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 Waterfront Restaurant Taking Shape, Riverwalk Bar & Grill Bringing In John Brown Smokehouse BBQ and Um Segredo Chef David Santos - Community Board 8 Reviewing Liquor License Tonight

You Tube Video of NYC Waterfront Skyline at Night

Last April, I asked:

... Will East River waterfront dining be coming to Roosevelt Island's Subway Pier this summer? Imagine being able to sit, relax and eat some good food right next to the East River with these stunning NYC Skyline, Waterfront and Queensboro Bridge views in the evening...

Good News - turns out the answer to that question is YES, at least for this summer season and on an experimental basis to see how it works out. As previously reported, following a Request For Proposal, the  Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) awarded the right to operate a temporary waterfront food concession at the Subway Pier to the owners of our local Riverwalk Bar & Grill.

Riverwalk Bar & Grill Co-owner Salvatore Hoo shares some preliminary plans for Roosevelt Island's new waterfront restaurant:

We opened Riverwalk Bar and Grill almost 3 years ago and took a risk on Roosevelt Island that few were willing to take.  From the first time we stepped foot here we thought that the West Promenade was a unique space with a beautiful view.   Living here and doing business here since 2009,  we have realized that although unique, the space itself is very run down and underused. The metal gates are rusted and the paint was coming away in many spots. The wood railing had lost the luster it most certainly once had, covered in bird droppings as well as the marble ledge and floor of the space.

We thought it would be a great idea to use the space as a waterfront cafe and call it The Pier NYC, serving great food and summery drinks. We are working in collaboration with John Brown Smokehouse and Chef David Santos formerly of PerSe and Bouley to give the residents of the island new food options that they have been desiring. Earlier this year, John Brown Smokehouse was named best brisket in NYC and we will bring that along with other great BBQ menu items. Chef David Santos will bring his expertise of seafood to The Pier NYC and we will be serving items such as raw oysters, shrimp cocktail and lobster rolls. The exact menu is not yet set in stone, but these are the types of things residents can expect from us in this new venture. Being a resident myself I know this can be a great addition and look forward to further serving Roosevelt Island.

Wow - I am certainly looking forward to BBQ from Long Island City's John Brown Smokehouse. I've been there several times over the last few months and the food is GREAT.

You Tube Video of John Brown Smokehouse

Equally exciting is the participation of Chef David Santos who, in addition to experience at Per Se and Bouley, has been holding extraordinary well reviewed Um Segredo private dinners in his Roosevelt Island apartment.

Here's what the subway pier space looks like in the daytime.

You Tube Video of Walk Around The Subway Pier

Certainly looking forward very much to the opening. I hope the Wi-Fi extends to the Pier. 

Later tonight, Community Board 8 will be reviewing a liquor license application for Roosevelt Island's subway pier waterfront restaurant:

h. Roosevelt Island Hospitality Group, LLC d/b/a Pier NYC, West Promenade Pier, Roosevelt Island - New application for an liquor, wine and beer (on-premises) liquor license

Below is a location map for the Subway Pier Area from Appendix A of the RFP

According to a RIOC spokesperson, the only other submission responding to the RFP for the Roosevelt Island Subway Pier Waterfront Food Concession other than the Riverwalk Bar & Grill was:

The second bidder for the West Promenade Waterfront Food concession was D/G Partners and its request was disqualified out of hand for failing to meet the RFP requirements.  If you would like further information concerning the RFP, please submit a FOIL request.

RIOC's original RFP for the waterfront food concession prohibited any alcohol and seating was limited to 30 all within the designated Area 1. That is not now the case. There will be alcohol served, seating for more than 30 (I was told 60 but that is unconfirmed) and tables outside Area 1 on the Boardwalk area 2. Picture below of subway pier south side with chairs and tables from yesterday is for illustrative purposes only and not necessarily how the area will be set up.

 In a reply to this question submitted to the RFP,:

Question and Answer 2 states that no alcohol will be permitted or sold on the site. Question and Answer 6 states that seating is limited to 30 patrons. However, question and answer 11 states that alternative operational plans or elements will be considered.

RIOC provides an explanation for the discrepancy:

The specifications per the RFP are clearly stated that there will be no alcohol and the seating is up to 30 seats. However, the prospective bidder may, in addition to submitting a bid per the specifications in the RFP, submit an alternative operational with changed elements as part of their proposal. This does not mean that the alternative will be approved. The seating is limited to area 1. Area 2 is open to the public.

Whatever difficulties and problems involved in the issuance of this RFP, it will be wonderful to have a waterfront restaurant at the Roosevelt Island subway pier and the plans announced by Mr. Hoo sound terrific.

RIOC Directors and staff have said if all goes well and the community likes this use of public space, RIOC will issue another RFP for the location next year.

UPDATE 6:40 PM - Riverwalk Bar & Grill co-owner Jonathan Hoo adds that chef Alyssa Gangeri of Ally Cakes:

will also be creating new desserts especially for Pier NYC. The menu should be similar to what is attached.

RIOC Issues RFP For Assistance In Negotiating Ground Lease Extensions For Several Roosevelt Island Buildings - Who's Interested?

Image From Lawton Group

Reported previously on Mitchell Lama privatization/affordability plan and ground lease extension issues for Roosevelt Island Rivercross, Island House and Westview buildings.

Last April 25, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Real Estate Committee met in Executive Session to discuss Island House issues as well as ground lease modification for the yet to be built Southtown Buildings 7-9 by Hudson Related.

On May 8, RIOC issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) seeking a real estate consultant to assist in negotiating ground lease agreements for several building. According to the RFP:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (“RIOC”), a NYS Public Benefit Corporation, was established to develop and maintain the 147 acre Roosevelt Island located between Manhattan and Queens along the East River. The Island was leased from the City of New York by RIOC under a 99 year lease terminating in 2068. RIOC seeks to engage a real estate consultant to assist in the negotiation of ground lease extensions for several island buildings....

... The contract will be for a one year with an option for RIOC to renew for an additional two years...

The due date for submissions to the RFP for interested real estate firms is May 29. Full RFP is here.

In December 2009, the RIOC Board had previously approved the hiring of Jones Lang LaSalle to advise RIOC on Rivercross, Island House and Westview negotiations. Who will be next, Jones Lang again or someone else?

Roosevelt Island Subway Pier Waterfront Promenade Food Concession Q & A - 30 Seats, No Alcohol, Boardwalk and Pathway Area Open To Public, Maybe

You Tube Video of Walk Around The Subway Pier

Reported last week that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued a Request For Proposals to operate a West Promenade Subway Pier Food Concession pilot project for this summer

... Imagine being able to sit, relax and eat some good food right next to the East River with these stunning NYC Skyline, Waterfront and Queensboro Bridge views in the evening...

Here are questions submitted by potential bidders and answers provided by RIOC.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the duration of the project?

This is a pilot beginning May 15, 2012 through October 15, 2012. The term of the project will be for one year.

2. Will alcoholic beverages be allowed on site?

No alcoholic beverages are permitted or allowed to be sold on the site.

3. What are the hours of operation?

The hours of operation are from 11 am through 9 pm as stated in the RFP; proposers should clearly designate their intended hours of operation within these hours in their proposal.

4. Will advertising be allowed?

The display of third-party advertisements on signage or menus will not be allowed. Signage to promote the saleable items will be allowed.

5. What format should the bid be presented in?

All proposals should be typed and presented on your company letterhead.

6. What is the allowed seating capacity?

The seating capacity on the intended site of operations (Area 1) as laid out in the site plan included in the RFP is for up to 30 patrons.

7. What is the maximum boundary that the vendor will be held responsible for cleaning and maintaining?

The vendor will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining Area’s 1 and 2 as laid out in the site plan included in the RFP, as well as removal of any refuse generated by customers in the area immediately adjacent to these areas.

8. Is the space delivered as is or will RIOC clean the area?

The space will be power-washed prior to the selected vendor beginning services. Graffiti removal will not be included.

9. Is Area 2 as laid out in the site plan included in the space to be leased to the vendor?

Only Area 1 will be leased to the vendor for the term of the project.

10. Is water or electrical supply available?

There is no water supply in the area; the successful proposer will have to provide their own. As indicated in the RFP, limited electrical supply is available at a rate of $500 per month to be added to the fees owed to RIOC for operating the venture.

11. Can we submit alternate proposals?

Alternative operational plans or elements will be considered. Please clearly identify any such alternatives within the proposal.

12. Can bathrooms be located away from the area?

If a location adjacent to Area 1 or 2 for the ADA compliant portable bathrooms is included in the proposal it will be considered, if an alternate location is it must be approved by RIOC.

13. Will smoking be allowed in the area?

There is no smoking allowed in the area licensed to the vendor.

14. Why is menu pricing subject to RIOC approval?

RIOC will require menu pricing to be maintained at the quoted price during the term of the project. Therefore, the proposed pricing must be recorded. Any proposed changes during the term of the license will be subject to RIOC approval.

15. Will RIOC reimburse expenses for costs incurred in preparation of proposals?

As with all other RFP’s, RIOC will not reimburse any expenses incurred in connection with this project for preparation of proposals.

Additional Questions and Answers 4/25/2012

1. Question and Answer 2 states that no alcohol will be permitted or sold on the site. Question and Answer 6 states that seating is limited to 30 patrons. However, question and answer 11 states that alternative operational plans or elements will be considered.

The specifications per the RFP are clearly stated that there will be no alcohol and the seating is up to 30 seats. However, the prospective bidder may, in addition to submitting a bid per the specifications in the RFP, submit an alternative operational with changed elements as part of their proposal. This does not mean that the alternative will be approved. The seating is limited to area 1. Area 2 is open to the public.

2. Area 1 is the vending area. Area 2 is an area that you can not vend in but are responsible for cleaning? Is this correct?

This is correct. You are responsible for cleaning Area 1 and 2, as well as any refuse generated by customers in the area immediately adjacent to these areas.

3. Area 1 is the designated area licensed to the vendor and there is no smoking. Is smoking allowed in area 2?

Smoking will be allowed in Area 2, and any area outside the area licensed to the vendor.

4. Does RIOC consider the total square footage for this project solely the 2272.92 sq. ft in Area 1 or is it the square footage for Area 1 + Area 2 (4143.25 sq. ft)?

The total square footage to be licensed to the vendor (“the project area”) is the 2272.92 square feet identified as Area 1.

5. Can you please define the differences between "term of the project" vs "duration of the project" as mentioned in question #1

There is no difference between the “term of the project” and “duration of the project”. The term/duration of the project will be May 15th through October 15th as specified in the RFP.

Below is a location map for the Subway Pier Area from Appendix A of the RFP

Roosevelt Island's Version Of The River Cafe May Be Coming To Subway Pier This Summer - Dining Under The Queensboro Bridge Instead Of Brooklyn Bridge With Fantastic NYC East River Waterfront Views

NYC East River Waterfront View At Night From Roosevelt Island Subway Pier

Will East River waterfront dining be coming to Roosevelt Island's Subway Pier this summer? Imagine being able to sit, relax and eat some good food right next to the East River with these stunning NYC Skyline, Waterfront and Queensboro Bridge views in the evening


You Tube Video of NYC Waterfront Skyline at Night

and during the day.



Well, that may actually happen this summer because the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) has issued a Request For Proposals:

... for the sale of high quality food items on the west promenade of Roosevelt Island. The designated location will be licensed to one successful proposer....

... the aforementioned concession services for one (1) season from May 15, 2012 through October 15, 2012. Due to the pilot nature of this project, a longer term will not be considered at this time...

... RIOC envisions a quality, affordable specialty concession service that gives patrons a place to stop and enjoy the scenery, while enjoying top quality food. RIOC will view favorably menus that are inventive and interesting, and that incorporate diverse and/or healthy food choices. Menu items may include, but are not limited to, gourmet food products, barbeque, premium coffees and teas, muffins, rolls, bagels, premium cookies, international and ethnic foods, soups, fruit, spring water, juices and gelato. Proposers should submit a menu with their proposals and should include some low-cost food items on their menus. Proposals should include a price list for each item to be sold.

Any and all items sold and prices are subject to RIOC’s prior written approval. The selling and/or advertisement of cigarettes, cigars, any other tobacco products, or alcohol is strictly prohibited. The successful proposer will be required to adhere to and enforce this policy....

... A mandatory pre-bid site visit will be held on April 17, 2012 at 1:00 PM. A brief meeting for will take place at 591 Main Street at the appointed time, a walkthrough of the site will follow....

Click here for the entire RIOC RFP for the Operation of a Waterfront Food Concession on the West Promenade of Roosevelt Island. Below is a location map for the Subway Pier Area from Appendix A of the RFP

Here's a view from above the Subway Pier.

Wouldn't that be great!

Do You Want To Work For RIOC? Communications and Media Services Sought For Roosevelt Island Operating Corp - Insurance Brokerage and Electric Car Request For Proposals Issued Too

 Image From RIOC

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) is looking for communications and marketing assistance services. According to a Request For Proposals released on July 4, 2011:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation ("RIOC" or “Owner”) is seeking to retain professional communications and marketing services for the purposes of informing and updating current residents on organization-sponsored projects and programs and other Island events and promoting the Island to visitors, businesses and prospective residents....

... Scope of Work
1. Manage the development and execution of an annual plan, including ongoing communications, crisis communications, media and public relations
2. Respond to media inquiries, identify opportunities and generate earned media profiling the Island to increase in interest residential, opportunities for businesses and tourism
2. Write and edit biweekly column for local community paper, create an editorial calendar for columns, work with staff to develop timely and relevant content
3. Assist in the development of a quarterly newsletter, including developing article ideas, writing, editing, and working with designer on layout
4. Assist in generating event ideas to attract tourism
5. Assist the development of RIOC’s social media presence
6. Create communications and stimulate media interest around new initiatives or programs
7. Assist in the development of an annual report, including developing a theme, generating content ideas, editing and working with designer on layout
8. Act as liaison to NYC and Co. to help build knowledge of and tourism for Roosevelt Island
The selected Consultant must be available to attend weekly on-site meetings and may be occasionally called upon to assist with outreach to government agencies and community based organizations, including attending meetings and editing correspondences.

Term of Service:
RIOC seeks to engage a communications and marketing Consultant for a one-year term with a 30-day cancellation provision by either party. The contract term is from August 1, 2011 through July 31, 2012....

... There will not be a pre-bid conference for this RFP. Questions about the RFP should be directed to Erica Wilder, Community Relations Specialist,...

The question period ends July 18, proposals are due 3 PM July 25 and the award notification will be on July 29, 2011.

Other current RIOC RFP's outstanding include a call for insurance brokerage services and Global Electric Motorcar Vehicles.

According to the Insurance Brokerage RFP:

... For the year ended March 31, 2011, the audit financial statement showed total capital assets as follows:

Seawall $ 2,897,836

Buildings 13,221,428

Land Improvements 6,324,364

Machinery and Equipment 3,621,793

Infrastructure 40,330,278

Total Capital Assets 66,395,699

RIOC employs 103 full time employees and 15 part time employees.

Section of Operations:

Bus Operations: Consisting of seven Orion Hybrid-Electrical Low Floor Buses which provides transportation Island wide. 

Parks and Recreations: To promote the usage of Sports Park Facilities for evens such as Basketball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Indoor Soccer and other events. Provide permits for events such as filming, athletic field usage, and other functions.

Grounds and Maintenance: Is responsible to maintain all outdoor spaces, to include athletic field preparation, landscaping, and parks area. To provide daily maintenance to the island infrastructure, (roads, building, seawall) 

Public Safety Department: Consisting of 41 Peace Officers, unarmed, who provides a safe and secure environment for the residents, employees, business owners, community and visitors of Roosevelt Island. Protect the property and interest of the Corporation and the Housing Companies and Corporations. 

Tramway: Aerial Tramway provides transportation from Roosevelt Island to East 60th street In Manhattan. Operates on two independently powered cars shuttling back and forth across the East River, carrying 109 passengers at a time and 2 million people annually generating approximately $4,200.000. in revenue annually.
 
Administration Department: Consisting of 42 full time and 7 part time employees....