owners (Riverewalk Bar and Main Street Sweets) will object but agreed that a one time food truck day is a great idea and RIOC will give it a try.

Several locations were discussed for the Roosevelt Island Food Truck Rally, (Southpoint and Lighthouse Park) but Ms. Masly's suggestion of holding it on Main Street, between the Subway and Blackwell Turnaround, was the agreed upon choice. The Roosevelt Island Food Truck Rally will be held together with the re-opening of the West Pier outdoor tables and chairs for eating, relaxing and enjoying the fantastic East River view.

 2012 Outdoor Restaurant At Pier And Main Street Food Trucks

Image Of Roosevelt Island's Summer 2014 Eleanor's Pier

Here's the Food Truck discussion at May 18 RIOC Operations Committee meeting





and full RIOC Permitting Presentation (starting at 58 minute 30 Second mark) .

Roosevelt Island Permitting Policy

Will have more on other Roosevelt Island permitting matters soon as well.

Red Tail Hawk Lunches On Rat At Roosevelt Island Pier Today - Great Place To Eat For Humans And Hawks

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

Received a tip on Wednesday of a Red Tail Hawk seen in tree at southern tip of Rivercross lawn.

Image Of Hawk In Rivercross Tree Branch From Denise Shull

This afternoon, NY State Wildlife Rehabilitator Rossane Ceruzzi spotted the Red Tail Hawk

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

lunching on a rat

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

at the Roosevelt Island Pier (summer home of Eleanor's Pier Outdoor Eating Area)



(Video from Ms. Ceruzzi).

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued this November 7 Waterfront Concession Request For Proposals for the Pier due December 22. The Pier is a great place to enjoy the East River waterfront view and have a bite to eat.

Just ask the Hawk.

UPDATE 11/17 - Ms. Ceruzzi sends an up close and personal view of the Hawk lunching on rat at the Roosevelt Island East River Pier before flying away.

Roosevelt Island East River West Pier Outdoor Seating Food Concession Coming This Summer From Hudson Related - Intent Is To Create A Public Plaza

What's going on at the Roosevelt Island East River West Pier Waterfront Food Concession?

Yesterday RIOC employees were putting up Roosevelt Island West Pier banner signage on the railings.

Reported last April 7:

After completing the renovation of the West/Subway Pier, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) today put out some outdoor tables  and chairs for staging purposes on the Pier today.

We're not quite ready for sitting down with a bite to eat at the Pier, but soon it will be ready.

During April 7 meeting of RIOC Operations Committee meeting (full audio web cast of meeting), RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported that the Riverwalk Bar & Grill owners, who operated Pier NYC at the Subway/West Pier during summer of 2012, declined to operate the venue this summer. (The Pier was closed during 2013 due to damage from Hurricane Sandy).

Instead of Pier NYC, Ms Indelicato said that RIOC intends to bring in Food Trucks to operate in the area this summer...

The answer is that RIOC will not be bringing Food Trucks to the Pier but recently awarded  operations of the Waterfront Pier Concession for this summer to Hudson Related, developers of Southtown Riverwalk buildings and the Main Street Master Retail Leaseholder.

Hudson Related is currently working on their plans for vendors and programming at the West Pier. I asked Hudson Related's David Kramer:

... are you considering the pier to be a "private" space for the food concession like it was for the Pier NYC or will it continue to be a "public" space that can be used by all whether or not they purchase food.

What type of vendors are you looking at for the space?

adding that my preference would be:

... public space for eating similar to Fowler Square in Fort Greene and the Archway under Manhattan Bridge in Dumbo. Also the outdoor seating area at LIC Flea. (Sent you picture before).

The NYC DOT has other examples of public spaces with eating options that are good examples....

Mr. Kramer replied:

... Hudson Related's intent is to treat the area as a public plaza....

As RIOC was hanging the Roosevelt Island West Pier banner yesterday, two men were a couple of feet away fishing.

Perhaps they are interested in being the fresh seafood vendors for the Roosevelt Island

Image From RIOC

West Pier when it opens this summer?

Outdoor Eating Returning To Roosevelt Island East River Waterfront Pier This Summer - RIOC Bringing In Food Trucks To Operate At Pier

Another welcome sign of spring and summer approaching with sunny skies, warmer weather and relaxing at the Roosevelt Island East River waterfront.



After completing the renovation of the West/Subway Pier, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) today put out some outdoor tables

and chairs

for staging purposes on the Pier

today.

We're not quite ready for sitting down with a bite to eat at the Pier, but soon it will be ready.

During April 7 meeting of RIOC Operations Committee meeting (full audio web cast of meeting), RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported that the Riverwalk Bar & Grill owners, who operated Pier NYC at the Subway/West Pier during summer of 2012, declined to operate the venue this summer. (The Pier was closed during 2013 due to damage from Hurricane Sandy).

Instead of Pier NYC, Ms Indelicato said that RIOC intends to bring in Food Trucks to operate in the area this summer and

 2012 Outdoor Restaurant At Pier And Main Street Food Trucks

that RIOC purchased the Pier NYC tables and chairs for $4,500 from the Riverwalk Bar & Grill owners.

Here is the discussion at April 7 RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting.



I'm looking forward to the return of the food trucks and eating at the Pier.

UPDATE 4/28 - RIOC has more information here for potential Operators of the Roosevelt Island Waterfront Pier Concession. There is a new RIOC administration in place that emphasizes its desire to work with potential Waterfront Operators to make a success of the Waterfront Pier Concession.

Hanging Out At The Roosevelt Island Waterfront Pier On A Beautiful Sunny Sunday - RIOC Looking Into Summer Outdoor Dining Options For Pier

One of the great outdoor community spaces on Roosevelt Island is the West (Subway) Pier. On a lovely, sunny Sunday afternoon today, despite gated barriers still blocking the pathway, the Roosevelt Island public came out to the recently renovated West Pier to enjoy the beautiful weather and East River waterfront.

If you weren't at the Pier today, here's what it was like.



Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato reports about the Pier:

On March 31, reconstruction work on the West Pier near the Subway Station was completed, and we are looking forward to reopening the Pier to the public shortly. RIOC is pleased to restore this beautiful area to active use and is currently looking into outdoor dining options for this Summer.

Looking forward to learning what RIOC has in mind for outdoor dining at the Pier this summer. In the summer of 2012, the pier was the site of an outdoor restaurant

 2012 Outdoor Restaurant At Pier And Main Street Food Trucks

operating by the owners of the Riverwalk Bar & Grill.

Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - Roosevelt Island Motorgate Art Gallery Opening, Motorgate Non Resident/Visitors Parking Rate Increase, Sportspark Temporary Heating Done, Outdoor Dining At Pier Options, Tram Station Painting, Potholes & More

Aerial View Of Repaired West Pier

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato sends

Image Of Repaired Roosevelt Island West Pier Deck

the following report to the community.

As the weather warms up, events and outdoor activities are being planned – a date has been set for the Motorgate Gallery Opening, and Bike New York is planning a Spring Kickoff event for mid-May. As RIOC’s new fiscal year began on April 1, the regular fare on the Red Buses has been eliminated and the RIOC Board will soon meet to review recommendations for the award of Public Purpose Funds. Work continues on construction projects and seasonal maintenance of the Island’s roads and fields.

Bus Fare Elimination

As of last Tuesday, April 1, the $0.25 fare on the Red Bus has been eliminated. A refund for any unused fare change cards can be obtained at the RIOC Bus Garage (680 Main St.) until April 30, 2014. If you have any questions or would like more information, you may call the RIOC Offices at 212-832-4540. Please note that this fare elimination is effective for local and express bus service only, and does not affect fares for special bus service such as the Shopper's Bus.

Motorgate Garage

A rate increase has been planned for non-resident and visitor parking in the Motorgate Parking Garage. Resident rates for monthly parking passes will not be affected, and an advisory will be issued before the change goes into effect. You may call the Garage at 212-832-4585 with any questions. In addition, frequent parkers in the Motorgate Garage should be aware that the elevators on the North side of the Garage have been repaired and are in excellent working condition. With easy elevator access, parking on the North side or the South side of the Garage is equally convenient.

Public Purpose Funds

Every year, Public Purpose Funds are allocated to not-for-profit programs that benefit Roosevelt Island residents by providing educational, artistic and cultural enrichment, or contributing to an overall better environment for the community. Applications for the 2014-2015 Public Purpose Funds have been reviewed by the RIRA Public Purpose Fund Committee and their recommendations will be presented at the April 10 meeting of the RIOC Board of Directors for approval.

Construction

On March 31, reconstruction work on the West Pier near the Subway Station was completed, and we are looking forward to reopening the Pier to the public shortly. RIOC is pleased to restore this beautiful area to active use and is currently looking into outdoor dining options for this Summer.

Last week, the Sportspark facility was closed on Monday and Tuesday while contractors performed the necessary tie-ins for the facility’s temporary heating system. Work was completed on time, and Sportspark reopened on Wednesday, March 27 for Open Swim and Mommy & Me classes. Although the work may have caused a slight inconvenience to the community, we are pleased to note that this was the only closure of the facility during the temporary system’s installation process.

Now that temperatures are suitable for the work to be performed, both the Roosevelt Island and Manhattan Tram Stations will undergo renovation work, including repainting and platform repair. A kickoff meeting was held with the contractor, and the project is scheduled to commence within the next week. Work is projected to last approximately 18 weeks and is weather sensitive. RIOC will issue advisories to notify the public in advance of any affects on travel.

Our Facilities Department has begun to repair damage done to the roads by the past Winter’s cold and stormy weather. A number of potholes on Main Street, including the area near the Helix Ramp, have already been sealed and filled. Staff will also be working with a contractor throughout the coming week to repair other locations throughout Main Street.

Motorgate Gallery Opening

Save the date – on Saturday, April 26, RIOC and the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association will be hosting the second annual Motorgate Gallery Opening. The show will exhibit the beautiful murals painted at last year’s Fall for Arts Festival as well as selected works from previous years. We hope you will be able to join in and enjoy the wonderful artwork that has been created right here on Roosevelt Island.

RIOC Advisories

RIOC Advisories is an email alert system that keeps the public up to date on traffic disruptions, emergency situations, construction diversions, community meetings, events and other Roosevelt Island specific information. We encourage all residents to sign up for RIOC Advisories in order to receive community and emergency alerts. Remember, if we can’t reach you, we can’t alert you. To subscribe, visit rioc.ny.gov/advisorybody.htm or send an email to Subscribe@rioc.ny.gov.

Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - Roosevelt Island Red Bus Fare Eliminated April 1, Temporary Sportspark Closure, West Pier Repaired Soon, Octagon Tennis Court Resurfacing & More

 Image Of Roosevelt Island West Pier Reconstruction

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato sends the following report to the community.

Spring has arrived on Roosevelt Island after a particularly severe New York Winter. With the warmer weather’s return, several construction projects are moving forward and our staff has begun preparing the parks and fields for spring. The fare on the Red Bus will soon be eliminated, smoothing out Main Street traffic and making traveling on the Bus simpler as we begin the season. Down at Sportspark, the final installation of the facility’s temporary heating system is taking place – more information is below.

Red Bus Fare Elimination

As March comes to an end, RIOC would like to remind the community that the Red Bus will be free to ride beginning April 1. The elimination of the fare will help keep traffic on Main Street moving with faster boarding times, encouraging the use of mass transit on the Island. Making the Red Bus free to ride will also reduce operating costs by eliminating the need to collect fares from the buses. If you have a fare change card, please be advised that March is the last month these cards will be accepted on the bus. Once the fare is eliminated, refunds for any unused value remaining on the cards will be available at the RIOC Bus Garage (680 Main Street) until April 30, 2014.

Temporary Sportspark Closure

For many years, Roosevelt Island’s Steam Plant has supplied steam to Goldwater Hospital, the Sportspark facility, and several additional RIOC properties. Due to the closure of Goldwater Hospital, the City’s Health and Hospitals Corporation intends to close the Steam Plant permanently. In preparation for the potential closure of the Plant, RIOC is currently in the process of installing a temporary heating system at Sportspark.

This Monday and Tuesday, March 24−25, the Sportspark pool and gymnasium will be closed in order to finalize the installation of the temporary system. During this two-day closure, contractors will be installing the boiler and performing the required tie-ins to the existing system. We regret the inconvenience to the community during this time and thank you for your patience as this necessary work is completed. Please note that this will be the only closure of the facility during this installation process. Sportspark will re-open on Wednesday, March 26 at 6 a.m.

Construction Projects

Work is moving forward quickly on the West Pier. The lumber required for the repairs was delivered in the beginning of March and the installation of the decking is expected to be completed shortly. Damaged wiring has been replaced and work on the railings is in progress. Repairs are scheduled to be completed by March 31. We are pleased to be able to restore the Pier for the community’s enjoyment.

This Spring, the Octagon Tennis Courts will be undergoing resurfacing to repair and improve the playing surface. The Tennis Courts are currently open for free play and will be closed when construction begins in the first week of April. The closure is anticipated to last for approximately two months. New 2014 permits will be issued once work is completed. We will continue to notify the community of any changes or developments.

Parks & Fields

RIOC’s Grounds, Facilities and Maintenance staff are hard at work preparing the Island for Spring. New clay and grass seed is being applied to the athletic fields to ensure an optimal playing surface when the season starts on April 1. The Octagon Soccer Field will also be re-striped. The parks and fields are undergoing a general cleanup – grassy areas are being reseeded, plant beds will be fertilized, irrigation systems will be tested and inspected, and any debris left over from the Winter will be removed.

Sportspark Classes

During the Winter, many residents kept warm and stayed active with fitness and swimming classes at Sportspark. Yoga, Zumba, and Mommy & Me classes, along with free basketball and ping pong play, are a fun way to keep in shape all year round. Visit our Parks & Recreation website at  rioc.recdesk.com to see a list of available programs and a class calendar. If you would like to see more programming, different classes, or if you have any questions about what is offered at the gym or pool, we welcome your feedback. You may contact us at  eddie.perez@rioc.ny.gov.

In addition to offering instructed classes, the Sportspark Pool is open daily for two Open Swim sessions, one in the morning and one in the evening. You can drop in to any session (resident drop-in rates are $5), and Pool Memberships are available for those who would like to make swimming a part of their weekly routine. Swimming is a great low-impact exercise that improves strength and flexibility while being easy on joints. Both Individual and Family Memberships are available. For more information on rates and the Open Swim schedule, you can visit  rioc.recdesk.com, email  eddie.perez@rioc.ny.gov, or call Sportspark at 212-832-4569.

Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - Roosevelt Island Renovation Of Lighthouse Park, Subway Pier, Motorgate, Cultural Center, Helix, Seawall, Elimination Of Red Bus Fare, Snow Clean Up And More

 Image of RIOC President Charlene Indelicato From RIOC

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato sends the following report to the community.

Introduction

We are looking forward to a New Year full of changes. Many new construction and restoration projects spearheaded by RIOC will be moving forward and Cornell University will break ground on their new campus. Bike New York will expand their cycling programs and many more initiatives lead by members of our community will continue to make the Island a diverse and lively place throughout 2014.

Construction and Restoration

Work on the north entrance of the Good Shepherd Community Center is currently scheduled to commence later this month and be completed in approximately 4 weeks. Restoration of the south entrance is projected to be completed in the subsequent 4 weeks. Interior renovations are scheduled to be finished during a final 4 week period. The Community Center will remain accessible to the public for the duration of the restoration process.

Repairs on the West Pier are in progress, and are expected to be completed by mid-February. Lighting renovations and re-striping in the Motorgate Garage are proceeding according to schedule and are expected to be completed by April 2014.

Work on the footbridges inside the Lighthouse Park is scheduled to begin within the next several weeks. Construction is expected to be completed within approximately sixty days, at which point the park will be reopened to the public. Plans are also moving forward for the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center – repairs and renovations are projected to be finished by the end of summer 2014.

Many large capital projects will be moving forward in the coming year. Plans are being prepared for improvements to the Helix Ramp; and the design for the Southpoint Seawalls will be developed. RIOC will continue to maintain and develop the Island’s infrastructure to ensure readiness for the future.

Red Bus Fare Elimination

We are pleased to announce that beginning April 1, 2014, the Red Bus will be free to ride. Please be aware that any unused fare change cards must be used by March 31, 2014 or they will lose their value. The removal of the fare will allow for faster boarding times at each stop as well as encourage the use of mass transportation.

Bike New York

Roosevelt Islanders can look forward to more bike education classes, events, and community involvement from Bike New York this year. The nonprofit organization will continue to offer free indoor cycling classes at Sportspark (250 Main Street), and will expand their program in Spring 2014 to include after-school activities, summer camps, and more free community events. Bike New York is also looking for residents who would be interested in teaching classes or volunteering to help out on the Island. If you would like to get involved, please contact their Community Outreach Manager, Caitlin Goodspeed at cgoodspeed@bikenewyork.org. RIOC and Bike New York are looking forward to a safe and bike-friendly Roosevelt Island in the future. Bike New York’s next class on Roosevelt Island is Bicycling Basics on January 15, 2014, 10:00 a.m. at Sportspark. For a full listing of their free classes, check their website at www.bikenewyork.org/learn/classes-workshops/overview.

Winter Storm Hercules

Many thanks go out to those employees who worked through the night during Winter Storm Hercules to ensure that roads and pathways were clear. While most pathways were cleared with relative ease, exposed areas, such as the lawn south of Rivercross, were subject to high winds that continually blew snow onto the path, necessitating multiple cleanings. During this icy season, please be aware that rock salt is less effective during extremely cold weather. Finally, while the MTA is responsible for snow and ice removal areas around the station, we encourage residents to let us know about any issues of this nature, so that RIOC can quickly notify the relevant parties. Residents are advised to continue to use caution while traveling during the winter months.

Classes at Sportspark

If you are looking for an enjoyable way to stay fit for the New Year, Sportspark (250 Main Street) offers a variety of indoor classes all year round. Currently, the gymnasium offers yoga and zumba classes three times per week, open basketball sessions, ping pong free play, and the Young Adult Program on Friday and Saturday nights. The pool is available for Open Swim seven days a week and offers several swimming and aerobics classes. For information about Sportspark’s offerings, check online at rioc.ny.gov/Sportspark.htm or call (212) 832-4514.

Repair Work Starting Tomorrow On Roosevelt Island West Pier Damaged By Hurricane Sandy

 Roosevelt Island West Pier

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that repair work at the West Pier will begin tomorrow, November 26, 2013. Construction on the Pier will be taking place along the West side of the Island, from the Subway station to the second staircase leading toward the street. Signs and notices to redirect pedestrian traffic will be posted.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Report From RIOC President Charlene Indelicato - Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony, 2014 Public Purpose Funds, Goldwater Patients Relocations, Construction Update & More

2012 Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony At Blackwell Park

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato sends the following report to the community.

The holidays are upon us, and in celebration of the season RIOC will be hosting Roosevelt Island’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony – more information is below. Despite the cold weather, many construction projects are going forward on the Island – work is taking place at the West Pier, Good Shepherd Community Center, 504 Main Street and the Motorgate Garage. RIOC would like to wish safe travels to those who are going to see family, as well as to those who are coming home to Roosevelt Island to be with their loved ones.

RIOC Advisories

Following the phone outage on Roosevelt Island this past week, we would like to encourage residents to sign up for our email advisory system. The advisories that RIOC sends include important updates on Island events, traffic diversions, Tram service, construction and other news that directly affect Roosevelt Island residents. In the event of an emergency, the advisories are the fastest way to get information directly from us. You can sign up online at http://rioc.ny.gov/advisorybody.htm or send an email to subscribe@rioc.ny.gov .

Tree Lighting

Roosevelt Island’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will be taking place at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 6 at Blackwell Plaza. This festive Island tradition celebrates the unique spirit that brings the community together. Performers from The Main Street Theater and Dance Alliance, The Child School, and Roosevelt Island Youth Program will sing holiday songs as we await the lighting of the tree. We invite you to come out with your friends and family to listen to Island performers, watch the lights twinkle, and even have a photo op with Santa. Come join in the fun and festivities!

Holiday Train Show

This year, the New York Botanical Garden has included a replica of the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse in their annual Holiday Train Show! The Show is a cherished tradition that delights people of all ages. Marvel at the charming model trains and New York landmark replicas, stroll the spectacular grounds, break for lunch and hot chocolate in the Holiday Dining Pavilion, and shop for everyone on your list! A 30% discount has been offered to members of our community – if you would like to attend, you can get tickets at nybg.org and use discount code 9036.

Public Purpose Funds

As a reminder, the Public Purpose Funds application is now available online at http://rioc.ny.gov/grants.htm. The deadline for submissions is Friday, January 10, 2014 at 11:59 PM. All non-profit organizations on the Island that are in need of funding are encouraged to visit the webpage for more information or to apply.

Motorgate Garage

Work at the Motorgate Parking Garage is moving forward as renovation to the surface conditions and lighting continues. The project will be entering into sections 5B South, 6B North, 6C South, 6D South, and 6B South beginning in two weeks. Work in sections 4B North, 5B North, 5D, 5C, 6A North and 6A South for this portion of the project is expected to be completed by December 2, 2013, during which time these sections will be reopened to patrons for parking.

·       December 2, 2013 — December 16, 2013: Section 5B South.
·       December 16, 2013 — January 3, 2014: Section 6B North.
·       January 3, 2014 — January 17, 2014: Section 6C South.
·       January 17, 2014 — January 31, 2014: Section 6D South.
·       January 31, 2014 — February 14, 2014: Section 6B South.

We appreciate your cooperation and patience during this project.

Construction Updates

Repairs will soon be commencing at the West Pier – the contractor has been selected and will take the site next Tuesday, November 26, 2013. Work is expected to be completed in three to four months. The construction site will extend along the West side of the Island, from the Subway station to the second staircase leading from the promenade up toward the street. Signs and notices to redirect pedestrian traffic will be posted.

Restoration work will also be taking place at the Good Shepherd Community Center. The entry doors and narthex, or entrance area at the front of the building, will be renovated over the next six months. The existing schedule of the Community Center will be taken into account; the project will also be implemented in phases in order to facilitate its continued use. Work is expected to commence on December 2, 2013.

Painting and repair work on the Tram has been rescheduled. The reason for the change in schedule is that the paint to be applied to the Tram requires the temperature to remain higher than 50° F in order to cure properly. Following a discussion with the contractors, it was determined that April 2014 is a much more feasible point in time for the work to take place. The sidewalk near the Tram and bus turnaround will also be repaired in the Spring.

At 504 Main Street, designs have been approved and authorization to begin work on the windows has been given – expect to see replacements soon.

Goldwater Hospital Move

The NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation has announced that the dates for the Coler-Goldwater patient relocation move – originally scheduled for Sunday, November 17, 2013, and Monday, November 18, 2013 – have been changed. The new dates are Sunday, November 24, 2013, from 4 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Monday, November 25, 2013, from 8:30 a.m. until 9:35 p.m. PSD and the NYPD will be available to direct traffic around the Roosevelt Island Bridge. RIOC Advisories and Notify NYC will be sending out more information in the form of advisories. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact 311 for the most up-to-date information