What's The Safety Status Of Roosevelt Island Drinking Water Fountains? RIOC Invites Public To Water Quality Test Results Follow Up Meeting Wednesday Morning October 10

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Community Update

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) is hosting a follow-up meeting Wednesday, October 10 at 10:30 a.m. to discuss the recent water test results of various Roosevelt Island drinking fountains.

This meeting is a follow-up to an initial meeting, held September 14 with the Roosevelt Island Residents Association, to answer additional questions about the testing results the public felt were unanswered.

WATCH the video of the first meeting here:





Dr. Roger C. Sokol, director of the Division of Environmental Health Protection, NYS Department of Health (available by teleconference); and various RIOC senior officials will be presenting information about the testing, the results and potential remediation plans.

The meeting will be held at the RIOC offices at 680 Main Street (just east of Gristedes supermarket).

If you wish to ask questions, please send your name and contact information to Alonza Robertson at alonza.robertson@rioc.ny.gov or via telephone at 212.832.4540.

 Image From Frank Farance

Tomorrow's meeting is a follow up to the September 14 RIOC meeting with representatives of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA). The local press and other members of the public were not allowed to attend the September 14 meeting.

On September 21 RIOC added:

It appears that certain members of the Roosevelt Island community are misinterpreting data from our two recent laboratory tests of water samples from Island drinking fountains and are causing undue alarm.

After reviewing a second round of Roosevelt Island outdoor fountain water laboratory test results, a health official from the NYS Department of Health, in a statement we released August 8, said the water is up to standard.

“With the exception of Capobianco Park, the review of water quality results - analyzed the second time by a New York State Department of Health Environmental Laboratory Approval Program certified laboratory (Long Island Analytical Laboratory Inc.,) are consistent with the water quality being delivered by the New York City water system and meet all applicable drinking water standards,” said Roger C. Sokol, Ph.D., director of the Division of Environmental Health Protection, NYS Department of Health....

RIRA sent the following September 24 letter to RIOC President Susan Rosenthal regarding the September 14 meeting:

Re: September 14 Meeting re Quality Concerns of RIOC Maintained Public Fountains

After our meeting on Sept. 14 to discuss the Roosevelt Island drinking fountain water testing results, it came to our attention that the full 79-page water testing report completed by Long Island Analytics was never disclosed to us. While you gave us two double-sided copied pages from that report with the "Volatiles" results of the Capobianco fountains buried inside, there was no executive summary attached as a face page and we were not afforded an opportunity to look thoroughly at these pages, either in preparation for or during, the session. Nor was it fully disclosed to us that the Healthy Buildings report which was provided at the meeting was the first and not the second set of testing. Neither the "Volatiles" results nor the findings that there were coliforms in fountains in Southpoint Park and Lighthouse Park were discussed at all.

The purpose of the meeting was for RIOC to fully disclose and report to us and the community as to RIOC's findings regarding the water systems and water testing. It was not to be an exercise where community attendees were to sift through the reports on the spot, identify all the problems, and ask questions about them. Based on what had happened during the meeting and what we understand now, the community can only surmise that RIOC did not want to discuss and fully disclose the aforementioned results with the public. It is small wonder that the bloggers on the Island believe that RIOC has deliberately kept the most damaging information from us and the community, especially since that is exactly what happened.

With regard to the total coliforms positive tests, during the session Dr. Sokol of the New York State Department of Environmental Protection stated that it was not unusual for total coliforms to be high when pipes had been turned off for a significant period of time and there was standing water in them. In July, however, after RIOC released an announcement saying the fountains had been turned off, both of ourselves, Rossana Ceruzzi and Mickey Rindler, visited Southpoint Park on behalf of the Island Services Committee and found that, in fact, the fountains were on and operational. The water fountains were never turned off as represented. Therefore, we demand that the fountains with positive coliform tests in both parks be turned off immediately and that they be retested for bacteria next spring before they are commissioned for public use. Similarly, we insist that the fountain at Blackwell House not be turned back on until it is retested and certified as safe.

Concerning the high levels of methylene chloride found in the fountains at Capobianco Field, Dr. Sokol, in his letter of August 17, also indicated that the detected levels were likely coming from glue to connect plastic piping, which we assume was what was used to construct or repair the water system in this field. This is very alarming to us because, if that is the case, then the sprinkler system water had the chemical as well and copious amounts of it were disseminated onto the field regularly. Hence, we are extremely concerned that even those using the field who did not drink from the water fountain were also exposed to this volatile potential carcinogen which can enter the body through the skin and, since it is volatile, the lungs. Moreover, chemicals generally leech out in an exponential fashion over time, meaning that the levels being measured now are, no doubt, much, much lower than those that were present soon after the actual contamination commenced.

In light of both recently discovered information, the results of our meeting and the above, we demand that

1. RIOC identify the source of the methylene chloride and inform RIRA and the public. If it is determined to likely be the glue used to connect pipes we demand to know when the work was performed and who did it.
2. RIOC inform RIRA and the public as to how and when you plan to correct the problem or replace the water system and what steps will be taken to prevent such contamination in the future.

To say that we and the community are severely disappointed with the disposition of our meeting and the actions of RIOC, and that all of our and the community's questions were answered during the September 14 meeting, is a severe understatement. Categorizing our September 14 meeting and the events that have transpired after as truthful and comforting is nothing more than pure spin on the part of RIOC on an already worsening and alarming situation.

We await your prompt response on these matters.

Sincerely,

Rossana Ceruzzi & Mickey Rindler Co-Chairs, RIRA Island Services Committee

Jeffrey R. Escobar
President, Roosevelt Island Residents Association

RIOC has not responded to RIRA's letter.

More info on this matter at prior post.

Roosevelt Island Drinking Fountain Water Quality Update - NYS Health Department Says Roosevelt Island Water Quality Meet All Applicable Standards Except For Capobianco Park - Currently, Drinking Fountains Will Stay Off But Blackwell Park Tot Lot Splash Area Will Be Turned Back On

As reported July 27:

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Susan Rosenthal reported during the July 23 RIOC Board meeting that preliminary testing of Roosevelt Island water fountains revealed:

... some high levels, higher than EPA allows, of bacteria, not E-Coli, in some of them. One sample had elevated iron levels..

Roosevelt

Island drinking water fountains have been shut off since July 6 after RIOC received a report from resident Frank Farance of possible contamination of the water supply to drinking fountains.

Image From Frank Farance

Minutes ago, RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson provided this update:

After reviewing a second round of Roosevelt Island outdoor drinking-fountain water test results, a top New York State health official, in a statement released Tuesday, said the water is up to standard.

“With the exception of Capobianco Park, the review of water quality results - analyzed the second time by a New York State Department of Health Environmental Laboratory Approval Program certified laboratory (Long Island Analytical Laboratory Inc.,) are consistent with the water quality being delivered by the New York City water system and meet all applicable drinking water standards,” said Roger C. Sokol, Ph.D, director of the Division of Environmental Health Protection, NYS Department of Health.

Water test results of two fountains at Capobianco Field showed slightly higher (>738) than normal (500) levels of heterotrophic plate counts which is an indicator of low-chlorine residual. Chlorine is present in all NYC drinking water to reduce bacteria. However, no coliform or E. coli bacteria was found.

Due to citizen concerns raised about water quality in the Island’s drinking fountains, RIOC shut down the water supply systems in all parks and playgrounds on July 6 and conducted testing from 10 different fountains and one splash park location. RIOC conducted two independent tests of the water quality; one each by Healthy Buildings Inc. and Long Island Analytical, a New York State-certified laboratory.

The water samples were analyzed in three different categories: microbiological, inorganic analytes (metals) and physical factors; and included determining the existence of, and or levels of items such as bacteria, chloride, iron, lead and sulfates.

On July 23, RIOC hired a plumbing engineer, Cameron Engineering & Associates of New York, to complete an assessment of all water connection points from NYC water to Island parks’ distribution. Until RIOC receives that report and, if required, drafts a remediation plan, all the drinking water fountains will remain off. However, the NYS Department of Health has advised RIOC that the splash park area, near the tot lot play area at Blackwell Park, can be turned back on.

RIOC is planning to meet with Jeff Escobar, president of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association, and other Island leaders, to discuss the results, answer questions and share potential further remediation plans.

More info at this July 25 post including Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) letter about the possible water contamination of Roosevelt Island drinking fountains and discussion of subject at Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island Committee.

RIOC Update Says Preliminary Report On Roosevelt Island Drinking Fountain Water Quality Finds "No Risk For Continued Use" - But Water Remains Shut Off At All Parks For Additional Testing

As reported July 24:

 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Susan Rosenthal reported during the July 23 RIOC Board meeting that preliminary testing of Roosevelt Island water fountains revealed:

... some high levels, higher than EPA allows, of bacteria, not E-Coli, in some of them. One sample had elevated iron levels..

Roosevelt Island drinking water fountains have been shut off since July 6 after RIOC received a report from resident Frank Farance of possible contamination of the water supply to drinking fountains.

Image From Frank Farance

Today, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) provided an update on our Drinking Water Fountains. According to RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson:

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation’s top priority is the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors. On July 6, after concerns were raised about water quality, we immediately shut down the water supply systems in all parks, playgrounds and drinking fountains, conducted water quality testing at 11 different locations, and consulted with state health officials. Preliminary results indicate that the water in drinking fountains poses no risk for continued use.

However, as an additional safeguard, health officials recommended that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation conduct additional testing from a New York State certified laboratory. The water will remain off at all parks while additional testing is performed and reviewed, and upon completion of testing, we will share the results with the public.

Following the lead of Mr. Farance, the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) expressed their concerns to RIOC about the water fountains in this July 25 letter.

Re: Quality Concerns of RIOC Maintained Public Fountains

Dear Ms. Rosenthal,

As Co-Chairs of the RIRA Island Services Committee ("ISC") and as the President of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association ("RIRA"), we write to express our collective concern about your report on July 23rd at the RIOC special Board meeting that preliminary testing on Roosevelt Island drinking water fountains revealed “... some high levels, higher than EPA allows, of bacteria, not E-Coli, in some of them [including] elevated iron levels...”

Of particular disappointment is RIOC’s failure to keep in direct communication with residents, particularly those that use such water fountains, about the concern over the safety of consumption of water from the drinking water fountains as well as its failure to adequately post signs/notices with information related to the drinking fountains shut off and the reasons for such shut off.

It would be prudent that RIOC recall that the suspicion of contamination of the public drinking fountains arose from information that RIOC provided to Roosevelt Island residents during negotiations to secure an adequate source of potable water for the WFF cat sanctuary in Southpoint Park.

All Roosevelt Island residents, and especially parents of young children, expect that RIOC will maintain the highest standards ensuring a healthy, safe environment for all, especially our children.

RIOC must publicly provide and present a complete water analysis report. On behalf of all Roosevelt Island residents we demand to know the accuracy of RIOC's assertion and assurance that only some of the public drinking fountains are hooked up to the irrigation water source, which is not potable, as opposed to the main water lines that serve the Island buildings and which we presume is chlorinated and UV-treated New York City water. RIOC has provided no reassurance that even the public drinking fountains in Southpoint Park are safe.

We trust that both you and RIOC share the Roosevelt Island residents' concerns over the safety of public drinking water sources, and agree that water quality and safety is an extremely important and a top priority for residents. As RIRA Common Council elected members, we demand to be kept promptly informed of any and all further results on the water quality testing, the timeline for ameliorating this disturbing issue and on RIOC’s progress in finding solutions to the problem.

Jeffrey R. Escobar
President, Roosevelt Island Residents Association

Rossana Ceruzzi & Mickey Rindler Co-Chairs, RIRA Island Services Committee

The Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island Committee discussed the issue



during July 19 meeting.

Preliminary Study Finds Roosevelt Island Water Fountains Have Elevated Bacteria & Iron Levels Higher Than EPA Allows Says RIOC President At Board Of Directors Meeting Yesterday - Remediation Plan Hoped For Within 2 Weeks

As reported July 6:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) announced Friday that it will shut down drinking water fountains on the Island while it investigates potential water source line issues.

RIOC thanks Island resident Frank Farance for sharing his concerns about the fountains with RIOC.

Independent consultants have been enlisted to assist RIOC with its review....

 Image From Frank Farance

And:

... WATER FOUNTAINS

Healthy Building International Inc. has been retained by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) to conduct water sampling and analysis at several drinking water fountain locations in parks and playgrounds across Roosevelt Island, RIOC President and CEO Susan Rosenthal said Tuesday.

The tests are designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the water and to confirm its acceptability for consumption. The samples will be compared with the relevant federal Department of Environmental Protection (EPA) contaminant levels of microbials, metals and inorganic substances....

 Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Susan Rosenthal reported during the July 23 RIOC Board meeting that preliminary testing of Roosevelt Island water fountains revealed:

... some high levels, higher than EPA allows, of bacteria, not E-Coli, in some of them. One sample had elevated iron levels..

RIOC is waiting for the results of more tests and hopes to have a preliminary remediation plan within the next 2 weeks.

Stay tuned for more.

RIOC Shuts Down All Roosevelt Island Drinking Water Fountains For Possible Contamination After Receiving Report By Community Activist Frank Farance Of Al Lewis Playground Fountain Connection To Capobianco Field Irrigation System

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

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) announced Friday that it will shut down drinking water fountains on the Island while it investigates potential water source line issues.

RIOC thanks Island resident Frank Farance for sharing his concerns about the fountains with RIOC.

Independent consultants have been enlisted to assist RIOC with its review.

 Image From Frank Farance

Earlier today, Roosevelt Island community activist Frank Farance posted this comment about possible contamination at Roosevelt Island water fountains.

More info on Cat Sanctuary water shut off and eventual restoration here.

Stay tuned for updates.

UPDATE 7/10 - RIOC President Susan Rosenthal's Community report today addresses the water fountain contamination subject:

WATER FOUNTAINS

Healthy Building International Inc. has been retained by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) to conduct water sampling and analysis at several drinking water fountain locations in parks and playgrounds across Roosevelt Island, RIOC President and CEO Susan Rosenthal said Tuesday.

The tests are designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the water and to confirm its acceptability for consumption. The samples will be compared with the relevant federal Department of Environmental Protection (EPA) contaminant levels of microbials, metals and inorganic substances.

A plumbing engineer selected from RIOC’s newly formed A&E (Architectural and Engineering) Services committee (a panel of qualified, multi-disciplined architects and engineers) will help RIOC officials interpret the results, draft and consider potential solutions. The water analysis and a downstream review is focused on each specific point of water line connection to each actual fountain or public use spigot or valve.

RIOC announced last Friday that it was immediately shutting down water fountains after concerns, raised by Roosevelt Island resident Frank Farance about potential water source lines, prompted the agency to schedule the analysis.

“As-built drawings” – the final set of drawings a contractor files to document work, changes, construction processes and the location of all elements of the work completed and maintained - were not archived for work at all the parks and playgrounds built in the early 1970s and maintained thereafter. Those drawings document whether the playground fountains are connected to the irrigation lines or domestic water lines in the area. Without the “as-built” drawings for the other drinking fountains on the Island, RIOC cannot be certain about the connection source of all the other fountains.

RIOC had the “as-builts” for Southpoint Park’s drinking fountain from 2010 and can verify that the water is from its domestic line not the park’s irrigation system.

It was revealed during a recent water use disagreement with Wildlife Freedom Foundation (WFF), which runs cat sanctuaries on the Island, that the WFF water hose was using an irrigation line connection for its Southpoint sanctuary. (WFF has since said it was willing to continue to use “not potable,” irrigation water for their Southpoint sanctuary).

In addition to this project, The A&E services committee is expected to help RIOC manage capital projects, infrastructure maintenance and repairs – including the Sportspark renovations, the FDR Hope Memorial, the Firefighters Field comfort station/bathroom construction, future Lighthouse renovations, elevator consultant and Motorgate repairs - more efficiently and simply put, “get things done more quickly,” Rosenthal said....

RIOC Shuts Off Roosevelt Island Southpoint Park Cat Sanctuary Fresh Water Supply Says Wildlife Freedom Foundation - RIOC Says They Are Looking For Solutions To Water Supply Problems

Roosevelt Island resident Rossana Ceruzzi is founder and President of the Wildlife Freedom Foundation (WFF) According to the WFF:

... The Wildlife Freedom Foundation, Inc. is a non profit organization 501 (c)(3) formed for the purpose of protecting and conserving wildlife and caring for stray animal populations in NYC.

Among other causes, we work to control and reduce the population of stray cats in NYC through the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) and get them adopted when possible; to provide care for stray cats who are not adopted or adoptable; to advocate to prevent and end ALL forms of cruelty towards animals...

And:

... Our Cat Sanctuary in NYC is located on Roosevelt Island in the SouthPoint Park. It houses 22 happy, wonderful stray cats. They are all spayed/neutered, friendly and they love to meet and greet residents and visitors. Come to meet our cats! Share your love....

Ms. Ceruzzi is also a Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Common Council Member. During the June 6 RIRA meeting, Ms Ceruzzi reported that that three weeks ago the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) shut off the fresh water supply for the Southpoint Park Cat sanctuary without any prior notice.

Yesterday, I asked RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson:

At last evening’s RIRA meeting, Rossana Ceruzzi said that RIOC cut off the fresh water supply to the Southpoint Park cat sanctuary?

Is that true? Why?

Rossana said that RIOC claims the cat sanctuary hose is leaking and wasting water.

Rosana denied there is any leaking water and says they use the water judiciously. She also says that cutting off fresh water access endangers the lives of the cats.

Some RIRA members claimed RIOC is using the denial of fresh water as an excuse to remove the cat sanctuary from Southpoint Park.

Any comment from RIOC?

Mr. Roberson replied:

We applaud the volunteer work that the non-profit Wildlife Freedom Foundation (WFF) is doing on Roosevelt Island to help promote compassion and provide protection for wildlife, stray animals and more specifically the feral cat population on the Island.

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has a long history – more than seven years - of supporting the Foundation’s efforts by building several cat sanctuaries, providing locked storage facilities, installing car speed bumps near the cat colonies and just today, awarding the first half of a $5,000 public purpose grant to help subsidize WFF’s program and administrative costs.

But now RIOC - in trying to find a compromise over a water use dispute with WFF - is slandered as an animal cruelty corporation by a few who’ve only heard one-half of the story.

When we learned, more than a month ago, that the Southpoint Park irrigation system tap - of which WFF was using as a water source for drinking and cleaning at its Southpoint Cat Sanctuary - was causing pressure-related problems, we contacted WFF several times via email, telephone and in person to discuss potential solutions.

These alternatives included: installing a new water tap at the Southpoint Park comfort station (with the free use of a push cart) at no cost to WFF; installing a rainwater collection tank with a pressure pump, at no cost to WFF; or building a water line directly to the cat sanctuary, at their expense since this requires us tearing up the pavement, excavation, installing the pipe and then repaving. None of these were acceptable to WFF.

There are two other cat sanctuaries RIOC built on the Island; one near the rear of the NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler parking lot and the other at Pony Field just south of Octagon Park. RIOC does not supply water taps there, but the cats all had an abundance of fresh water in their bowls when we went to check this Thursday afternoon.

And in the six months of the year that the Southpoint irrigation system is not on and no tap is available to WFF (usually in the late fall and winter), none of cats at the Southpoint sanctuary go thirsty. WFF delivers water, by cart or by car, to keep all the felines hydrated.

And there’s one last point we should make. Irrigation system water, like the one WFF was using, is not potable; that means the water is not suitable for drinking by humans or animals since it’s contaminated by fertilizer, pesticides, feces and other contaminates.

Nobody wants the cats ingesting those types of pollutants. Let’s find a solution for the Southpoint Cat Sanctuary that makes healthy sense for everyone.

Here is the hose and water supply for the Southpoint Park Cat Sanctuary.

Below is the RIRA discussion on subject. The RIRA Common Council expressed support for the Cat Sanctuary and are seeking ideas for persuading RIOC to return the fresh water supply.



Some RIRA members were skeptical of RIOC's reason for cutting off the water supply speculating that RIOC may want to remove the Cat Sanctuary from Southpoint Park.



Will update when more info available.

UPDATE 6/10  - Correction, RIOC told Ms Ceruzzi that reason for shutting off water supply was "negative impact on pressure and flow".

UPDATE 6/17:

@Rooseveltisland
URGENT CALL FOR HELP:
Tell @RIOCny #TurnOnTheWater at the Cat Sanctuary in Southpoint Park!!
Tomorrow will reach 93F The Cats Need water!!

— Wildlife Freedom Foundation (@wffny) June 17, 2018

🆘🐾 Hey, @RIOCny! Have a heart - Turn the water back on for the @wffny's #cat colony in Southpoint Park on #RooseveltIsland! 🐾🆘 #TurnTheWaterOn #TNR #CommunityCats pic.twitter.com/IZYUU1ymEz

— 🍍brighid🍍 (@banastasiao) June 17, 2018

UPDATE 6/25 - RIOC agreed to restore the water supply to WFF Cat Sanctuary today following a meeting with Ms. Ceruzzi. According to this statement from RIOC:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) announced today an agreement with the non-profit Wildlife Freedom Foundation (WFF) to reactivate water access at the Island’s Southpoint Park cat sanctuary.

“WFF has agreed to use the water supply in a way as to not adversely impact the RIOC irrigation system,” RIOC President Susan Rosenthal said Monday afternoon. “WFF also does not believe that the recirculated, non-potable irrigation system water will harm the feral cats at the sanctuary”.

Those were two of the main issues RIOC cited earlier this month in statements explaining its decision to not permit WFF to connect to the irrigation system. (The non-potable irrigation system water – which is not safe to drink – has nothing to do with the Island’s domestic water supply).

The resolution came after an hour-long meeting between RIOC officials – including Rosenthal, Chief Operating Officer Shelton Haynes, General Counsel Jaci Flug, and Vice President of Capital Project Stephen Noone – and Rossana Ceruzzi, president of WFF and her legal representatives. Noone explained details of how the Southpoint Park irrigation system works, how the WFF tap had caused pressure issues, how sprinkler heads reabsorb excess run-off water - that often contain “harmful for human and animal” consumption organic fertilizers, pesticides, animal feces, and other materials – from the lawn and flower beds.

The Southpoint cat sanctuary is one of four sanctuaries for more than 60 feral cats on the Island. During the past seven years, RIOC has supported WFF by helping build the sanctuaries, enclosing sanctuary areas with chain-link fencing, providing free storage for cat supplies and food as well as this year providing $5,000 for WFF administrative and program costs.

“Considering the relationship RIOC and WFF have enjoyed for years, I’m very pleased that this is now resolved,” Rosenthal said.

Ms Ceruzzi spoke to the June 25 RIOC Board of Directors Meeting Public Session announcing the agreement to restore water to the cat sanctuary.

Roosevelt Island Residents Ask Why NYC Department Of Environmental Protection Shutting Down Water In Riverwalk Buildings Today and Friday - The Answer Is Cornell Tech Construction Site Temporary Hydrant Removal

Residents of Roosevelt Island's Southtown Riverwalk Buildings



received notice from Related Rentals

that their water was scheduled to be shut down for a few hours today and Friday. According to a message sent to residents by Related Rentals last Monday:

We received notification from the Department of Environmental Protection this afternoon of a planned water shut down for testing at two scheduled times this week affecting all nearby buildings. Your awareness and understanding throughout the repair process will be greatly appreciated.

On Wednesday, October 26, water will be shut off from 9:00am through 1:00pm for approximately 4 hours.

On Friday, October 28, water will be shut off from 9:00am through 12:00pm for approximately 3 hours.

In order to prepare for this outage, we suggest the following:

• Fill containers with water to provide for your needs
• Close all faucets.
• Plan necessary clothes washing and showers ahead of time.

Reminder and update notices will be posted in the building ahead of the water disruptions.

Unfortunately this interruption is out of our hands and is caused by work being performed by the DEP. We thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation and apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

Several residents were concerned about why the NYC Department of Environmental Protection would be shutting down the water for Riverwalk Buildings and asked:

Do you happen to know why the DEP is testing the water on Roosevelt Island? I'm getting nervous since my kids drink a lot of water :-).

Also:

We just found out ... that there will be no water in any of the RW buildings tomorrow 9-12- not 405, 480, etc. etc.- that whole section of the island. Supposedly EPA is checking something about the water tomorrow and Fri. If you have any more information about it please let me know thank you!

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal yesterday:

The water is being shut off in Southtown Riverwalk buildings tomorrow morning.

I'm told that DEP is checking water quality in Roosevelt Island and I have been receiving emails from residents who are concerned about the water.

Does RIOC know what is going on with the water shut off? Any reason to be concerned about water quality?

RIOC Vice President of Operations Shelton Haynes replied:

It is our understanding that DEP has conducted testing today from 9am to 1pm and have an actual shutdown scheduled for Friday from 9am to 12pm. The purpose of the Test Shutdown is to confirm the functionality of the valves (x2) that will be closed during the actual shutdown on Friday. This is all in relation a temporary hydrant being removed (on Friday 11-4) within the Cornell Tech job site. We hope this was helpful.

Undocumented Roosevelt Island Water Main Cut During Cornell NYC Tech Construction - Southtown Riverwalk Apartments Getting Brown Water In Sinks, Toilets And Showers

Residents of Roosevelt Island Riverwalk Buidings in Southtown experienced problems with brown water coming from their sinks, toilets and showers today. From the Roosevelt Island twitterverse

@Rooseveltisland 405 main has dark brown water for the past 3 hours, as do some of the other buildings in southtown.
— Ilene Weinerman (@ilenewe) January 20, 2014

Residents from other Riverwalk buildings added this afternoon:

It's happening in 405. I was told it was a water main break.

and:

i am having the same problem in 465

and:

yes in 425, eeeew.

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Charlene Indelicato:

Residents of Southtown Riverwalk buildings are reporting having brownish water coming from their sinks, toilets and showers this afternoon

Some are being told it is caused by a water main break at building 7 construction site.

Does RIOC have any information on this matter?

RIOC Public Safety Department Director Jack McManus reported that an undocumented water main pipe was cut on the northwest side of the former Goldwater Hospital site

Roosevelt Island Water Main Break On Site of Cornell NYC Tech Construciton

during construction drilling for the new Cornell NYC Tech campus.

Worker Cleaning Up After Water Main Break

Public Safety Director McManus advises residents in Riverwalk buildings not to drink the tap water or take showers until more information is available.

NYC Department of Environmental Protection was on the scene of the water main break.

Unknown Roosevelt Island cables, pipes and other underground material beneath Goldwater Hospital may be a continual problem during Cornell NYC Tech construction.

UPDATE 7:04 PM - RIOC sent out the following advisory at 7:02 PM:

Earlier this afternoon, a Water Main Break occurred at the former Goldwater Hospital site during construction drilling for the new Cornell Tech Campus. Residents of Southtown Riverwalk buildings have reported "brownish" water coming from their sinks, toilets and showers. The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), who is overseeing the repair to the water main, advises residents not to drink or shower in the water until the water main is repaired and the water returns to its normal color.

UPDATE 1/21 at 8:30 AM - RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reports no further information from DEP regarding safety of water though she hopes to get an answer this morning.

UPDATE 9:35 AM - RIOC President Indelicato reports being told by DEP that the  Roosevelt Island water from Rivercross building south, including Riverwalk Buildings is unsafe for drinking and bathing until further notice.

UPDATE 9:50 AM - Related Management, the building managers for Riverwalk buildings sent the following notice to its residents today:

Date: January 21, 2014 Re: Contaminated Water Situation Please be advised that there is a contaminated water situation currently on the island and residents are experiencing brown water. PLEASE DO NOT BATH OR USE THE DOMESTIC WATER UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. The Department of Environmental Protection is on the Island performing tests and has not determined if the water is safe for consumption yet. The contamination occurred as a result of construction at the Goldwater Hospital and the pipe has already been fixed but we are still awaiting the water test results. As soon as we have more information we will share it with you. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

UPDATE 10:42 - According to RIOC:

Please be advised that due to a Water Main Break at the former Goldwater Hospital site on January 20th 2014, residents of Southtown Riverwalk and the Rivercross buildings should refrain from drinking or bathing in the water from their sinks, tubs, or showers until further notice. Residents should also refrain from drinking or bathing in water at the Sportspark facility and all other buildings south of the Rivercross complex. The Department of Environmental Protection is working to correct the problem. For further information you may contact the DEP directly at (718) 595-4200/ 4201.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

UPDATE 2:55 PM - NYC DEP Press Spokesperson confirms that Roosevelt Island water is safe for drinking and bathing. Also advises if water is discolored to let it run for a few minutes until it becomes clear.

RIOC adds:

Please be advised that residents in the Rivercross complex and all buildings south of Rivercross may bathe in and drink the water from their taps. If the water appears dirty, be advised that this is not a health issue, but taps may be run until the lines are cleared. Residents are advised to call 311 with any inquiries.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Rivercross management sent the following memo to its residents:

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection has reported that the water serving Rivercross and the other water main break effected buildings on Roosevelt Island, is safe to use. If you see any discoloration in the water, let it run until clear. This is also the reason why the laundry rooms were shut; as the drop in pressure caused by the break, caused particulate matter to clog the machine filters and shut them down. They have all been cleared since and both laundry rooms are functioning normally.

and Related Management sent this memo to Riverwalk resident:

Please be advised the water is safe to consume and use. The Department of Environmental Protection has confirmed their findings moments ago and residents can resume using the water from the building’s water supply.

We apologize for the inconvenience that this has caused.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

Roosevelt Island Fire Hydrant Spilling Water For Past Three Weeks But No Response From RIOC, NYC 311 Or DEP

Roosevelt Island resident Rossana Ceruzzi reports:

There is a broken fire hydrant that has been wasting a lot of water now for 3 weeks.

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

I have called the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC), Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and NYC 311 but the water is still running The hydrant is in the back of Goldwater Building C on the Queens side two buildings after Sportspark.

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

I also called the FDNY and they went to inspect. FDNY said there is large damage and DEP has to intervene.

Image From Rossana Ceruzzi

It's a shame to waste so much water.

Roosevelt Island Southtown Water Main Shutdown On Tuesday 5/11 After 9 AM - No Water For Riverwalk Building at 405 & 415 Main Street

Received the following advisory from Roosevelt Island Operating Corp. (RIOC)

Please be advised on Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 9:00 a.m., DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) will be shutting the 20" water main on the Southern part of Main Street from buildings 405 to 415 Main Street. The only buildings that will be affected are Riverwalk's / Southtown's 405 and 415 Main Street. The rest of the buildings in Southtown will not be effected. Those buildings that are effected will have no water for an estimated 4 hours. The shut down is necessary to detect if the main is leaking which is causing a water flood in a ConEdison Electrical Vault next to the tram. DEP has informed us that the shut down will only take up to 4 hours.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Octagon Water Shutdown On Thursday Due To Comfort Station and DEP Sewer Installation - Other Roosevelt Island Buildings May Experience Dirty Water

Image of Time To Drink Toilet Water from Slate

RIOC has issued the following No Water Advisory for the Octagon beginning Thursday, January 21 at 6 PM.

Please be advised, on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 6 p.m. DEP will be shutting down the water main that supplies The Octagon Building. The shut down is necessary for the installation of the Octagon Comfort Station and DEP site sanitary sewer. The shut down will be from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. The Octagon Building is the only building that will experience "No Water", all other buildings may experience dirty water when the main is turned back on.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Latest Update On Manhattan Park Water Main Shutdown

Water Main Construction in Front of Manhattan Park's 40 River Road

RIOC President Steve Shane sends the latest update on Manhattan Park water main shutdown in front of 40 River Road.

Latest word from DEP is that the job is now scheduled for Friday evening December 12, with shut off of water main to occur at 9PM and estimated to last 8-10 hours.
Stay tuned for any further updates.

Another Update On Manhattan Park Water Main Shutdown

RIOC President Steve Shane sends the next update on Manhattan Park water main shutdown in front of 40 River Road.

Latest (12/04/08):
Please be advised that RIOC met with DEP, ConEd and Halcyon construction this afternoon. Halcyon will provide all the labor and material necessary to replace the leaking water main sections on Main Street between the AVAC building and 40 River Road under the direction (and on the tab of) of the DEP. Halcyon will also permanently relocate the ConEd 17,000 volt feeder under the direction of ConEd. They will then backfill the entire excavated area to grade.

They expect to complete the site prep by Tuesday December 9th. Because the water shutdown will affect PS 217, they intend to schedule the actual water shutdown and piping replacement for Friday evening December 12th. The relocation of the ConEd feeder and the backfilling to grade should be completed by Tuesday, December 16th.

Update on Manhattan Park Water Main Shutdown

Construction in front of 40 River Road

RIOC President Steve Shane provides this update concerning the water main shutdown and repair in front of 40 River Road.

DEP has just advised that it is taking over the excavation and repair at the northern end of Manhattan Park in Main Street effective Friday, including relocating the Con Edison cable, as necessary. Depending on what DEP finds on full excavation, the water shutoff may take place during the evening over the weekend. DEP prefers weekend shutoff because of the mandated impact at the school. Will advise as further information is available.

No Water For Roosevelt Island's Manhattan Park On Day After Thanksgiving - Prepare Yourself

Image of Time To Drink Toilet Water from Slate

Imagine it's Friday, the day after gorging on Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing, cranberries, family, friends, football and all the other extras that accompany the holiday. All you want to do is relax, recover and not be bothered by anything.

If you live in Roosevelt Island's Manhattan Park complex that may be difficult to accomplish because you will not have any water for the entire day. RIOC President Steve Shane sends the following message regarding water being shut off at Manhattan Park.

On Friday, November 28, 2008 RIOC is scheduling DEP for the water main shut down and repair, in front of 40 River Road on Main Street. DEP has informed us to notify all building managers that the water will be off for 24 hrs, even though the job may only take 8 hrs it is better to inform all residents of Manhattan Park as well as the Post Office and Gristede's Supermarket that it may take up to 24 hrs.

The buildings and area's that will be effected are, all of Manhattan Park, the Public School PS/IS217, Post Office, Motorgate building and Gristede's.

Please post signs of the water shut down in your buildings and also inform me of your fire protection, reserves of water for fire suppression systems.

Despite it being the Thanksgiving weekend Mr. Shane advises that this is:

Best to be done when school is not in session.

Although I hope we never need it here on Roosevelt Island, the astronauts orbiting the earth in the Space Station are experimenting with ways to make up for the lack of drinking water. From the AP:

After several days without luck, astronauts finally ran a successful test on equipment that turns urine into drinking water — a necessity for supporting the international space station's crew, which will soon double.

"Not to spoil anything, but I think up here the appropriate words are 'Yippee!'" space station commander Mike Fincke told Mission Control early Tuesday morning, shortly before bedtime....

Manhattan Park residents - Be Prepared!

UPDATE - 6:50 PM - Mr. Shane provides the following information regarding schedule change of Manhattan Park water shutdown:

See revised e mail below changing scheduled water shut off. Note shut off will now be either Tuesday or Wednesday night, depending on what is found as a result of the excavation to begin Monday. Apologies to all for inconvenience, but weather is a problem.

"Preparations for the water main shutdown, affecting: Manhattan Park, Gristedes, Motorgate, RIOC Transportation Garage, the US Post Office and PS/IS 217, have been delayed by the inclement weather. DEP and RIOC are forced to postpone the shutdown and repair until next week.

Excavation for the repair will resume Monday morning Dec. 1st.

Depending on the conditions encountered, DEP is tentatively scheduling an evening shutdown for either Tuesday 12/2 or Wednesday 12/3.

The shutdown would occur between 6 :00 PM and 6:30 PM, with an estimated duration of 8 hours. Because of possible repair complications, DEP urges residents to be prepared for a duration of up to 24 hours....

And:

BTW, you can inform your anonymous commenter that the reason it's best to have a water shut down when school is not in session is that the regulations require the school be closed when the water is off for fire safety reasons.

The Friday after Thanksgiving can now be a relaxing day for Manhattan Park residents.