Roosevelt Island Residents Concerned Large Number Of Visitors Not Social Distancing Or Wearing Face Coverings While Riding Tram And Enjoying Playgrounds - RIOC Says They Are Monitoring Parks, Tram And Facilities To Make Sure Covid Safety Protocols Being Followed, Adding Manhattan Red Bus Shuttle This Weekend Too

Last Tuesday, March 30, was a beautiful spring day bringing many visitors and large groups to Roosevelt Island.  On Wednesday, March 31, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes:

For years, during the Passover Holiday, large numbers of visitors come to Roosevelt Island. 

Yesterday large groups of people were visiting Roosevelt Island dangerously overcrowding the Tram, Ferry and playgrounds, not social distancing or wearing face coverings according to many residents who expressed their great concerns over the potential health and safety risks this might cause during the current Covid Pandemic.... 

... Any statement from RIOC about the overcrowded conditions and lack of social distancing/face coverings on Roosevelt Island yesterday and any plans by RIOC to monitor similar incidents in the future.

RIOC Public Information Officer Amy Smith replied:

We appreciate your email and resident concern regarding the overcrowding that took place yesterday. While our Public Safety Department (PSD) fully prepared and staffed for this anticipated influx of visitors, there was little to no increase in visitor traffic to and from the island Saturday through Monday, resulting in a reduction of officer presence. We have since reestablished presence in all areas including tram access points on both the Manhattan and Roosevelt Island sides, are monitoring parks and facilities, and enforcing COVID-19 safety protocols.

RIOC President Shelton Haynes posted on Instagram ysterday:

Today alone, our Public Safety Department (PSD) distributed over 250 masks to Tram patrons and over 100 masks to those enjoying Blackwell House Park. Further, additional officers have been posted at Firefighter’s Field and Tram plazas on both Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shelton Haynes RIOC CEO (@shelton_haynes_rioc_ceo)

Also, RIOC announced Manhattan Red Bus Shuttle service for Thursday and Friday. Ms Smith explained the addition of Manhattan Red Bus Shuttle is:

... to help mitigate crowds that may form from the influx of people enjoying Roosevelt Island.

Today, I asked RIOC:

Will the red bus shuttle to Manhattan run this weekend

Shortly afterwards RIOC announced:

Please be advised that, the Red Bus shuttle service to and from Manhattan, from 3 PM – 8:30 PM, has been extended to Sunday, April 4th. Please see the schedule below:  

Roosevelt Island to Manhattan:  

The Red Bus shuttle will depart from the Tram Plaza starting at 3 PM, continuing hourly, and making all local stops northbound on Main Street to the Roosevelt Island Bridge. The shuttle will take passengers to Second Avenue between 58th and 59th Streets.  

Manhattan to Roosevelt Island:  

The Manhattan Red Bus shuttle will depart Manhattan, between 58th and 59th Streets on the west side of Second Avenue, every half hour, taking passengers to Roosevelt Island Tram Plaza. The last available trip from Manhattan is 8:30 PM on both days.

The weather this weekend is expected to be nice and sunny. Expect more crowds.

Many more visitors will be coming to Roosevelt Island when the Cherry Blossoms start to bloom.

Roosevelt Island Transportation This Weekend - Subway, Tram, Ferry & Citibike - Keep Your Social Distance And Wear Face Covering - MTA Has New Real Time Subway Data Map Too

According to the MTA: 

TUNNEL REHABILITATION 

Oct 30 - Nov 2, Fri 9:45 PM to Mon 1 AM F Trains are replaced by the E between 21 St-Queensbridge and Delancey St/Essex St

You asked, we listened. Now, planning your travel ahead of time is easier than ever with our new Live Subway Map.

Check upcoming outages, planned work, and service changes with just a few clicks.

Check it out.

— MTA. Wear a Mask. Stop the Spread. (@MTA) October 28, 2020

Just a reminder that masks are required when you travel with us.

If you don't have a mask, stop by a @NYCTSubway station booth or ask an @LIRR or @MetroNorth station ambassador for a free one.

Starting today, customers who refuse to wear a mask could receive a $50 fine. pic.twitter.com/phjVA9kv4z

— MTA. Wear a Mask. Stop the Spread. (@MTA) September 14, 2020

There is a Roosevelt Island Tram Cabin 20 passenger Covid-19 Social Distancing limit.

 The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) was recently asked by a resident: 

There has been a lot of complaints again about terrible tram congestion and waiting times at weekends, with one resident saying that she waited an hour to get back from Manhattan in the tram queue. 

Can you look into the issue again and consider solutions such as a red bus service on weekends for tourists and retaining the tram for residents during this period ? 

The Red Bus Shuttle to Manhattan is hardly used during the week but really necessary at the weekend when limits on numbers inside each tram, alongside visitors, makes using it impossible 

RIOC spokesperson Jessica Cerrone replied:

Thank you for your feedback. We have notified the Transportation Director about this issue, however, we are not considering priority access to the Tram for residents.

Here's the NYC Ferry Roosevelt Island Astoria Route Schedule which now extends to East 90th street on the Upper East Side.  

NYC Ferry Winter Schedule goes into effect Monday, November 2, 2020. Please preview schedules and plan your commute accordingly: https://t.co/0Oohu3gizU #NYCFerry pic.twitter.com/fMr2VR3Y41

— NYC Ferry (@NYCferry) October 26, 2020

Also, Roosevelt Island has a new transportation option with the recent addition of Citbike docking stations.  

UPDATE 7:15 - RIOC adds: 

While we continue to follow social distancing and align our operations with New York Forward guidance, we also continue to incrementally increase the number of passengers permitted on the Tram. Tram capacity will increase on Sunday, November 1st, from 20 to 35 passengers per cabin, and we will continue to assess and gradually increase in phases. 

We understand the need for this mode of transportation, however, the health and safety of our riders and operators are our priority. We appreciate your cooperation.

Roosevelt Island Labor Day Weekend Guidance From RIOC - Wear Face Coverings, Maintain Social Distancing, Transportation Options, Playgrounds, Fields, Basketball, Soccer & Cooking Grills Open, Avoid Congregating In Large Groups, PSD Will Be Patrolling Island

As Labor Day weekend approaches, remember COVID won’t take a holiday.

Wear a mask. Be smart. Plan well.

Let's look out for one another.

— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) September 3, 2020

Have a safe Labor Day weekend, New York City!

😷 Wear your face mask
🚰 Wash your hands
🙂 ↔️ 🙂 Six feet apart pic.twitter.com/mB2DI0qPWC

— City of New York (@nycgov) September 4, 2020

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

As we continue in Phase 4 of New York Forward, we urge all residents and visitors to follow social distancing protocols to reduce the transmission of the virus. Kindly continue to wear face masks/coverings, avoid large in-person gatherings in excess of the social gathering restrictions that are currently in effect, and take the additional necessary precautions to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission, which is consistent with the guidance of Governor Cuomo’s Executive Orders.

Below is an update on weekend transportation changes, openings, and closures of RIOC-controlled facilities:

Transportation:

Tram - Will run on a weekday schedule with both Trams operating and adhering to social distancing with 20 passengers per Tram cabin. There will be no Tram Shuttle Bus. See schedule info at: rioc.ny.gov/302

Red Bus - Will run on weekday schedule. There will be no Octagon express bus. See schedule at rioc.ny.gov/368

MTA Service – All New York City buses are resumed requiring payment as of August 31st, 2020. For info, go to new.mta.info

NYC Ferry Service - Go to ferry.nyc

Open Areas:

Comfort Stations at Lighthouse Park and Southpoint Park
Outdoor Tennis Courts – reservation system here.
All public playgrounds
All Fields are open
Basketball hoops and soccer goals are available for use
All public cooking areas (grills)

New York City is currently in Phase 4 of New York Forward. For more information on sports and New York Forward, please click here.

RIOC asks that all park goers take extra precautions to stay healthy and safe and keep adhering to social distancing and mask/face covering guidelines. Please maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others when outside and avoid congregating in large groups. For more information, please click here

Closed Areas:

Sportspark

In addition, the Public Safety Department (PSD) will be patrolling the island, with extra patrols focusing on recreation and transportation areas. PSD officers will be handing out masks at outdoor locations.

Have a safe and healthy holiday weekend.

RIOC Responds To Overcrowding And Lack Of Social Distancing On Roosevelt Island Tram This Past Weekend - RIOC Acting President Shelton Haynes Apologizes Today And Says PSD Officers Will Be At Each Station Queuing Riders And Ensuring Safety Measures

Reported last Saturday on very crowded Roosevelt Island Tram cabins:

Tram operator has discretion to allow more than 13 passenger social distance capacity limit but this seems too many people. Mostly visitors.

The RI Public safety department needs to do a better job of enforcing social distance, on crowded transports @RIOCny https://t.co/kKqeytaY0P

— Nidhi Srinivas (@NidhiSrinivas_) August 16, 2020

@SenatorSerrano @NYGovCuomo @NYCMayor This is unsafe and unacceptable! Needs to be enforced ASAP. I’ve called @RIOCny several times and they have ignored all resident calls in regards to this.

— FinnYorker (@NYTTYTTYY) August 16, 2020

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Acting President Shelton Haynes agrees that the overcrowding and lack of social distancing on Tram is not acceptable. Today, Mr Haynes reports:

I was very disappointed when I viewed the video of the crowded Tram cabin yesterday. RIOC has taken extreme measures throughout the course of the pandemic to ensure the general public and our employees are informed with digital and physical signage of safety protocols. We placed emphasis on wearing masks, using floor decals, and placing a limit on the number of passengers who board the Tram. We have also had success implementing social distancing protocols at the Tennis courts, Sportspark Pool, Youth Center, Farmers Market, and other RIOC operated spaces.

We apologize for any breakdown of these safety protocols at the Tram. After this was brought to our attention over the weekend, I asked our AVP of Operations, Altheria Jackson, and Public Safety Chief, Kevin Brown to review all Tram safety operations. They toured the Tram stations early Sunday morning to address this critical matter.

Going forward, RIOC PSD will be present at both Tram stations in order to facilitate adherence to all safety guidelines. An officer will be posted at each station

queuing travelers,

ensuring that all passengers follow the Tram cabin limit,

and that masks are being worn. We are scheduled to meet with Leitner-POMA, operators of the Tram, to discuss the matter further. RIOC will communicate any additional changes that may come from the meeting.

What Happened To Social Distancing On Roosevelt Island Tram? Way Too Crowded Cabin Today, Irresponsible And Dangerous Say Residents - Give Priority Tram Access To Residents And Workers Suggested

AS previously reported, according to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Tram Passenger Limits

As the region begins to reopen and more people return to work, the tram will have more riders. The tram operator has the discretion to allow an increase in the stated thirteen passenger limit based on conditions at a given time. If you feel a tram car is too crowded, we encourage you to wait for the next one. If you see an unsafe condition, please notify a the tram operator or a Public Safety Officer or call PSD directly at 212-832-4545.

Yesterday afternoon, passengers were maintaining social distance while waiting for the Tram at the Roosevelt Island station.

View this post on Instagram

Wear your face mask on Roosevelt Island Tram. 13 Rider passenger limit on Tram but Operator has discretion to allow more.

A post shared by @ rooseveltislander on Aug 14, 2020 at 1:31pm PDT

But today:

Crowded Roosevelt Island Tran cabin this afternoon. Tram operator has discretion to allow more than 13 passenger social distance capacity limit but this seems too many people. Mostly visitors.

View this post on Instagram

Crowded Roosevelt Island Tran cabin this afternoon. Tram operator has discretion to allow more than 13 passenger social distance capacity limit but this seems too many people. Mostly visitors.

A post shared by @ rooseveltislander on Aug 15, 2020 at 11:51am PDT

Comments from Roosevelt Island residents:

• Way to many !
• That’s not good
• so upsetting. i can’t believe this is allowed.
• Anecdotally, mask wearing here is worse than in Manhattan. People come here on the tram and immediately remove their masks. We don’t do that when we do essential errands in Manhattan. (I do think residents here wear masks at a much higher rate.)
• Seems unsafe.
• This is irresponsible and dangerous! Not acceptable!
• Perhaps giving residents a special lane would be advisable. Afford priority access to those who live and work here. Sort of a "Fast Pass" system.

UPDATE 8/17:

@B3NJITO @ieh_nyc I agree this is unacceptable-but since you pay with a metrocard, doesn't this fall under the enforcement of the @MTA as well? The responsibility also falls on the riders to. #rooseveltisland #Manhattan

— Jonn Nubian ® (@JonnNubian) August 16, 2020

I was there around 3pm and it was so bad I called the Public Safety to complain. I counted thirty getting on the tram to Manhattan.

— Nidhi Srinivas (@NidhiSrinivas_) August 16, 2020

Doesn't RIOC enforce the limits they themselves set?

— Rubén B. (@motxilo) August 16, 2020

I appreciate that everyone seems to be wearing a mask, but this is piss-poor leadership/management. WE NEED NEW LEADERSHIP on this Island.

— Love Not Hate (@ieh_nyc) August 16, 2020

Yikes - this is alarming footage!

— Chris Sosa (@ChrisSosa) August 16, 2020

RIOC Roosevelt Island Community Update - RIOC Apologizes For Confusion Over Capobianco And Pony Fields Status, Octagon Tennis Courts Open June 20, Southpoint Park Shoreline Project Moving Forward, New Home For Cat Sanctuary & More

Yellow do not enter warning tape at Roosevelt Island Capobianco Field pic.twitter.com/vNDgyYiuHe

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) June 10, 2020

Here's June 11 Community Update from Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)

Here is the latest update from New York State for June 11, 2020

Farmers Market This Saturday

The Farmers Market will resume this Saturday in Good Shepherd Plaza from 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Please observe all social distancing guidelines.

Note: there will be NO Food Scrap Drop Off collection. If you wish for the Compost Program to return, please follow @SaveNYCCompost on twitter for more information.

New York Forward – Phase 1

The NYC region is in Phase 1 of reopening. To keep track of the region’s progress, please visit the New York Forward website at: forward.ny.gov/reopening-new-york-city

Capobianco and Pony Fields are Open – but Maintain Social Distancing

Capobianco and Pony Fields are open to the public for exercise. No team sports are allowed and social distancing practices must be followed at all times. McManus Field and Firefighters Field will remain closed until further notice to discourage team sports. We apologize for any confusion on this subject.

Reopening RIOC: Tennis Courts

Our staff has worked with members of the community to create safe initiatives we will employ when we reopen Roosevelt Island’s tennis courts on Saturday, June 20th. We will be sharing more information about our procedures in the coming days.

Capital Projects – Southpoint Park Project Moves Forward

Read more »

Do You Have Questions About Roosevelt Island Coronavirus Reopening, Submit Your Written Questions To RIOC Board Operations Committee Prior To June 2 Meeting - They May Or May Not Be Addressed Adds RIOC

Reported last Friday:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors Operations Advisory Committee will meet next Tuesday, June 2, to discuss the Roosevelt Island Coronavirus reopening plan as well as active construction projects. The meeting will be conducted via videoconference and open to the public.

I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and the RIOC Directors:

Will the public be able to participate during the upcoming RIOC Board Committee meeting videoconferences as they do during in person meetingns?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

Public comments are not part of the agenda for either committee meeting. The public can always submit their comments for full board meetings on our website. http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43

RIOC changed it's tune today about public participation in the committee meeting, announcing:

• The Real Estate Development Advisory Committee will hold a virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at 4:30 PM.
• The Operations Advisory Committee will hold a virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at 5:30 PM.
• The RIOC Board of Directors will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 5:30 PM.

To watch the meetings from your computer or mobile device, please visit https://live.divacommunications.com/rioc-live/

To submit remarks to be read into the record of the RIOC Board Meeting, please visit: http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43

NOTE: Although there is no public comment period on the agendas of the June 2 committee meetings, the public is invited to submit questions if they wish. The questions may or may not be addressed by the committee chairs. Questions may be submitted by clicking here: http://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Meetings-4/Speakup-43

I'd like to know about opening the ball fields for socially distant recreation,

Great question for @RIOCny Astoria Park Field is open so people can walk around, get fresh air while maintaining social distance. Why not on Roosevelt Island? https://t.co/M2W5Q9LZQU

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 3, 2020

Cornell Tech has done a community service keeping the campus oval open for Socially Distant recreation by Roosevelt Island residents. ⁦@RIOCny⁩ could learn a lesson and open Roosevelt Island ball fields for same. pic.twitter.com/fmUIPHgAEz

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 30, 2020

plans for Roosevelt Island Tram usage,

Read more »

RIOC Roosevelt Island Community Update - Enjoy Outdoor Public Space During Memorial Day Weekend But Observe Social Distancing, Wear Mask When You Can't, Public BBQ Grill Will Be Removed, 13 Passenger Tram Limit, Mask & Hand Sanitizer Giveaway May 26, Saturday Farmers Market Open & More

Here's May 21 Community Update from Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)

Here is the latest update from New York State for May 21, 2020

Enjoying Memorial Day While On PAUSE

Memorial Day is a special time when we honor those who committed the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This year, as we continue to face the threat that COVID-19 poses to our community, let us also commit to doing everything we can to ensure we remain as safe as possible over the long holiday weekend.

When enjoying our many beautiful public spaces (the promenades along the East River, Lighthouse Park, Meditation Lawn, Meditation Steps, Good Shepherd Plaza, Blackwell Park, Riverwalk Commons, Southpoint Park and FDR Four Freedoms State Park), please remember to maintain social distancing whenever possible.

Wear a mask or face covering whenever you cannot maintain a safe distance of at least six feet from someone else.

Avoid gathering in groups of more than ten people. In order to discourage large gatherings, all public grills will be removed while NYC remains on PAUSE.

By working together, we can do our part to help make everyone safer. RIOC wishes all Roosevelt Island residents and their families a safe, happy and healthy Memorial Day weekend.

Tram Passenger Limits

In an effort to ensure social distancing and reduce spreading COVID-19, the Roosevelt Island Tram will be limited to a maximum of thirteen (13) passengers until further notice. POMA, the tram’s operator, has installed social distancing decals on the tram cabin to inform passengers how far away they should be standing from each other. Please note that the number of passengers may be changed in response to COVID-19 infection rates.

We ask all passengers to continue to wear masks or face coverings in public where social distancing cannot be practiced. The Tram remains closed from 1:00 AM until 6:00 AM to ensure that disinfecting measures can be performed on the cabins. Regular tram service resumes at 6:00 AM each day and continue until 1:00 AM the following morning.

Mask and Hand Sanitizer Giveaway from Mayor’s Office and Assemblymember Seawright

Everyone is invited to come to Good Shepherd Plaza on Tuesday, May 26th from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM to receive a free face mask from the Public Safety Department (courtesy of the NYC Mayor’s Office) and free hand sanitizer from Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright. Everyone will be required to observe social distancing procedures. A special thank you for Lynne Shinozaki, Joyce Short and Andrew Kunkes, Manhattan Borough Director of the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs.

PSD and RIOC also wish to thank the following people for their continued generosity in donating hand sanitizer and masks during the COVID-19 crisis:

NYS Senator Jose Serrano
Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright
Councilmember Ben Kallos

Farmers Market Resumes This Saturday

The Farmers Market will resume this Saturday in Good Shepherd Plaza from 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Please note the new start time. Click here for more information: rioc.ny.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=284.

Note: there will be NO Food Scrap Drop Off collection. If you wish for the Compost Program to return, please follow @SaveNYCCompost on twitter for more information.

NY Forward – Reopening NYC and Roosevelt Island

When will New York City reopen? The best place for information is the New York Forward Regional Monitoring Dashboard, which can be found by clicking here: forward.ny.gov/regional-monitoring-dashboard

As of this morning, the NYC region only meets 4 out of the 7 criteria to begin reopening. Please refer to the dashboard regularly for the very latest information.

Reopening RIOC

The region may still be closed due to COVID-19, but RIOC is already working with Governor Cuomo’s office on a plan to safely reopen our offices as soon as possible. Please watch future RIOC Advisories for the latest information on this effort.

Tikkit Helps RIOC Help You

Tikkit is not just the best way for the public to report a problem, it also helps RIOC do a better job. Every time you use Tikkit to report a problem, it is forwarded to the appropriate department for handling. That department is accountable for making sure the problem is addressed as soon as possible. This data helps give us a live picture of our strengths and weaknesses, which help us serve you better.

Tikkit is easy to use from your smartphone or computer and even allows you to attach a photo of the problem. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Click here to get started. rioc.tikkit.us/login

Motorgate Changes Coming in Early June

Due to ongoing Motorgate repair work, significant parking and traffic pattern changes will be coming to the north sections of 5B, 6B, 7B and 8B in early June 2020. Please keep an eye out for signs and obey posted speed limits.

NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio Doubling Open Streets For Pedestrians To Get Exercise While Practicing Social Distancing, RIOC Keeping Roosevelt Island McManus & Firefighters Field Closed And Surrounded By Yellow Tape, Says They Are Working On A Safety Plan

Closed Roosevelt Island McManus Field Surrounded By Yellow Tape From Tapan Parikh

Beginning Thursday we’ll DOUBLE our Open Streets with 12 more miles for New Yorkers to enjoy safely. I want to thank all of our local partners and local NYPD precincts for helping us ensure residents can get some exercise while still practicing social distancing. https://t.co/vx96TXR5l3

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) May 13, 2020

According to Mayor de Blasio today:

Now that warmer weather has arrived, New Yorkers will need more options to enjoy the outdoors at a safe, social distance,...

Earlier today, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Daily Update reported:

Ballfields and Playgrounds Remain Closed Until Further Notice

Although some state facilities around New York will begin opening over the coming days, we will continue to keep our ballfields and playgrounds closed in order to enforce social distancing practices regarding team sport activities. We are working on a safety plan to reopen some facilities. We will keep you informed of our progress in the coming days....

I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and the RIOC Board Directors about the ballfields remaining closed:

Does this mean that McManus and Firefighters Field will re-open for non team sports activities as long as individual maintain Social Distancing?

As you may know, Mayor de Blasio is opening NYC street for pedestrians to walk around outdoors. On Roosevelt Island, our park spaces and ball fields are the equivalent of NYC Open Streets. When will RIOC open Firefighters and McManus Field for social distancing use by the public?

FYI - here's story on subject from earlier this week.

Any comment from RIOC on when McManus and Firefighters Field will re-open and if not, why not?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

We are following the New York City and New York State Parks Departments directives regarding the opening of ballfields and playgrounds. We will keep the community informed of when our facilities will be re-opened to the public.

I followed up:

Read more »

RIOC Roosevelt Island Community Report - Farmers Market Opens This Saturday With Seniors/Disabled Special Hours, Contact PSD If You See Groups Not Social Distancing & Ask Susan About Face Coverings, PSD Bike Safety Enforcing, Coler Hospital

Here's May 12 Community Update from Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)

Farmers Market Resumes This Saturday

We are happy to report that the Farmers Market will resume this Saturday in Good Shepherd Plaza from 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Please click here for the revised set of operating rules.

Hey, Susan! Questions

Today we’d like to highlight two questions we’ve received from Roosevelt Island residents for President Rosenthal.

Question 1:

Please post a big sign: No bikes on sidewalks, No visitors, or runners without a mask. The governor thinks it is a lack of respect for other people’s lives.

Answer:

The Public Safety Department is charged with enforcing the rules about bicycles riding on the sidewalks. And although masks are strongly encouraged by Governor Cuomo, they are not mandatory as some individuals are unable to wear them for health reasons. Our PSD officers ask people who are not wearing masks to do so.

Question 2:

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Mom Observes Horrible Non Social Distancing And People Not Wearing Face Coverings At Lighthouse Park On Beautiful Day Yesterday, Asks For Solutions - NY State Senator Jose Serrano, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer & Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright Request Mayor de Blasio Schedule Face Covering Distribution For Roosevelt Island

Yesterday, Roosevelt Island NY State Senator Jose Serrano, who also represents areas in the Bronx and Manhattan, tweeted upcoming free NYC Coronavirus face covering distribution locations in his 29th District. But they did not include any location for Roosevelt Island.

I saw the police giving out masks by Cornell tech today

— ˗ˏˋA local tipster ˎˊ˗ (@iamjessklein) May 7, 2020

Today, Senator Serrano, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright sent this letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio requesting Roosevelt Island be included in the free face covering distribution. Here's the letter.

Read more »

Sunny Skies And Warm Saturday On Roosevelt Island Today Brought People Outdoors For Fresh Air And Relaxation - Were People Social Distancing And Wearing Face Coverings To Fight Coronavirus?

According to the NY Times today:

On the second day of May, New Yorkers were greeted with sunny skies and the warmest weekend so far this spring. People got up off their couch, put on their shoes, donned their face coverings, and left their cramped houses and apartments for the nearest park — desperate for fresh air and a little exercise....

What was Roosevelt Island like on this beautiful sunny Saturday. Were people social distancing and wearing face coverings? The Twitterverse reported:

Are people social distancing and wearing face coverings outside on Roosevelt Island this beautiful Saturday https://t.co/zUQwzD9VuD

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 2, 2020

Yikes. Just got back from a quick walk around #rooseveltisland and I counted 60 people WITHOUT masks that I could see. People were definitely not social distancing, hanging out with their friends. #newyorkers need to do better. For the greater good. #COVID__19 #SocialDistancing

— mrs (@itsElizaRo) May 2, 2020

With good weather there are way more tourists biking around. Today many were going very fast along the east promenade. Roosevelt Island is not prepared for this massive bike traffic and it's highly probable that one day a young kid will get seriously hurt. FYI @RIOCny @BenKallos

— Rubén B. (@motxilo) May 2, 2020

I walked up and down Roosevelt Island today from Lighthouse Park to FDR 4 Freedoms Park. My impression was the great majority of people were social distancing and wearing face coverings. Residents told me that the NY State Police were handing out face coverings at Southpoint Park to those not wearing face coverings.

It appeared that alot of visitors were enjoying Roosevelt Island's open space and parks today based upon the number of cars looking for parking spaces near the Cornell Tech campus and Citibike riders I saw. As the weather continues to get nicer, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp is going to have to come up with some plan for controlling the number of visitors to Roosevelt Island.

Heres are some scenes today from Lighthouse Park

At Roosevelt Island Lighthouse Park on beautiful day. People keeping social distance and wearing face coverings. pic.twitter.com/zf6DZpn9MI

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 2, 2020

FDR 4 Freedoms Park

Read more »

Roosevelt Island F Train Service To And From Manhattan This Weekend, E Train Too But No Subway Service At All From 1 To 5 AM Each Day So Trains Can Be Disinfected- Wear Mask On Tram, Red Bus & All Public Transportation, Stay Home Unless You're Providing An Essential Service Or An Emergency During Coronavirus Pandemic

We’re operating subway service for essential trips only. If you must travel, be sure to:

1⃣ Check https://t.co/tyvPdlXfha or MYmta to see how often your line is running.
2⃣ Wear a face covering.
3⃣ Allow extra time to get where you’re going.

If you need help, @ or DM us. 24/7. pic.twitter.com/1nH0QrKieX

— NYCT Subway. Stay Home. Stop the Spread. (@NYCTSubway) April 28, 2020

According to the MTA, there will be Roosevelt Island F Train service to and from Manhattan this weekend. E Train service too.

But NY State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced yesterday no system wide subway service from 1 to 5 AM every day.

This is an extraordinary effort and requires us all to work together.

This will be a joint MTA/State/City partnership.

I thank @NYCMayor for helping meet this challenge alongside us.

— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) April 30, 2020

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Red Buses will continue to run on a Weekend Schedule until further notice.

The Roosevelt Island Tramway will be closed from 1:00 AM until 6:00 AM to ensure that disinfecting measures can be performed. Regular tram service will resume at 6:00 AM each day and continue until 1:00 AM the following morning. These early morning closures will continue each day until further notice.

A resident asked:

How will essential workers get off and to the Island with both Tram and subway closed half of the night?

Read more »

Mayor de Blasio Announces Free Coronavirus Face Coverings To Be Given Out At NYC Parks This Weekend, But Not On Roosevelt Island - RIOC Discussing Possibility Of Distributing Masks, Reserves Right To Close Any Public Space When Social Distancing & Face Covering Guidelines Not Being Met

Reported previously that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) closed Southpoint Park last Saturday afternoon because RIOC determined social distancing practices were not being maintained within the park and a number of people were not wearing face coverings. RIOC did not provide any metrics regarding the number of people who were not complying with these safety protocols.

According to RIOC:

Maintaining Social Distancing

The weather is getting nicer and the draw of the outdoors is getting stronger as the news about the pandemic slowly grows more encouraging. Although we want everyone to enjoy our public spaces, everyone must do so responsibly. That means you must wear a mask or a cloth covering your mouth and nose in public. You must also maintain a social distance of at least six feet whenever possible to cut down on the possibility of infection.

Unfortunately, we had to close Southpoint Park over the weekend because people were not adhering to social distancing guidelines. It is a drastic step we do not take lightly, but one we will take again if another unsafe situation arises.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that free face coverings will be distributed at NYC Parks beginning this weekend.

Will distribution of face coverings be available on Roosevelt Island @RIOCny @BenKallos @NYCMayor https://t.co/vbvNrzgZmS

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 30, 2020

But not at any Roosevelt Island parks as shown on this map - the closest is Queensbridge Park across the East River in Long Island City.

I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and RIOC Directors

Mayor de Blasio announced today that NYC will be giving out free face coverings at local parks.

But no park on Roosevelt island is listed as distributing face coverings. Here's link.

Will RIOC distribute face coverings at Roosevelt Island parks to avoid closing Southpoint and Lighthouse Park as was done last Saturday?

Any comment?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

RIOC reserves the right to close any public space when social distancing and guidelines pertaining to masks/face coverings are not being met. We are in the process of discussing the possibility of mask / face covering distribution with the governor’s office and other stakeholders.

Roosevelt Island residents can be creative with their face masks.

My #iPhone FaceID won’t recognize me with my mask on so I tried to “set up an alternative appearance” but the phone won’t do it cause my face is obstructed. 🙄Can’t ya just read my eyes? 😷 pic.twitter.com/3qdjZlAlpX

— NamelyNorm (@NamelyNorm) April 6, 2020

Unlikely that any masks from NYC or RIOC will have such nice smiles.

UPDATE 4:25 PM

Happy that masks are being distributed Citywide!

We are now working with @NYCgov and @NYCMayor to add a location for distribution of free masks on the Eastside of Manhattan with suggestions including Midtown, #UES, @RooseveltIsland, and #ElBarrio#NYC #COVID__19 pic.twitter.com/U8VZMhy8G6

— Ben Kallos, NYC Council Member (@BenKallos) April 30, 2020

I think (if we think masks work and that remains the executive order) this is the eay to go: distribute masks in front of parks, subway stations, tram, grocery stores etc...

— Thierry Rolling (@T19R84) April 30, 2020

People, Wear Your Face Masks And Maintain Social Distance Outside Or Roosevelt Island Parks And Public Spaces Will Close Says RIOC

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon this past weekend, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) closed Southpoint Park because as described by RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley:

Due to the Social Distancing rules, South Point Park will be closed, for the reminder of the day. This will help enforce Social Distancing and stop the spread. Everyone remain safe and wear your face mask.... I’ve asked PSD for details about today’s incident.

I asked Mr McCauley for an update today:

Any more details as to why Southpoint Park was closed Saturday. How many people were there.

Mr McCauley replied:

Not an exact count, but given the number of people who were not adhering to social distancing and face protection guidelines, we had no choice but to close the park. We will continue to close it and other public spaces when social distancing rules are not being observed.

A Roosevelt Island observer shares this photo showing:

... the number of people yesterday (Saturday) who were on the island without masks, including many joggers & bikers who came right alongside me. I took photos of a few people who were in public clearly not wearing masks.

I think it's worth noting that yesterday I also saw one person (without a mask) spit into the air in front of the deli and another woman sneezed into the air near Foodtown. Might be good for people to be aware that things like this still happen in public and no one should be making assumptions that it's safe.

According to NY State Andrew Cuomo's April 15 Executive Order:

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced he will issue an Executive Order requiring all people in New York to wear a mask or a face covering when out in public and in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, such as on public transportation. The Executive Order will go into effect on Friday, April 17th....

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Beautiful Saturday Afternoon On Roosevelt Island Today - RIOC Closes Southpoint Park For Failure To Observe Coronavirus Social Distancing

People were out and about on Roosevelt Island this pleasant sunny Sunday afternoon.

Roosevelt Island is fortunate to have a lot of open space particularly on a nice afternoon like today. People are out, most wearing masks and keeping social distance @cornell_tech campus and outdoor cafe area. pic.twitter.com/nn0f9crwnR

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 25, 2020

“Most” wearing masks but many without.

— Gloria Herman (@gloriaetherman) April 25, 2020

Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossoms on East River Promenade across from Cornell Tech Today pic.twitter.com/XnvSiB8aAL

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 25, 2020

After 40 days I decided to go out for necessities and enjoy the weather. It's no better than it was 40 days ago, except more people are wearing masks, but not all. Not social distancing being practiced. get it together #NewYork #NYTough #StaySafeStayHealthy #rooseveltisland #nyc

— Jonn Nubian ® (@JonnNubian) April 25, 2020

But apparently people were not observing Social Distancing at Southpoint Park. This evening around 6 PM, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced:

Due to the Social Distancing rules, South Point Park will be closed, for the reminder of the day. This will help enforce Social Distancing and stop the spread. Everyone remain safe and wear your face mask.

I asked RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley:

What was happening at Southpoint Park to close it. How many people were there.

Is this just for remaining part of today

Mr McCauley replied:

t is just for the remainder of today, but will will close the park whenever we see social distancing is not being followed. I’ve asked PSD for details about today’s incident.

UPDATE 4/26 - From the Roosevelt Island Twitterverse:

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A Lovely Sunny Spring Day To Be Out On Roosevelt Island This Sunday But Please Keep Your Social Distance And Wear Masks When Outside For Your Protection And Others

It was a beautiful sunny spring Sunday today and some Roosevelt Island ladies were out at the Cornell Cafe with their masks on and practicing social distancing from each other.

Image From Vicki Feinmel

Social distancing at Roosevelt Island FDR 4 Freedoms Park too.

360 degree view of NYC East River waterfront from Roosevelt Island @4FreedomsPark today. Social distance being maintained pic.twitter.com/xszsBXE0nn

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 19, 2020

But some people were not wearing masks outdoors and walking a bit to close to others.

@Rooseveltisland @Rooseveltisland there's a lot of people outside without face coverings. They're jogging, walking, cycling with close proximity to others. Where is the enforcement of the current law that mandates face coverings?

— Joanna Sawruk (@joannamkim) April 19, 2020

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