Showing posts with label blizzard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blizzard. Show all posts

Thursday, January 4, 2018

Roosevelt Island Winter Snowstorm Emergency - Very Dangerous Outside, Trucks Will Be Plowing And Salting Roadways Day & Night, Remove Cars From Main Street Says RIOC

This morning, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal and Public Safety Department Chief Jack McManus:
Rioc usually sends out advisories before snowstorms that no Main Street parking is allowed but available at Motorgate for free.

No such advisory was sent out for today’s snowstorm.

Why? Any statement from Rioc on matter?
This afternoon RIOC issued the following advisory:
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for our area on Thursday, January 4th, 2018, due to snow, forecasted temperatures, and/or wind chills.

Total snow accumulation is expected to be between 6-12 inches. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel. Please drive slowly, use major streets or highways, and keep the name and number of at least one local towing service in your vehicle. Pedestrians should avoid slippery surfaces, dress in layers, and maintain a heightened awareness of cars, especially when crossing intersections

Please be advised that, due to the Snow Emergency, there is “NO PARKING, NO STOPPING OR NO STANDING” on Main St. or the East and West Roadways from, Thursday, January 4th, 2018 at 5:00PM THRU Friday, January 5th, 2018 at 11:00PM, in order for snow removal to take place.

As an alternative, free parking will be available at the Motorgate Garage starting at 5PM, Thurs, Jan. 4th, 2018. Please note that free parking is only for residents of the island. Proof of residency and vehicle registration must be presented upon entering. Vehicle must be registered to a Roosevelt Island resident. Vehicles accommodated for snow emergency must be moved by 11PM on Fri, Jan. 5th, 2018 when Main Street reopens for parking. After that time, standard Motorgate parking fees will apply. Please contact the Motorgate Garage at (212) 832-4585 or visit the Motorgate offices on the fourth floor if you have any additional questions.

Trucks will be plowing and salting the roadways throughout the day and night in order to avert dangerous travel conditions. RIOC will be working to keep all areas clean for the duration of the storm. Expect delays in Red Bus and Tram service. Thank you for your cooperation while necessary preparations for the storm and subsequent snow removal are taking place.

To report any icy or other hazardous areas, please call the Public Safety Department at 212-832-4545 as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
 Roosevelt Island Main Street at 1:30 This Afternoon

A long time Roosevelt Island resident shares this message sent to RIOC President Rosenthal this morning:
... As a long-timer & veteran of many snowstorms & RIOC Administrations, I was surprised there was no Advisory yesterday requesting / requiring cars be moved off Main Street south of Manhattan Park & the East & West Channel Drives & offering free parking at Motorgate.

That always guarantees DSNY & RIOC curb-to-curb street & cross-walk cleaning for those folks who have to be out & for unfettered Island access by NYPD & FDNY to both ends of the Island.

I am surprised I received 3 RIOC Advisories on SportsPark & Good Shepherd & nothing yet about the Tram, Red Bus service or any plowing or pavement/sidewalk activity....
and Ms. Rosenthal's reply:
We decided within the last 45 minutes to require cars to be moved. Our staff knows what to do in this storm and I realized in the first few minutes of our emergency meeting at 591, that I'm really not needed! All those copied have their teams doing what needs to be done to protect our community. I'm so very proud of them!

... Jack was here at 5am with many staffers. The storm model was changing every hour. Moving cars off Main Street can be a major imposition to residents' work schedules and to the many disabled on our island. If we can avoid removing cars, it is preferable. I have been here, am in charge and am fully in the know.
PSD Chief McManus adds:
... there have been no less than 6 Dept of Sanitation visits to the Island. I saw the first one at 6:00 am and they have continued to plow and sand every 40 minutes give or take a minute. RIOC's Ground Department has been out since roughly 6:00 am as well.

Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Roosevelt Island Tram Only NYC Elevated Transit Option Operating During Stella Snowstorm Today - Watch "Blizzard" Time Lapse Tram Ride Video

While the MTA shut down the elevated NYC subway stations and airlines have cancelled flights in and out of NYC for today's snowstorm, the Roosevelt Island Tram has been carrying riders over the East River today. Resident Nick Turner tweets:

Stella turned out not to be a blizzard or dump as much snow as expected
but heavy winds are still out there.
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Tram History fact sheet:
... The Tram can operate in all weather conditions except for lightning and winds over 50 miles per hour....
Some Roosevelt Island scenes from today's snowstorm

A post shared by Christian John Garrido (@christianjgarrido) on


UPDATE 8:25 PM - View of snowstorm from the Octagon today.

Monday, March 13, 2017

Winter Is Coming To NYC Tomorrow, Blizzard With Up To 20 Inches Of Snow Expected - Get Your Cars Off Roosevelt Island Roadways, School Closed, RI Youth Center Open & Senior Center Open With Limited Hours

Image Of RIOC Plowing From January 2016 Snowstorm 

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for our area beginning Tuesday, March 14th, 2017, due to snow, forecasted temperatures, and/or wind chills at or below 32 degrees.

Total snow accumulation is expected to be between 12- 15 inches. Pedestrians should avoid slippery surfaces, dress in layers, and maintain a heightened awareness of cars, especially when crossing intersections

Please be advised that, due to the Snow Emergency, there is “NO PARKING, NO STOPPING OR NO STANDING” on Main St. or the East and West Roadways from, Tuesday, March 14th, 2017 at 6:00 AM THRU Wednesday, March 15th, 2017 at 8:00 PM, in order for snow preparation and subsequent removal to take place.

Removing cars from the roadways in preparation for salting and plowing is essential for snow removal to take place. We thank you for your cooperation.

As an alternative, free parking will be available at the Motorgate Garage, (space permitting), starting at 8:00 PM on Monday, March 13th, 2017. Please note that free parking is only for residents of the island. Proof of residency and vehicle registration must be presented upon entering. Vehicles accommodated for snow emergency must be moved by 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 15th, 2017, when Main Street reopens for parking. After that time standard Motorgate parking fees will apply. Please contact the Motorgate Garage at (212) 832-4585 or visit the Motorgate offices on the fourth floor if you have any additional questions.

Trucks will be plowing and salting the roadways throughout the day and night in order to avert dangerous travel conditions. RIOC will be working to keep all areas clean for the duration of the storm. Expect delays in Red Bus and Tram service. Thank you for your cooperation while necessary preparations for the storm and subsequent snow removal are taking place.

To report any icy or other hazardous areas or conditions, please call the Public Safety Department at 212-832-4545 as soon as possible.
NYC Public Schools are closed tomorrow
But the Roosevelt Island Youth Program (RIYP) reports that the Youth Center will be open. According to RIYP:
The Roosevelt Island Youth Center (506 Main Street) will be open tomorrow March 14 from 2-8pm for age 10 years old and up.

If you have any question or you need further information please call 917 771 7815.
The Roosevelt Island Senior Center Carter Burden Program reports they will be open too but with limited hours.
Hello Snow Bunnies!

Please be advised, due to the impending blizzard tomorrow, Tuesday March 14th:
  • We will be open with limited hours: 9am-1pm for COFFEE & LUNCH only.
  • All other activities are cancelled. This includes: AARP Tax Assistance, Forever Young, Blood Pressure Screenings, Reiki, People, Places & Things Art Workshop and computer lab access.
  • I’ve also received word the RIOC Shopping Bus will not run.
We plan to open with normal hours & hold all activities on Wednesday, March 15th.
Last week, we thought Spring was here on Roosevelt Island but Winter Is Coming.



Let's see how tomorrow's blizzard compares to the top 5 NYC March Snowstorms.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Roosevelt Island Main Street Blizzard Snow Emergency Parking Ban Lifted Noon Today - Motorgate Snow Emergency Courtesy Parking Over 6 PM Today

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) reports:

As of 12 pm today Wednesday January 27th, 2016, the Main Street parking ban due to the snow emergency has been lifted. Vehicles may be parked on Main Street at that time. All vehicles parked in the Motorgate Garage under the snow emergency courtesy must be removed by 6 pm today, January 27, 2016
Most vehicles were removed from Main Street during the snow emergency parking ban


but not


all.

RIOC Public Safety Director Jack McManus adds:
The RIOC team appreciates the help given by Roosevelt Island residents during this snow emergency
We appreciate the work done by RIOC, building managements and residents as well.

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

NYC Blizzard Brings Nearly 30 Inches Of Snow To Roosevelt Island - RIOC And Building Management Clean Up Of Roads And Sidewalks Is Pretty Good

 Image Of Roosevelt Island Blizzard From Joyce Short

Last Saturday's NYC Blizzard brought nearly 30 inches of snow to Roosevelt Island according to the FDR Four Freedoms Park.
How did Roosevelt Island do cleaning up the roads and sidewalks from the January 23 NYC Blizzard. Very well, according to this tweet by a resident.
For the most part, a good job was done by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) and building managements making Roosevelt Island roads and sidewalks accessible  for pedestrians and vehicles on Sunday. the day after the blizzard.

Except on Sunday there were portions of Main Street sidewalk at the Riverwalk Commons,


in front of Island House,


and Manhattan Park


that were not plowed, making it very difficult to walk in those areas.

Also, the Good Shepherd side entrance was not plowed either. until a couple of residents decided to do it themselves.


On Monday, the snow around Riverwalk Commons


Island House


and Good Shepherd

areas were removed.

But the snow by Manhattan Park remained.


RIOC President Charlene Indelicato had this to say about the Roosevelt Island response to Saturday's blizzard:
Building Managers were invited to a pre snow meeting to discuss plans for the storm. Some building managers showed – others did not. We will reach out to all again stressing the importance of such meetings.

We also intend to look at all the leases and delineate responsibilities in accordance with the leases. On first glance, it does appear that some buildings and businesses, if not all, are responsible for their sidewalks and adjoining areas. This being said, RIOC has always tried to attend to our roadways and sidewalk areas to insure the safety, health and welfare of the public.

We will be meeting with the individual managers of the buildings and businesses to develop a coordinated effort of keeping roads and sidewalks clear of snow/ice and debris.

I believe that working together we will have even better results than we have now.

I also would like to take this opportunity to thank all who worked so hard to clean the Island. I would ask Jack Mc Manus, Cy Opperman, Fernando Vargas and Juan Rivera please share with your respective teams my heartfelt gratitude for a job well done. The snow was record and the effort as well.
Frank Farance comments and shares these photos: 
Pedestrian safety hazard fixed just before storm, thanks to PSD Director Jack McManus. Stepping in the hole would have been a broken ankle or leg - not mention a snow plow lifting up plates.


Construction crew closed the hole and welded the plates together.


RIOC's incomplete shoveling job, no way for handicap users to access Sunday's 8:15 Mass.

By Monday, most of the Roosevelt Island roads and sidewalks


were clear of snow.

Good job by RIOC, building management and residents
removing most of the snow from Roosevelt Island roads and sidewalks.

For comparison, here's a report on the blizzard clean up in Queens.

Monday, January 25, 2016

Awesome Video Of Snowboarding Streets Of New York City During Saturday's Blizzard - But Not On Roosevelt Island

Casey Neistat and friends decided to go out in Saturday's NYC Blizzard.

Watch what happens.



Click on full screen icon for better view.

Here's how the Snowboarding With NYPD video was made.



Nothing that exciting on Roosevelt Island during Saturday's Blizzard but we did have a some

cross country skiers.

Saturday, January 23, 2016

Scenes From Today's NYC Blizzard From Roosevelt Island - Sledding, Skiing, Jogging, Shoveling & More

Some Roosevelt Island scenes from today's blizzard. (Earlier posts here and here)

Sledding at Southtownt Hill.


Cross country skiing.

Bike riding.


Jogging.


A walk by Blackwell House.

Images By Susheel

Making Snow Angels.
A video posted by Adam Harraway (@adamharraway) on

Basketball?
Tram Service until shut down at 4 PM.
Bringing groceries home.


Snow removal.

 Image From Susheel

The swirling wind.
 View of Queensboro Bridge.
It will end.
Don't think anybody had a better time in the snow than Tian Tian  Panda in Washington DC.
Enjoy the snow tomorrow.

UPDATE 1/24 - From the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
As of 6 AM this morning, Sun., Jan. 24th, regular tram service has been restored.

At this time, Red Bus service has resumed. The F train and MTA bus services are operating with delays.

Roosevelt Island Scenes From Today's NYC Blizzard - Up To The Neck In Snow But Farmers Market and Big Reuse Food Scrap Composting Open, FDR Park Closed

A Roosevelt Island resident reports that the Farmers Market is open today:
Despite the blizzard, the Farmers Market IS OPEN today! Go buy their fruits and vegetables!! These guys faithfully drove in from PA last night to serve our community.
and the Big Reuse Food Scrap Compost booth is open too.


The FDR Four Freedoms Park adds:
Due to weather, the Park will be closed today. We have staff onsite clearing snow and anticipate being able to open tomorrow. If you have any questions, please let me know. Stay safe and warm!
UPDATE 10:45 AM:
UPDATE 11:10 AM:
UPDATE 12:30 PM - From RIOC:
Please be advised, MTA Bus Service will stop running at 12 PM and Red Bus service will cease at 12:15 PM today, Sat. Jan. 23rd, until further notice.
Gristedes, Duane Reade, Wholesome Factory Organic Market, Main Street Sweets, Subway Sandwich Shop, Starbucks, Fuji East, Island Wine Shop, Piccolo Pizza, China One and M&D Deli are open. Riverwalk Bar is closed.

UPDATE 1:20 PM - From RIOC:
Due to weather conditions, the tram will shutdown service at 4 PM today, Sat., Jan. 23rd, until further notice. The tram is currently running on the 15 minute schedule. A separate advisory will be issued once normal operating times are scheduled to resume.
UPDATE 6:40 PM - More Roosevelt Island pictures from today's blizzard.

UPDATE 1/24 - From RIOC:
As of 6 AM this morning, Sun., Jan. 24th, regular tram service has been restored.

At this time, Red Bus service has resumed. The F train and MTA bus services are operating with delays.

Friday, January 22, 2016

Blizzard Coming To NYC Tomorrow, Snow Forecast 12 - 18 Inches - Stay Safe And Warm On Roosevelt Island



Winter Is Coming to Roosevelt Island.

 2014  RIOC Plow Removing Snow From Roosevelt Island's Main Street

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Watch and hazardous travel advisory for our area beginning at 4 AM on Saturday, Jan. 23rd, until 12 PM Sunday, January 24th. The system is forecast to bring heavy snow along with strong and potentially damaging winds, and will create slick and hazardous travel conditions. Total snow accumulation is expected to be between 12-18 inches. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel. Please drive slowly, use major streets or highways, and keep the name and number of at least one local towing service. Pedestrians should avoid slippery surfaces, dress in layers, and maintain a heightened awareness of cars, especially when crossing intersections.

Trucks will be plowing and salting the roadways throughout the day and night in order to avert dangerous travel conditions. RIOC will be working to keep all areas clean for the duration of the storm. Expect delays in Red Bus and Tram service. Thank you for your cooperation while necessary preparations for the storm and subsequent snow removal are taking place.

We will be updating the community with important parking, facility closures, and other service changes throughout the storm, so please stay tuned.

To report any icy or other hazardous areas, please call the Public Safety Department at 212-832-4545 as soon as possible.

For more information please visit https://a858-nycnotify.nyc.gov/notifynyc/
The Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA adds:
Our Saturday Family Dance is postponed in light of the Blizzard Watch issued by the US Weather Service. We are particularly concerned with the combination of wind and snow and the ability of school employees and vendors for the dance to safely get in and out of the city.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused, and will keep you updated on the revised date of the event. The tentative date for the Dance is February 27th.

Thank you for your support and understanding. Stay warm and safe!
Will post more information regarding the blizzard's impact on Roosevelt Island as it becomes available.

Stay tuned.

UDPATE 5:25 PM - RIOC adds:
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning citywide from 4 AM Saturday, Jan. 23rd to 12 PM Sunday, Jan. 24th. The current forecast calls for 12-18 inches of snow, accompanied by strong winds.

Please be advised that there is NO PARKING on Main St. or the East and West Roadways from Sat., Jan. 23rd at 12 AM to Mon., Jan. 25th at 12 PM, in order for snow preparation and subsequent removal to take place. Residents should move their cars off the roads as soon as possible.

Free parking will be available at the Motorgate Garage starting at 8 PM, Fri., Jan. 22nd. Please note that free parking is only for residents of the island. Proof of residency and vehicle registration must be presented upon entering. Vehicle must be registered to Roosevelt Island resident. Vehicles accommodated for snow emergency must be moved at 12 PM on Mon., Jan. 25th when Main Street reopens for parking. After that time standard Motorgate parking fees will apply. Please contact the Motorgate Garage at (212) 832-4585 or visit the Motorgate offices on the fourth floor if you have any additional questions.

Removing cars from the roadways in preparation for salting and plowing is essential for snow removal to take place. We thank you for your cooperation.
UPDATE 8:40 PM - From RIOC:
Due to the incoming storm, Sportspark will be closed this weekend, Saturday, January 23rd – Sunday, January 24th. A separate advisory will be issued once normal operating hours are scheduled to resume.
UPDATE 1/12 10:35 AM - From RIOC:
Due to the blizzard, all Roosevelt Island parks, including Four Freedoms Park, are closed today, Sat., Jan. 23rd. Advisories will be issued to update the public on future developments.
More Roosevelt Island Blizzard news and photos here.

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

NYC Spared From Worst Of Blizzard - Roosevelt Island Tram And Red Bus Service Restored At 9 AM, F Train Operating On Sunday Basis

The NY Times reports:
After New York City was shut down overnight, with subway service suspended for snow for the first time in its history, it was spared the worst of a snowstorm that swept across the Northeast early Tuesday. As travel bans were lifted and transit services gradually restored, the city slowly returned to its normal rhythms....
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):
Notification issued 1/27/2015 at 9:15 AM. As of 9:00 AM, Red Bus and Tram service has been restored and are scheduled to run every 15 minutes.

The MTA has advised that all subway and bus service is being gradually restored and will run on a Sunday schedule until further notice. Service is extremely limited; expect extensive delays.

Please remain cautious; travel only when necessary and check in on your elderly and/or disabled neighbors.
Governor Cuomo announced this morning:
... MTA buses and subways will begin to resume this morning and by 12:00 p.m. will be operating on a Sunday schedule for the rest of the day and will resume normal service on Wednesday.

Roads and Bridges

The travel ban for all state and local roads has been lifted. Drivers should continue to use extreme caution and prepare properly as driving conditions remain poor and other states still may have travel bans in effect....
The Queensboro Bridge last night was empty of vehicles.

Monday, January 26, 2015

NYC Blizzard Coming Today And Tomorrow, Roosevelt Island Update From RIOC - Get Your Cars Off Roads For Snow Removal, Free Parking At Motorgate For Residents. Also RIOC Operations Committee And Cornell Tech Community Task Force Meetings Tonight Cancelled


According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)
RIOC will periodically issue updates via RIOC Advisories during this storm. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. For local assistance, call Public Safety at 212-832-4545.

Notification issued 1/26/2015 at 11:10 AM. The National Weather Service has issued a "Winter Weather Advisory" for our area, beginning today, Monday January 26th at 1 PM until Wednesday, January 28th. The current forecast calls for 24-36 inches of snow accompanied by strong winds.

Effective immediately, there is NO PARKING on Main Street or the East and West Roadways in order for snow preparation and subsequent removal to take place. Residents should move their cars off the roads as soon as possible.

As an alternative, free parking will be available to residents only in the Motorgate Garage. This accommodation is subject to change based on weather conditions. Residents who do not remove their vehicles from the garage by 4 PM on Thursday, January 29, will be charged for any extra time by Motorgate Management. Residents must present identification upon exiting to qualify. Please contact the Motorgate Garage at (212) 832-4585 or visit the Motorgate offices on the fourth floor if you have any additional questions.

Please be prudent and safe whether driving or walking and take the time to look in on elderly and/or disabled neighbors.
and:
RIOC will periodically issue updates via RIOC Advisories during this storm. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. For local assistance, call Public Safety at 212-832-4545.

Notification issued 1/26/2015 at 11:30 PM. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for our area beginning at 1 PM today until Thursday, January 28th. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel. Please drive slowly, use major streets or highways, and keep the name and number of at least one local towing service on hand. Pedestrians should avoid slippery surfaces, dress in layers, and maintain a heightened awareness of cars, especially when crossing intersections.

Trucks will be plowing and salting the roadways throughout the day and during the night in order to avert dangerous travel conditions. RIOC will be working to keep all areas clean for the duration of the storm. Thank you for your cooperation while necessary preparations for the storm and subsequent snow removal are taking place.

To report any icy or other hazardous areas, please call the Public Safety Department at 212-832-4545 as soon as possible.
Also, today's scheduled meeting of the RIOC Operations Advisory Committee and the Cornell Tech Community Task Force have been cancelled due to the weather.

The National Weather Service reports:
This Afternoon Periods of snow. High near 29. Wind chill values between 10 and 15. Blustery, with a northeast wind 17 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Tonight Snow with widespread blowing snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Some thunder is also possible. Low around 22. Wind chill values between 10 and 15. Blustery, with a north wind 21 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 8 to 12 inches possible.

Tuesday Snow with widespread blowing snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Some thunder is also possible. High near 26. Wind chill values between 10 and 15. Blustery, with a north wind around 22 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 7 to 11 inches possible.

Tuesday Night Light snow likely, mainly before 9pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Wind chill values between 5 and 10. Blustery, with a northwest wind 18 to 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 28. Northwest wind 11 to 17 mph.
Be careful and stay safe.

UPDATE 1:35 PM - According to the Roosevelt Island Youth Program:
The Youth Center will be open today from 3pm-8pm for Middle and High School Students. However, all Beacon Afterschool Activities are canceled due to inclement weather.

School is canceled for tomorrow. So, the Youth Center will be open from 12pm to 8pm for Middle and High School students.
the Roosevelt Island Public Library,:
The Roosevelt Island Library will close early today, 1/26/15, at 5:00pm today (We usually open until 8pm on Mondays.

There has not been decision about tomorrow's library schedule yet. Please visit http://www.nypl.org for the latest updates.
and FDR Four Freedoms Park:
Following the early closure of SouthPoint Park today (Monday, 1/26), Four Freedoms Park closed at 1:00 p.m. As we are normally closed on Tuesdays, we will remain closed tomorrow. We will notify the group when we are set to re-open and will be posting this information on our website and through social media.
UPDATE 2:55 PM - The Roosevelt Island Seniors Association Health & Wellness seminar scheduled for 4 PM today was cancelled.

From the Roosevelt Island Twitterverse:
Starbucks closed


this afternoon at 2 PM (I am missing my Iced Mocha).

UPDATE 3:40 - No pizza deliveries from Sac's Place in Astoria today.
They have really good pizza.

Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Ben Kallos reports:
... Temporary Jobs:

Want to help get our city shoveled out and get paid for doing it? Consider assisting the Department of Sanitation with snow removal. Pay is $10 per hour and increases to $15 per hour after 40 hours. Be advised, the Department of Sanitation will only accept those who arrive between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday, February 14. Call 311 for garage location information. Please visit the Department of Sanitation website for requirements.

Volunteer:

If you would like to assist homebound seniors in the district or help shovel for a neighbor, please contact my office...
Contact Mr. Kallos here or at 212-860-1950.

UPDATE 5:45 PM - From RIOC:
Notification issued 1/26/2015 at 5:07 PM. At this time, the Tram is running on schedule. The Red Bus is operating with delays. The MTA has not reported any change in F train service to Roosevelt Island but service will be limited after 7 PM tonight (MTA.info). If weather conditions deteriorate, Tram and/or Red Bus service will be suspended until further notice.

Roosevelt Island will follow Governor Cuomo's directive for travel during the storm by limiting vehicular traffic on Main Street to all but emergency vehicle travel at 11 PM Monday night until further notice. Only vehicles related to emergency services, vital city services and delivery of vital supplies will be permitted on Main Street until the order is lifted. Please do not walk or venture outside once the worst of the storm hits this evening.

RIOC will periodically issue updates via RIOC Advisories during this storm. In the event of an emergency, please call 911. For local assistance, call Public Safety at 212-832-4545.
Gristedes hopes to stay open until 9 or 10 PM tonight and will be open tomorrow.

Duane Reade will close 8 PM tonight and be open tomorrow.

Wholesome Factory will be open until 11:30 PM tonight and be open tomorrow. Lines at Wholesome Factory


were long this evening.

Riverwalk Bar & Grill closed at 3 PM this afternoon


and will be closed tomorrow as well.

UPDATE 6 PM - From RIOC:
Notification 1/26/2015 at 6:00pm Due to inclement weather the Roosevelt Island tram will be operating one cabin. Please expect delays.

At 11:00pm the Roosevelt Island Tram will suspend service until further notice.
UPDATE 1/27 9:50 AM:
According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Notification issued 1/27/2015 at 9:15 AM. As of 9:00 AM, Red Bus and Tram service has been restored and are scheduled to run every 15 minutes.

The MTA has advised that all subway and bus service is being gradually restored and will run on a Sunday schedule until further notice. Service is extremely limited; expect extensive delays.

Please remain cautious; travel only when necessary and check in on your elderly and/or disabled neighbors.
Governor Cuomo announced this morning:
... MTA buses and subways will begin to resume this morning and by 12:00 p.m. will be operating on a Sunday schedule for the rest of the day and will resume normal service on Wednesday.

Roads and Bridges

The travel ban for all state and local roads has been lifted. Drivers should continue to use extreme caution and prepare properly as driving conditions remain poor and other states still may have travel bans in effect....
More here.

UPDATE 11:25 - From the NYPL:
The Roosevelt Island Library and all other branches of the New York Public Library will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, January 27.
UPDATE 7 PM - From RIOC:
Notification issued 1/27/15 at 3:40 PM. Following an earlier parking suspension on Main Street and the East and West roadways due to the winter snow storm, metered parking is now permitted on Main Street. All residents who have parked temporarily inside the Motorgate Garage can now move their vehicles back to street level.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

One Of The Largest Blizzards In NYC History Coming Tomorrow Says Mayor de Blasio - Stay Safe And Be Prepared Roosevelt Island

The NYC Twitterverse reports:


According to the National Weather Service:
...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM MONDAY TO MIDNIGHT EST TUESDAY NIGHT...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN NEW YORK HAS ISSUED A BLIZZARD WARNING...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM MONDAY TO MIDNIGHT EST TUESDAY NIGHT. THE BLIZZARD WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

* LOCATIONS...NEW YORK CITY AND SURROUNDING IMMEDIATE SUBURBS...LONG ISLAND...AND MOST OF SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT.

* HAZARD TYPES...HEAVY SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW...WITH BLIZZARD CONDITIONS.

* ACCUMULATIONS...SNOW ACCUMULATION OF 20 TO 30 INCHES...WITH LOCALLY HIGHER AMOUNTS POSSIBLE. SNOWFALL RATES OF 2 TO 4 INCHES PER HOUR EXPECTED LATE MONDAY NIGHT INTO TUESDAY MORNING.

* WINDS...NORTH 30 TO 40 MPH WITH GUSTS 55 TO 65 MPH...STRONGEST ACROSS EASTERN LONG ISLAND.

* VISIBILITIES...ONE QUARTER MILE OR LESS AT TIMES.

* TEMPERATURES...IN THE LOWER 20S.

* TIMING...LIGHT SNOW WILL BEGIN MONDAY MORNING...WITH ACCUMULATIONS OF 1 TO 3 INCHES POSSIBLE BY THE EVENING RUSH. SNOW WILL PICK UP IN INTENSITY MONDAY EVENING...WITH THE HEAVIEST SNOW AND STRONGEST WINDS FROM ABOUT MIDNIGHT MONDAY NIGHT INTO TUESDAY AFTERNOON.

* IMPACTS...LIFE-THREATENING CONDITIONS AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TRAVEL DUE TO HEAVY SNOWFALL AND STRONG WINDS...WITH WHITEOUT CONDITIONS. SECONDARY AND TERTIARY ROADS MAY BECOME IMPASSABLE. STRONG WINDS MAY DOWN POWER LINES AND TREE LIMBS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A BLIZZARD WARNING MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. FALLING AND BLOWING SNOW WITH STRONG WINDS AND POOR VISIBILITIES WILL LEAD TO WHITEOUT CONDITIONS...MAKING TRAVEL EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. DO NOT TRAVEL. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL...HAVE A WINTER SURVIVAL KIT WITH YOU. IF YOU GET STRANDED...STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE.

ALL UNNECESSARY TRAVEL IS DISCOURAGED BEGINNING MONDAY AFTERNOON...TO ALLOW PEOPLE ALREADY ON THE ROAD TO SAFELY REACH THEIR DESTINATIONS BEFORE THE HEAVY SNOW BEGINS...AND TO ALLOW SNOW REMOVAL EQUIPMENT TO BEGIN TO CLEAR ROADS.
News of the impending snowstorm will not stop a new Roosevelt Island resident from trying to move in.
Hopefully, the move will be finished early before the snow starts.

Stay safe everybody and be careful.

Friday, December 31, 2010

Roosevelt Island Youth Program Open For Kids During Blizzard - Neither Snow, Nor Rain Etc. Keeps the RIYP From Serving Roosevelt Island Youth

 Image Of Roosevelt Island Blizzard From Olya Turcihin

Despite the blizzard earlier this week, the Roosevelt Island Youth Program was up and running serving the kids of Roosevelt Island. From the Roosevelt Island Youth Program:
Snow Can’t Stop Youth Program

On Sunday night December 26th, 2010 New York City was hit with a major blizzard keeping many businesses closed on a major shopping day, trains stalled, airports closed, even our postal system ground to a halt. While the City tried to dig us out and uncertainty was all around us, one thing remained consistent, the Roosevelt Island Youth Program was open for business at our New York City funded Beacon Program at PS/IS 217. We served breakfast at 8AM with lunch and a mid-day snack to over 60 youth until 6PM that day. With the United States Postal Service failing to deliver on their long standing motto we think after 30 years of not closing due to weather, blackouts or any other major event we can proudly state that the Roosevelt Island Youth Program guaranteed that “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds".
 Image Of Roosevelt Island Youth Program Serving Kids During Blizzard From RIYP

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Day After 2010 Christmas Blizzard Clean Up Goes Very Well For Roosevelt Island - Not So Good For New York City Outer Borough Side Streets

Image of Plowed Roosevelt Island Main Street From Olya Turcihin

Looks like the outer boroughs of New York City have had a much more difficult time cleaning up from the Day After 2010 Christmas Blizzard than has Roosevelt Island.
Image Of Plowed Roosevelt Island Main Street From Olya Turcihin

According to Jane, a reader of post on how Roosevelt Island handled the Blizzard:
I've been to Manhattan and Queens in the aftermath of this storm. In a city where apparently large stretches of Queens Blvd are characterized as a "side street" (a.k.a. in desperate need of a plow on Tuesday AM) and the snowbanks at main crosswalks in Manhattan are 2-3 ft high, I'm very grateful to have started my trek at RI. Really impressed with how safe and clear the streets and sidewalks have been. I know it took a lot of people working really hard in tough conditions to make that happen. Thank you all!
Roosevelt Island Historical Society President Judy Berdy also commented:
After trekking to the subway in Manhattan, I was glad to be in the
land of civilized snow removal. At 11a.m. Monday, the MTA had cleaned all the snow from around the RI Subway station. That was a first and most appreciated. This afternoon everything was passable and it was great to be home where snow is still fun. Hope the kids have fun making snowmen in the parks!

Thanks to all our bousing staffs,
RIOC an everyone who does the real work!!
More Roosevelt Island images of the blizzard from Ms Turcihin below.









UPDATE 11:55 PM - Take a look at these reports showing how neighborhoods such as Ditmas Park and Sheepshead Bay are still waiting for the blizzard clean up of snow to reach them as well as this video of the blizzard's aftermath in Ditmas Park:


You Tube Video from Brenda From Flatbush