RIOC PSD Officers Prevent Roosevelt Island Mom With 2 Kids And Stroller Trying To Get Home From Using Tram Station Elevator To Avoid Long Line Of Mostly Sightseeing Tourists - What Is RIOC Policy For People Who Need Assistance Boarding The Tram?

On November 5, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes and Public Safety Department Chief Chief Kevin Brown:

This weekend, I believe it was Friday, a Roosevelt Island mom with 2 kids and a stroller trying to get home was prevented from using the Tram elevator to get to the platform by Public Safety Officers.

The Tram line was very long, mostly tourists, and the Mom wanted to use the Tram elevator to avoid waiting in the long line.

Why did the PSD officers prevent the Mom from using the Tram elevator?

Here's a link to video showing what happened.

My understanding was that RIOC policy will allow elderly, disabled and parents with strollers/young children to skip the long Tram line by using the Tram elevator.

Is that no longer the case?

Please let me know if there will be a comment from RIOC.

There was no reply from Chief Brown or Mr Haynes.

RIOC Board Director Ben Fhala answered on November 10:

I want to seize this opportunity to emphasize my commitment to accessibility, drawing on my experience as the former Executive Vice President for the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association. Alongside Professor Lydia Tang, we have diligently worked to garner support from Director Kevin Brown, who has directed his staff to assist community members in need. I've personally observed individuals being granted access through the tram's exit to sit comfortably before boarding, and many residents have expressed gratitude for the support provided by the POMA staff and PSD officers.

On a personal note, Kevin Brown, the Director of PSD, has demonstrated incredible leadership, playing a pivotal role in instilling a mindset of empathy and assistance among his officers. From my observations of his interactions with the public and the stories shared by community members, I have full confidence in his leadership.

While I refrain from delving into specific cases at this time, I reiterate my trust in Director Kevin Brown and his dedication to the well-being of our residents.

Lastly, while we appreciate the exceptional work of PSD and POMA, it's essential to acknowledge that the TRAM can experience high traffic during peak operational hours. As residents, we can contribute by redirecting foot traffic to more spacious alternatives, such as the shuttle train and/or ferry. Both modes of transportation are accessible to members of our community with special needs. Our board members, with the support of elected officials, have worked diligently to maintain accessibility during the transitional MTA work on the F Shuttle train. While we continue to advocate for solutions for community members with accessibility needs, I encourage everyone to utilize the shuttle subway or ferry during "rush hours" when possible.

Thanks,

Ben Fhala*

Resident Board Member

*Disclaimer: All statements made by Ben Fhala are made in his capacity as a RIOC Resident Board member. He does not represent the entirety of RIOC or the full board but serves as a Resident Board member, offering information to the community and its stakeholders.

Mr Fhala had reported last August :

... We heard that from PSD if you're a senior or if you're a person with young children just go to the front of the lines and let them know that. They should allow you to go through....  

Chief Brown and Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso discussed the issue of priority Roosevelt Island Tram boarding for people who need assistance during the September 19 PSD Community Engagement meeting:

Take A Ride On The New $6.8 Million Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station Elevator Cabin - It's Spacious, Quick And Clean, At Least For Today, Second Cabin Opening By End Of Year

As reported yesterday, 

After many years of starts, stops and delays, beginning in April 2014, the first of two new cabins from the $6.8 Million Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station Elevator project...

opened for service today. 

The cabin is spacious fitting for people, strollers and wheelchairs and moves quickly to and from the street to the station platform. 

At least for now, if you take the elevator up to the platform, you have to exit and then re-enter thru the turnstile to access the Tram Cabin. 

Take a ride on the new Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station elevator cabin.

The second Tram elevator cabin is scheduled to open by the end of this year.

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that, due to the construction of the Manhattan Tram Elevator project, starting Tuesday, October 12th the below changes will take effect: 

• The existing operational elevator will be closed to the public 
• The south stairwell towards Tramway Plaza Park will also be closed 
• The new east elevator will be open for public use 

Kindly follow posted signage and directions from Tram personnel for the new pedestrian traffic pattern. While the overall project is still under construction, this temporary pedestrian traffic pattern change is necessary due to ongoing work required to demolish the old Tram elevator. 

Thank you for your patience.

More info on the Roosevelt Island Tram Elevator at this prior post.

7 Years After Roosevelt Island Tram Manhattan Station Elevator Project Began, The First Of Two Elevator Cabins Will Open For Service Tuesday October 12 Says RIOC

After many years of starts, stops and delays, beginning in April 2014, the first of two new cabins from the $6.8 Million Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station Elevator project will  open for service tomorrow, Tuesday, October 12.

Image From September 29 RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that, due to the construction of the Manhattan Tram Elevator project, starting Tuesday, October 12th the below changes will take effect: 

• The existing operational elevator will be closed to the public 
• The south stairwell towards Tramway Plaza Park will also be closed 
• The new east elevator will be open for public use 

Kindly follow posted signage and directions from Tram personnel for the new pedestrian traffic pattern. While the overall project is still under construction, this temporary pedestrian traffic pattern change is necessary due to ongoing work required to demolish the old Tram elevator. 

Thank you for your patience.

Roosevelt Island residents have been patiently waiting since 2014.

In September 2014, then RIOC Director of Engineering Jim Mortimer reported:

... Because our efforts to solicit design/build contractors for the new elevators were unsuccessful, an RFP for the design of two new elevators has been issued. Proposals are due on 10/3/14. After the design is complete in early 2015, we will procure a contractor and construct the new elevators which will be completed in 2015....

In September 2015, former RIOC President Charlene Indelicato reported: 

... the company preparing design and construction drawings for the two new Tram Manhattan Station elevators recently went bankrupt delaying work on the project for about a month. RIOC expects a successor company to take over work on the design and construction drawings soon pending approval of the bankruptcy court and fiscal vetting by RIOC.

Ms. Indelicato anticipates the two new Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station elevators to be working by Autumn of 2016.

Reported in 2019:

... The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced in April 2016, that work on the new $6.1 million Tram Elevators would begin in September/October 2016 and be completed in one year.

But work did not start until May of 2018 and then was soon halted after discovering the soil was not structurally sound for the foundation originally designed for the project....

In January 2020, RIOC announced that construction would resume on the Manhattan Tram station elevators. 

In December 2020, RIOC President Shelton Haynes reported:

... A month or two delay in Manhattan Tram Elevator project due to Covid 19 and obtaining parts from Europe...

During September 29, 2021 RIOC Board of Directors meeting, Mr Haynes gave a status report on the new Tram elevators and reported the first cabin will soon open and he added:

... the project should be completed by December of this year. It's on time and under budget....

Finally, after 7 years from it's start, the first of two Roosevelt Island Manhattan Tram Station elevator cabins will open for service tomorrow,

 

Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From April 12, 2016 CB 8 Preeentation

but it can hardly be called on time.

Status Of Roosevelt Island New Tram Station Elevators, Southpoint Park Shoreline, FDR Hope And Nelly Bly Memorial Projects Among Items Discussed In RIOC President Shelton Haynes June 24 Community Report To Board Directors - Dog Run, Food Pantry, Horticultural Beautification Strategy, Road Striping And More Too

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes presented his Community Report to the the June 24 RIOC Board of Directors Meeting,  

Mr Haynes began his report by congratulating Roosevelt Island resident and long time RIOC Board Director David Kraut for his 27 years on the RIOC Board and virtually presented Mr. Kraut with a plaque commemorating his service.

Here's video of the RIOC President's Report.

Mr Haynes announced upcoming Roosevelt Island Community events,

updates on a variety of issues,

closing of the Swift Covid 19 Pop Up testing site,

status of new Tram Station Elevator 

Southpoint Park Shoreline

and Nelly Bly Memorial Projects.

Also discussed in the President's report were:

Roosevelt Island Tram Elevator Broken For 4 Weeks - RIOC Cancels Weekend Manhattan Red Bus Shuttle Service Leaving Roosevelt Island Stair Challenged Residents Using Wheelchairs, Walkers, Canes & Strollers To Fend For Themselves

Last December, the Roosevelt Island Tram Manhattan Station elevators broke down again. At that time, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) reported:

Due to an elevator service outage at the Manhattan Tram Station, the RIOC Red Bus will provide special shuttle service to and from Manhattan for those with limited mobility. Schedule information is below:

ROOSEVELT ISLAND TO MANHATTAN

Departs hourly from the Tramway, making all Northbound local stops to Capobianco Field (opposite PS/IS 217). The first trip will depart at 11 AM. Last trip will be at 7 PM.

MANHATTAN TO ROOSEVELT ISLAND 

Departs on the half hour from the Southwest side of 2nd Avenue, between 58th & 59th Street and will make all Southbound local bus stops (starting with 591 Main Street) to the Tramway. The last trip will depart Manhattan at 7:30 PM. Please note, that there is no shuttle bus service from 3 PM – 4 PM daily. 

The Tram Shuttle will run seven days a week until further notice.

The 7 day Manhattan Red Bus Service was appreciated as noted by this resident:

Stair-challenged residents & employees appreciate this necessary service. Many Seniors, individuals of all ages with a wide variety of disabilities, cane-, wheelchair- and walker-users, and some stroller-pushers all benefit. 

While many of us continue to take many precautions & travel less, the Tram remains our primary mode of direct, barrier-free, accessible transit to and from Manhattan.

But several weeks ago, without adequate public notice, RIOC cancelled the weekend Manhattan Red Bus Shuttle service.

A Roosevelt Island resident sent this message last Friday:

The red bus is no longer operating on the weekend to Manhattan. I waited for it last weekend only to find out from a red bus driver that service was discontinued. 

Then when I took the bus into Manhattan today I spoke with the driver. He stated that due to very low ridership on Saturday and Sunday, RIOC decided to stop service on those days. 

It’s very disappointing and upsetting. The tram gets crowded. So many people who don’t live on the island get on the tram to “sightsee”. The tram operators do not count the number of people that get on. I don’t see PSD counting the number of people anymore. So basically you can’t social distance on the tram. Just horrible. Why have all the signs up at the tram if it’s not going to be followed.

Last Tuesday, I asked RIOC's newly hired Public Information Officer Amy Smith:

I'm doing a story on the Red Bus Shuttle to Manhattan not running on weekends. 

The reason for the Red Bus Shuttle to Manhattan is the broken tram elevator which is broken during weekdays as well as weekends. Any comment from RIOC why it is not running on weekends? How many people use the Red Bus Shuttle on weekdays and weekends? When is the Tram elevator expected to be fixed?

and asked her again during a conversation yesterday and follow up email.  

Ms Smith declined to give any answer.

During last evening's RIOC Operations Advisory Committee meeting, RIOC Acting President reported that the Manhattan Tram Elevator was expected to be repaired and working this weekend.

We shall see. 

UPDATE 4:45 PM - RIOC sent out this advisory at 3:30 PM:

Please be advised that the Manhattan Tram station elevator has resumed service. Thank you for your patience.

Should we start a pool counting days until Tram Elevator breaks again?

December 2020 RIOC President's Report - Upcoming Plans To Engage With Roosevelt Island Community Groups On Bike Safety And Other Issues, Free Covid 19 Testing Site Coming This Month, Agreement With WFF On Cat Sanctuary & More

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Acting President Shelton Haynes presented his President's Report to the community during the December 29 Board of Directors Meeting, Mr Haynes announced RIOC plans to engage in public conversations this month on Bike lane/safety/signage issues and will reach out to local community groups on a monthly basis for feedback on a variety of RIOC initiatives.

Mr Haynes also reported:

• RIOC reached an agreement with Wildlife Freedom Foundation on the Cat Sanctuaries.
• Tram Elevator will be out of service for another couple of weeks, a Red Bus Shuttle will be in service to and from Manhattan
• A free, rapid Covid 19 Test Site at the former NY Public Library site will be open this month
  
• Tram elevator out of service for another couple of weeks, red bus shuttle will be in service to and from Manhattan
• New Youth Center failed FDNY elevator inspection, should be completed by end of January
• A month or two delay in Manhattan Tram Elevator project due to Covid 19 and obtaining parts from Europe
  
• FDR Hope Memorial unveiling soon weather and social distancing permitting
• McManus Comfort Station should be done this sprin
  

Here's the full President's Report from Mr Haynes.

Full video of December 29, 2020 RIOC Board meeting here.

Community Report From RIOC President Susan Rosenthal On Roosevelt Island Disinfectant Efforts To Minimize Coronavirus, Blackwell House Renovation Done, Tram Station Elevator Project Stop Work Order, Lighthouse Park Expansion Moving Forward, Finalizing Nellie Bly Memorial Agreement With Artist & More

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal reports to the March 5 Board of Directors meeting on:

• Coronavirus - Red Bus, Tram and facilities are being disinfected
• Blackwell House work done , waiting for final inspection from NYC Buildings Department,
• Youth Center renovation is done, waiting for final inspection by FDNY
• Tram Elevator foundations halted by stop work order but will resume this week
• Hope Memorial work halted by stop work order too, hopes to have it resolved this week
• Lighthouse Park expansion plans moving forward
• Finalizing agreement with Nellie Bly Memorial artist
• April 2 Re-introducing RIOC Public Safety Department meeting at Senior Center

Here's video of Ms Rosenthal's President Report:



and more on Roosevelt Island Coronavirus efforts.

Roosevelt Island Tram operator using disinfectant wipes in cabin prior to passengers boarding today @RIOCny #coronavirus https://t.co/VWm36ILIkY pic.twitter.com/Rqjf4ix3G0

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) March 7, 2020

RIOC President Susan Rosenthal Reports On Roosevelt Island Infrastructure Projects - Southpoint Park Shoreline Restoration Moving Forward, Tram Station Elevator Construction Begins Again, More Green Space For Lighthouse Park Expansion, No Soccer Field & More

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal provided updates on various Roosevelt Island infrastructure projects during the January 30 RIOC Board of Directors meeting including the Southpoint Park Shoreline Restoration

Images from RIOC

Read more »

Long Delayed Roosevelt Island Tram Elevator Project To Resume Construction End Of October - Soil Was Not Structually Sound For Original Foundation And Time Needed For New Design And Permits Says RIOC

The man in this picture taken yesterday,

like many Roosevelt Island residents, is wondering what is going on with the long delayed Roosevelt Island Tram elevator project?

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced in April 2016, that work on the new $6.1 million Tram Elevators would begin in September/October 2016 and be completed in one year.

But work did not start until May of 2018 and then was soon halted after discovering the soil was not structurally sound for the foundation originally designed for the project.

Long delayed Roosevelt Island Tram elevator project to soon resume construction pic.twitter.com/I8Se25Iqcp

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) October 22, 2019

After changing the foundation design and obtaining new approvals from the NYC Departments of Transportation and Buildings as well as the MTA, RIOC reported during the October 15 Operations Advisory Committee meeting, that work on the 2 new Roosevelt Island Tram Elevators will begin by the end of this month, replacing the existing cramped and often broken elevator.

Here's RIOC Project Manager Prince Shah updating the RIOC Board on the Tram Elevator project.



According to Mr Shah, the the cost of the project has increased to approximately $7 million and should be completed by December 2020. Mr. Shah added that the foundation design changes will not effect anything seen above ground.

 Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From April 12, 2016 CB 8 Preeentation

Below is the Roosevelt Island Tram Station elevator plan presented to April 12, 2016 meeting of CB 8's Roosevelt Island Committee by GC Eng & Associates. According to the presentation. the new Roosevelt Island Tram Station will have:

• Two New Glass Elevators
• Increased User Capacity
• ADA Compliant Elevators
• Enhanced Destination Visibility
• Greater Reliability & Maintainability  
• Increased Lighting and Security
• Improved Circulation

Roosevelt Island Tram Station Elevator Presentation

RIOC President Susan Rosenthal Roosevelt Island Community Report - Southpoint Park East River Waterfront Access Project, Blackwell House Opening Not Yet, Motorgate Repairs, Electric Car Charging Stations, New Tram Elevator Construction Starting, Youth Center Renovations Nearly Complete, Halloween Parade & Town Hall With Nellie Bly Memorial Artist

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal reported to the October 17 RIOC Board of Directors meeting on the following subjects:

• Southpoint Park project to open up both East and West Side sides between fence and East River giving access to the waterfront.
  
  
  
  
  More info here.
• Blackwell House - no definite date yet when it will reopen. FDNY Fire inspection scheduled in middle of November and Department of Building inspection as well. Exterior painting currently being done. Hope to open by end of year but can't be sure.
• Motorgate repairs waterproofing phase 1 done. Phase 2 to begin
• Electric Car Charging Stations will be on 4th level by entrance to Motorgate Garage
• New Tram elevator construction will start at end of October
• Youth Center renovation will be completed next month.
• Halloween Parade will march from Capobianco Field to Sportspark on Main Street
• December 3 Town Hall with artist about the Nellie Bly Memorial.

Here's Ms Rosenthal's October 17 Roosevelt Island President's Report

RIOC Update On Long Delayed $6.1 Million Roosevelt Island Tram Manhattan Station Elevator Project - Also Updates On RI Bike Ramp/Lane, Blackwell House Renovation Ribbon Cutting And Youth Center Renovation Work Begins This Month

What is the status of the long delayed Roosevelt Island $6.1 Million Tram elevator project

 Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From April 12, 2016 CB 8 Preeentation

first announced in April 2016 with projected construction start date in October 2016, but to date, still delayed? The Manhattan Tram Plaza park area is surrounded by fencing with no apparent work being done.

A Roosevelt Island resident tweets:

Does anybody know what’s happening with the tramway plaza construction which hasn’t progressed in months? @Rooseveltisland please tell me it’s not another project management failure by @RIOCny

— Alessandro Monetti (@AlexMonetti_) May 29, 2019

I asked the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) for a status update on the Tram Elevator Project. A RIOC Spokesperson replied today:

Manhattan Side Tram Elevators:

Unfortunately, this project has been delayed due to a subsurface geotechnical concern that required a complete re-design of the foundation system. Although the public has not seen much activity at the sight recently, RIOC has not been idle. We have been conducting soil boring tests and redesigning the foundation of the elevators.

We have also been working to obtain necessary approvals of our new drawings from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and New York City’s Department of Buildings (DOB). The contractor is currently filing for work permits with DOB, MTA and the Department of Environmental Protection. RIOC hopes to obtain these permits in mid-summer 2019.

The contractor will need 12 -14 months to complete the elevators once work on the elevators resumes.

RIOC's Spokesperson updates us on various other infrastructure projects:

Bike Ramp Update:

As you know, this project is being funded with Federal grants administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. The grant requires four (4) reviews during the design process:

• A historic analysis review
• A concept review
• A 50% development review
• A final construction review

We are at the second review point, which is the concept review. The design of the ramp is likely to undergo several changes throughout the approval process. RIOC will hold a public information session at a board meeting this fall. We hope to complete all four stages of review by the end of 2019, at which point we will have a better sense of when construction may begin.

Bike Lane Update:

In May, 2019, RIOC received money for the construction of a bike lane on Roosevelt Island. This summer, RIOC staff will be meeting with the New York State Department of Transportation and our consultant to develop a construction schedule. Please note that the Bike Lane project, like the Bike Ramp project, must also undergo several reviews during the design process:

• A historic analysis review
• A concept review
• A 50% development review
• A final construction review
• A New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) review for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) certification and State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) certification.

As with the Bike Ramp project, all plans can change at any point in the approval process. RIOC will show its preliminary plans to the public at a board meeting once the project begins to take form.

Blackwell House Update:

Final inspections and oversight regulatory permit close-outs are ongoing. We hope to have a date for a ribbon cutting ceremony in the near future.

Youth Center Update:

The contractor is set to mobilize on the site on June 17th. Work is scheduled to be completed in fall of 2019. We will keep you apprised of updates when we receive them.

Hey Susan - RIOC President Susan Rosenthal Answers Roosevelt Island Residents Questions On Dog Run Site Selection Safety, Tram Station Elevator, Motorgate Electric Car Charging Stations, Seawall Replacement, Sportspark Locker Rooms & More

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal answers your questions in this fifth installment of Hey Susan feature.

HEY SUSAN!

An occasional column of questions and answers to and from RIOC President and CEO Susan Rosenthal

HEY SUSAN!

I have a few concerns. There was considerable talk that the dog park would be moved to the area just south of 480 Main Street and adjacent to the sprinklers and playground. This area is already congested in the summer with considerable foot, bike, and RIOC vehicle traffic. Has there been a decision where the permanent home will be for the dog park and if 480 is that location, can you please reconsider?

Also, what is the hold up on the new tram station elevator? There has not been any progress for months on that site and the old elevator is breaking down more than ever. Is there a reason why they have not been working on it?

Lastly, the construction on the new Southtown building blocking the side walk is a traffic accident waiting to happen. The residents of 480 are forced to cross the street without a crosswalk and the view from both directions is limited for drivers and pedestrians. This paired with area driveways results in a lot of cars turning and people walking with no crosswalk. Can RIOC address this?


SUSAN: We chose the dog park location based upon the locations of other dog parks throughout NYC’s parks. The issues you raise can be handled with fencing, gate locations, and landscaping. Also, by locating the run there, we will have more open common space for all residents when Riverwalk buildings 8 and 9 are completed. Hudson-Related has shared some of their recreational ideas for that open space and it will be a great addition to the island. We have reviewed the issues you raised about the dog run with PSD (our Chief and Deputy have extraordinary experience in security and safety from their NYPD days) and they are confident that this location will not cause any unmanageable concerns.

Regarding the Manhattan Tram elevator, the construction drawings had to be revised because soil borings demonstrated a need to change the pile foundation design to support the structure. RIOC hired additional engineers to assist in the necessary modifications, which have been completed. We are now awaiting NYC Department of Buildings’ and NY Transit Authority approval, as well as the NYC Parks permit in order to proceed.

PSD was made aware of sidewalk safety issues around the new Southtown building construction and added signage for the protection of our pedestrians.


HEY SUSAN!

Any thoughts to providing charging stations for electric/hybrid cars in Motorgate? Electric cars are the future. Can you help by providing a means to help clean the air on Roosevelt Island?

SUSAN: Yes, we are doing more than thinking about charging stations! After the completion of the waterproofing project at Motorgate Garage, (we expect the project to be approved by the Board in April), we have plans for charging stations, new striping, and new signage. The current plan is for four charging stations, with the possibility of expanding to six.

HEY SUSAN!

Hopefully this $8.7 Million sea wall initiative has taken into consideration the rapidly rising sea level that came very close to taking RI out during storm Sandy?

SUSAN: The project you are referring to is for new seawall railings around the entire island. The seawall railing contractor has been repairing concrete damage on the face and topside of the seawall as they work northward. We also have a FEMA grant which is being used to repair an existing part of the seawall made of stone that was damaged in hurricane Irene.

We are in the midst of a seawall replacement project which will completely transform and beautify the east and west shorelines of Southpoint Park. The existing concrete retaining wall will be replaced by a “rip rap” revetment – basically, a sloping berm of armor stones that serve a similar purpose as a retaining wall, but is more cost effective to install and maintain, while allowing better access to the water. Along with the revetment, the project will remove the scrub brush along the existing seawall and replace it with professionally landscaped paths and seating for island residents and visitors. Once the scrub is removed in these areas, the views will be excellent and this area will become much more attractive as a destination for residents, especially in the warmer months.

We are continuing to evaluate the rest of the existing seawall to determine where replacement with a durable revetment is needed.

HEY SUSAN!

The men's locker room at the Sportspark pool has fallen into a state of disrepair. Issues include: handicap-access showerhead malfunctioning, one of the urinals malfunctioning, and the swimsuit-drying machine not working. This is on top of the chronic issues of: warped, dusty and rusting lockers, soap dispensers frequently empty, and a lack of anti-slip matting that make the wet floors a daily hazard for little wet feet. Thank you so much for your team's attention to this. I understand that a complete overhaul of the facility (while long overdue) would be a large investment. But routine plumbing repairs, some anti-slip mats, and closer attention to things like soap & paper towels would cost little and go a long way.

SUSAN: Thank you for reaching out regarding the locker rooms at Sportspark. We have a significant project addressing the bathrooms, locker rooms, HVAC system, and much more, which we intend to bring to the Board on March 7th in order to move forward with construction/design drawings.

We will address the other points you have raised with our maintenance staff. Thank you for bringing them to our attention.

Do you have a question you’d like to have answered by RIOC President & CEO Susan Rosenthal? Send it to the subject HEY SUSAN! at information@rioc.ny.gov. Want to report a problem? Send us feedback at rioc.ny.gov/Requesttracker.aspx.

RIOC Updates On Roosevelt Island Infrastructure Repair Projects - Helix Ramp, Tram Station Platform, Tram Elevators, Seawall, Blackwell House & Playgrounds

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson updates us on current Roosevelt Island infrastructure projects. According to Mr. Robertson:

There is very little available, or unaccounted for, space left on Roosevelt Island’s 147 acres to build new infrastructure. But there’s a big need to maintain its existing infrastructure and keep it updated for the next 50 years.

The reality though is RI’s infrastructure maintenance is often costly, time-consuming and considered a disruptive inconvenience to residents, business owners and even tourists and visitors who live, work and flock here in growing annual numbers. But the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) believes maintenance’s long-term benefits trump the short-term inconveniences

Last year, RIOC embarked on a robust five-year capital improvement plan. Some of those initial projects now are close to completion. Below, we’ll update the status of those, revisit the progress of others and maybe introduce you to more plans of which you might have been unaware.

The Helix Ramp: This road construction repair job began in February and during early demolition and preparation the structure was found to be in a more severe state of disrepair than previously thought. In May, the contractors and project managers extended the project scope and timeline for completion. The two-lane spiral roadway and adjacent plaza will now re-open to traffic on July 3. There will be intermittent disruptions to two way traffic to complete installation of new guardrails as well as expansion joint material along the lower ramp of the helix.

The deteriorating Roosevelt Island seawall railings that run along the majority of the Island’s shoreline about 3.5 miles in length are being replaced with new anti-corrosive steel railings. The $8.7 million project is being completed by Elit Green Builders Corporation which so far has completed about a third of the project around the southern end of the Island. Work is expected to continue through December 2018.

The Tram Station platform construction, a project that began May 16 and was scheduled to last 30 days, has been delayed by inclement weather. The construction work along with the re-installation of MetroCard vending machines should be completed by the end of June. Both cabins of the Tram will return to service at that time.

Tram Station Elevator: A $6.1 million construction project to upgrade the Manhattan Tram Station elevator started this week and the two building phases will be finished by late Spring 2019. The elevator project, at 59th Street and Second Avenue, calls for an iconic, two-bank, ADA-compliant glass elevator which replaces the existing elevator that has outlasted its expected mechanical life.

The RI Youth Center renovation work is now in the proposal bid process. Once a contractor is selected this summer, the work will last up to three months. The youth center programs will be relocated to the Sportspark during the construction period.

Blackwell House Renovation is a full structural refurbishment of the original farmhouse home of the Blackwell family, one of the early owners and inhabitants of what is now known as Roosevelt Island. The outside porch and entire interior, of the home built in 1796, has been totally gutted and new floors, walls, support beams, stairways, and code-compliant HAVC systems are being installed. The house will serve as a community meeting facility and new office for the Roosevelt Island Historical Society and reservoir for all Island and RIOC archives. Current completion date is early fall 2018.

The Al Lewis and Blackwell north playground areas will be getting playground equipment repairs and replacement and new poured in place rubberized play surfaces; work is set to begin later this summer.

Stay tuned for additional updates and news about upcoming projects at Octagon Field, Firefighter’s Field, Motorgate, Southpoint Park and Lighthouse Park.

$6.1 Million Roosevelt Island Tram Manhattan Station ADA Compliant Glass Elevators Upgrade Starting This Week - Completion Scheduled For Next Spring

The long delayed project to replace the outdated and dilapidated Roosevelt Island Tram Manhattan Station elevators

Image of Out Of Service Tram Passenger Elevator and ADA Red Lift From May 29 2013

with brand new glass box elevators

Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From April 12, 2016 CB 8 Preeentation

starts this week after originally scheduled to be completed in 2016.

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

A $6.1 million construction project to upgrade the Manhattan Tram Station elevator started this week and the two building phases will be finished by next Spring, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) announced Wednesday.

The elevator project, at 59th Street and Second Avenue, is part of a series on-going transportation upgrades to the Roosevelt Island Tram. The design calls for an iconic, two-bank, ADA-compliant glass elevator which replaces the existing elevator that has outlasted its expected mechanical life.

During a two-year period, RIOC solicited public input, met with New York City Department of Parks and Recreation officials and community members to shape and finalize the project design which will require custom manufacturing.

The construction contract was awarded in December 2017 to Sea Crest Construction Corporation, a subsidiary of Scalamandre Construction, Inc., both based in Long Island, New York. Both companies have decades of public works project experience building transit plazas, industrial plants, roads, bridges and airport terminals across the New York metropolitan area.

The project will be completed in two phases; the first of the two glass elevator banks will be built and the existing old elevator will be dismantled. Then the second glass elevator bank will be constructed so that there will always be a working elevator.

“We have begun doing some isolated exploration and boring work on the site this week,” said RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson. “We will continue that and then set up the site construction fencing by the end of the month.”

The fencing will not encroach or restrict access to the surrounding sidewalks or station entryway. During the steel erection work, an overhead sidewalk shed will be installed. The park area around the Tram station will be closed and several planter beds will be temporarily relocated.

Below is the Roosevelt Island Tram Station elevator plan presented to April 12, 2016 meeting of CB 8's Roosevelt Island Committee by GC Eng & Associates. According to the presentation. the new Roosevelt Island Tram Station will have:

• Two New Glass Elevators
• Increased User Capacity
• ADA Compliant Elevators
• Enhanced Destination Visibility
• Greater Reliability & Maintainability  
• Increased Lighting and Security
• Improved Circulation

Roosevelt Island Tram Station Elevator Presentation

Gridlock Sam Schwartz To Consult On Roosevelt Island Helix Repairs Traffic Problems Among Items In RIOC President's Report To Board Directors - Also, Tram Platform Repairs, Tram Elevator Update, Bike Ramp, Youth Center & Thanks Former Directors For Service

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal reported to the April 18 Board of Directors meeting on the following:

• Thanked former RIOC Directors Margie Smith and Fay Christian for their service,
• Update on Youth Center programming, rules, spring Soccer program and building renovation,
• Tram station platform repairs will begin again once the weather gets warmer with a service interruption of approximately 2 -3 weeks,
• Tram Elevator project will start soon, hopefully beginning in May,
• Helix ramp is in a lot worse shape than thought. Bringing in Gridlock Sam Schwartz to consult on improving traffic problems caused by ramp repair,
• Roosevelt Island Bridge Bike Ramp Design bidder will be brought for approval at next Board meeting.

Also, Ms Rosenthal thanked Public Safety Department Chief Jack McManus for arranging to have a NYPD car and FDNY ambulance stationed on Roosevelt Island during the Helix ramp construction repairs. Chief McManus added that it was Deputy Chief Kevin Brown who made the arrangements.

RIOC President Susan Rosenthal Community Report On Roosevelt Island Infrastructure, Westview Privatization, Rivercross Ground Lease, Sportspark Renovation, Tram Station Elevators, Ambulance Service, Youth Center, Beacon Child Center, Helix Repair, Motorgate Striping, Radar Speed Signs & More

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal reports to the community:

The position of Public Information Officer (PIO) was recently created by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) to increase communication between us and our residents, to create a basis for a natural exchange of information and ideas. RIOC understands the absence of relevant up-to-date information creates a sense of disempowerment, mistrust and frustration. We are working to change that. We’re learning the more accurate information about our work that we share with the island community, the more we will work together for the common good.

I hope you will try to get to know RIOC’s newest officer Alonza Robertson (alonza.robertson@rioc.ny.gov).

I’m often e-mailed, phoned and stopped on Main Street by residents, community leaders and business owners asking about the who, what, when, why or how RIOC is going to do something they believe we should. Often my answers seemingly disarm preconceived notions that RIOC is an indifferent political oligarchy. This President’s Message column is a means of me providing you information before the questions even are asked.

Let’s increase this dialogue so RIOC can continue improving our service to you.

NYS Budget $25 Million

With the passage of the State of New York’s FY 2018 State Budget two weeks ago, RIOC will receive a $25 million payment to supplement its existing capital infrastructure improvement program.

The payment is the tangible result of a unique 2013 land-swap agreement - regarding a 2.62-acre parcel to help facilitate the Cornell-Tech campus development - between the State and RIOC. The money, according to the budget law, “is to be used in support of the comprehensive, multi-year capital program for capital improvements on Roosevelt Island.”

RIOC plans to add the funds to its existing five-year $40-million major improvements schedule, an aggressive plan that works to immediately address aging island infrastructure and public facilities that have had neither improvements nor significant repairs since their original construction 40 years ago.

Some of those capital improvement items include: the 59th Street tram station elevator construction, island-wide seawall railing replacements, Southpoint Park seawall construction, repairs to the AVAC sanitation system, Sportspark and youth center renovations, Motorgate parking garage repairs, Blackwell and Al Lewis playgrounds renovations, and Octagon and Firefighters field improvements.

Motorgate

I recently received some questions from the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) about existing parking space and traffic striping issues in the Motorgate parking garage.

Although it has yet to be announced, RIOC has finalized a Request for Proposals to repair concrete spalls and expansion joints, re-waterproof all surfaces, and redo striping at the southern end of the garage facility.

Our Capital Planning and Projects team has reviewed the scope of work with the Motorgate engineering consultant. We expect to issue that RFP by April 30.

Upon the bid approval, by the RIOC Board of Directors, of the winning contractor, the work will commence on floors 3, 4, and 8, which is Phase 1 of the total project. The repairs will be conducted in two phases, as to not overly disrupt the garage’s ongoing operation. Each phase is estimated to cost about $5 million; the work duration for each phase will be shared once the contract has been awarded.
RIOC’s plan also includes new signage.

In the meantime, we’ve recently replaced and installed 13 new closed-circuit TV surveillance cameras at the garage to bolster our efforts, in addition to regular PSD patrols, to keep you and your parked vehicles secure.

Sportspark Renovation

RIRA also recently asked us to review their report and ideas for the Sportspark renovation project. While we have more plans to solicit community input on this project, we first should update you on the plan’s current state.

The first Sportspark RFP, set to be released by mid-June, is for design services and biddable documents only; not for physical renovation (that will be addressed in a subsequent RFP). Once we have a firm in place, then we will engage you, and the RIRA committee (and utilize our Cornell community study on possible programs) to receive your input and ideas on the renovation.

Members of our staff have reviewed the information RIRA provided, of which a majority involves facility concerns that we are aware of and agree should be addressed with the design.

We recognize RIRA is excited about the project and so are we. We look forward to working together. I will share additional updates as the project moves along.

Did you happen to notice the new outdoor basketball backboards and hoops installed this week at Capobianco Field, Blackwell Field and Sportspark?

HELIX Repair Update

The first lane demolition of the Helix is about 70 percent complete. Now uncovered we’ve found that the top of the structural slab is in much worse condition in some areas than we anticipated. That deterioration was caused by insufficient maintenance and inspection in addition to much heavier truck loads traveling the road than what the Helix was originally designed for.

We have also hired an additional traffic engineer to review our existing traffic control plan during the Helix construction and to present their findings and/or recommendations to the RIOC Board and community.

24/7 Ambulance and NYPD Patrol Vehicle

You should also note that RIOC Public Safety Department Chief Jack McManus has successfully lobbied the New York City Police Department and NYC Office of Emergency Management to station an NYPD patrol vehicle and FDNY ambulance on the Island 24 hours-a-day during the HELIX construction period meant to allay concerns about potential emergency response times due to Helix construction traffic.

When additional emergency response vehicles are dispatched to the Island, PSD is safely expediting their entry and exit by freezing all Helix traffic, in both directions, to accommodate those vehicles.

We also appreciate several island businesses – Gristedes, Coler Memorial Hospital, Cornell Tech and the Department of Environmental Protection – for their cooperation working with PSD in safely coordinating deliveries coming from oversize tractor trailers until after 3:30 p.m. every day.

Manhattan Tram Elevators

The permits for the Manhattan Tram Plaza elevator project were awarded earlier this month and construction work will begin soon. As I mentioned in my last column, two new aesthetically-improved glass elevators – that are more efficient and ADA accessible - are being built to replace the existing elevators.

The project – which we will execute with minimal impact on the Tram’s operation - is expected to last a year.

Radar Speed Signs

Radar speed signs, also known as driver feedback signs, are designed to slow down speeding drivers by alerting them of their, speed. They are being used across the country and in the past week, you might have noticed that two have been installed here on Roosevelt Island; one near Coler Memorial Hospital and the other near the Cornell Tech loop. The signs are mobile and can be moved to different locations throughout the Island as needed.

We remind everyone that the Island-wide speed limit is 15 miles per hour. Please slow down; speeding is hazardous to yourself, other motorists and pedestrians. Island speed limits will be monitored and enforced by the Public Safety Department.

Southtown 8 & 9, Rivercross Arbitration Settlement and Westview Ground Lease

RIOC’s Real Estate Development Advisory Committee met on Tuesday, April 3 to discuss all three of this agenda items. I know many of you anxiously await the details of the settlement and lease agreements of which I am not at liberty to currently discuss. I do encourage you to attend our next full RIOC board meeting Wednesday, April 18, at 5:30 p.m. in the Cultural Center Theatre.

Though its required environmental impact study is not yet complete, I thought I should share some additional details about the Southpark 8 and 9 residential towers, located immediately north of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge along Main Street on the island.

Building 8 will consist of a 21-story residential tower, 227-feet-tall with 341 affordable units.

Building 9 will consist of a 28-story, about 287-feet tall mixed-use building with 300 market-rate units and 7,000 square feet of commercial office space.

Building 8 is expected to be completed and operational by March 2020, while Building 9 is expected to be completed and operational by March 2022.

Youth Center Update

We’re making more changes at the Roosevelt Island Youth Center.

Our objective, since assuming management of the center’s operations March 5, is to develop the center, and its programming, into something that parents, students and staff could all enjoy.

Two weeks ago, RIOC posted new guidelines, which we intend to enforce, to keep the facility safe, supervised, alcohol and drug-free. Parents and older teens will no longer be able to roam the facility unsupervised; “sign-in” and “sign-out” and appropriate behavior policies have been drafted and will be enforced. I’ve linked the complete set of new rules to this letter and email. Please review these with your children, and explain that these changes should be viewed as improvements.

I am happy to announce that Erica Spencer-El, a long-time RIOC community relations manager has been promoted to Director of Community Affairs and the youth center will be one of her new management assignments, in addition to oversight of Community Relations and Island-wide events. More details on additional staff and programming additions, the scheduled renovation of the center and RIOC’s efforts to create a youth soccer program will be forthcoming.

Additionally, RIOC is proud to announce that we’ve waived all field usage fees to allow for the Child Center Beacon at 217 in partnership with the Roosevelt Island Center for Community Development and the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities to relaunch the Roosevelt Island Little League for ages 5 – 13 at no cost to participants. I encourage you to join and enjoy your child playing in the league’s 10-game season. Learn more and sign up here.

As we also announced previously, we are making island residents and organizations’ field and room requests priority when booking space for our outdoor fields and indoor facilities, according to availability. Capobianca Field will remain open year-round with no permit required. The 440 square-foot Lighthouse and 320 square-foot Blackwell rooms in the Cultural Center are also available free of charge with only a certificate of liability required to make a reservation. Please visit our website, rioc.ny.gov, to see availability for all our recreation and community spaces.

Beacon/Child Center

In response to several parents’ concerns about the Child Center Beacon program here on the Island, we recently invited the program’s senior vice president and the City of New York’s associate commissioner for Youth and Community Development (which funds the Beacon program) to meet with a small group of Roosevelt Island parents.

It was a positive meeting and our parents vented their frustrations about the new Beacon program. We discussed the timeline of the Beacon’s expanded programming including potential summer camps, improved parent/program staff communications, and staffing ratios, among other things. Another informational meeting will be scheduled to discuss their improvements by the end of this month.

Sign-up for the latest Roosevelt news advisories, upcoming meetings and facility availabilities by visiting our new website, rioc.ny.gov. And, remember I want to hear from you; email our PIO, alonza.robertson@RIOC.ny.gov, with your questions or concerns!

RIOC Seeking Owners Rep Consultant To Help With $33 Million Roosevelt Island Capital Improvement & Maintenance Projects Planned For Next 2 Years - Dad Asks RIOC To Start Improvements With Blackwell Park Sandbox

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) is about to begin 24 months of major infrastructure and maintenance projects.

Image Of Broken Seawall Railing Near Octagon Building From December 2017

According to RIOC Public Information Officer Alonza Robertson:

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation has an ambitious and aggressive $33 million plan to complete more than 30 capital improvement and maintenance projects during the next 12-24 months. These include the Helix repair, seawall railing replacements, bike ramp and lane construction, elevator and potential escalator repairs, Youth Center and SportsPark renovations, sidewalk, playing fields and playground improvements among others.

The projects are all in varying stages of concept, design and construction. RIOC's in-house project management team will be at capacity once two new full-time project managers and the Director of Asset Management come aboard later this month. But even with the new hires, additional resources will be required to achieve our goals. After careful evaluation, RIOC has decided to utilize consultants - via the recent RFP for Owner’s Representative Services for Capital Projects & Strategic Planning - to support the current demands for the following reasons:

1. RIOC anticipates that the workload will fluctuate significantly and staffing up for a peak demand will leave us with excess staff during low periods. A consultant will be able to accommodate this fluctuation and RIOC will benefit by only paying for the additional resources when they are required.
2. RIOC has a demand for proven consultants in managing multi-disciplined projects through design, regulatory and construction processes. Not all of RIOC’s planned projects require full-time consultants daily but they will require full-time involvement of specialists at varying intervals throughout each of the projects being considered.
3. The Owner’s Representative would assist in the regulatory process with private and public agencies, take an active role in the Design Process for projects, prepare and evaluate bid proposals, perform inspections, contract administration, and other related activities.
4. RIOC will benefit from the experience of the organizations or firms who have successfully completed similar projects throughout NYC.

RIOC is looking at the Owners Representative role as an extension of our existing team. We have no intention of reducing staffing, rather we are bolstering and supplementing our existing team to prepare for the increase volume of projects that are being undertaken.

Here's the RIOC Owners Rep for Capital Planning & Projects RFP.

During the February 7 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Common Council meeting Public Session, a Roosevelt Island Dad asked RIRA to support a request that RIOC make improvements to the Sandbox in Blackwell Park.

According to the Roosevelt Island Dad:

... The Sandbox is in disrepair for some time....

And:

... The level of sand has dwindled to an inch or so and the bottom tarp that is underneath the sandbox is visible.

Admittedly, there is no glass or hazards in it but it's not pleasant to be in.

I'd like to ask this group to support an idea of having it topped off with sand once a season....

... My request is that from time to time a dump truck of sand backs up and dumps a load of sand in the sandbox...

RIOC does not need an Owners Rep to help fix the Blackwell Park sandbox.

UPDATE 2/15:

That sandbox should be removed. For years parents have wondered how clean it is.

— Eric (@Eric11714) February 14, 2018

According to RIOC, the sandbox will be removed as part of an upgrade to the Blackwell Park playground equipment this spring. There will be no sandbox replacement.

New Roosevelt Island Tram Station Elevators And Winter Holiday Lights Installation Joint Marketing Agreement Among Items on RIOC Board Of Directors Meeting Thursday October 19 - Public Session Prior To Meeting Too

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors will meet Thursday, October 19 at the Cultural Center (548 Main Street). Among the items on the Agenda are construction of the long delayed new Roosevelt Island Tram Station elevators

  Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From CB 8

and a joint marketing campaign with Hudson Related Retail to install Winter Holiday Lights Display Decorations with the aim of attracting more shoppers to Main Street. According to the RIOC Agenda:

• 1. Authorization to Enter into Side Letter Agreement with Hudson Related Retail LLC for a Joint Marketing Campaign (Board Action Required) and
• 3. Authorization to Enter into Contract with Sea Crest Construction Corp. for Construction of the Elevator at the Manhattan Aerial Tramway Station (Board Action Required)

The construction of new Tram Station elevators by Sea Crest Construction is expected to take 1 year. (See RIOC memo below with more info).

RIOC and Hudson Related Retail selected Neave Decor to install the Roosevelt Island Winter Holiday lights.

Holiday Lights Image From Neave Decor

See RIOC memo below for more info.

Prior to the start of the RIOC Board meeting, there will be a public comment period. Sign up here to speak at the meeting.

Below is the RIOC October 19 Board of Directors meeting agenda:

Read more »

After Long Delays, Contractor Finally Selected For Second Avenue Roosevelt Island Tram Station Elevator Project Says RIOC President - Reviews Other RI Infrastructure Projects At CB 8 Meeting Last Night Too

The Manhattan Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island committee met last evening chaired by resident Sharon Pope. Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal spoke to about 15 residents, including several new residents, about current Roosevelt Island infrastructure projects.

Ms Rosenthal reported that negotiations with the contractor has finally been selected for the long delayed new Roosevelt Island Tram Station elevator project "have been completed". A date for construction work was not announced but Ms. Rosenthal said the work would take about a year. (see 6 minute 15 second mark of first video below)

Image of GC Eng Eng & Associates Tram Station Elevator Rendering From CB 8

Ms Rosenthal also reported on the:

• Start of Blackwell House Renovations,
• Youth Center Building renovation and Youth Center Operations RFP
• Tram Platform renovations - work will soon be done on South Cabin Platform, Work will begin October 16 on North Cabin platform. On schedule to be finished by end of year.
• Seawall railing will be replaced, permits obtained, contract awarded, work will begin soon.
• Fixing Motorgate Helix ramp - will always have one lane access,
• Ferry landing upland area improvements,
• Roosevelt Island Bridge Bike Ramp Engineering RFP to be issued,
• Southpoint Park Seawall Fix RFP,
• New Public Bathrooms At Firefighters Field 

Also:

• Way finding signage, Kiosks and visitor maps
• Safety Improvements to Al Lewis and Blackwell Park playgrounds, new floorings,
• Octagon Soccer Field Turf improvements, lighting repairs, bleachers, comfort station,
• Irrigation improvements for Pony Field,
• Sportspark use survey by Cornell Tech students - what to do with empty second floor, bathrooms, locker rooms,
• Invigorating Main Street - Rental price not the cause of vacant store - seeking ideas from residents,
• Impact of Cornell Tech- review of promises and obligations

And:

• Firefighters Field Nighttime Lighting as well as reserving playing fields for resident use.

The next meeting of the Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island committee is Thursday October 19 at the Cornell Tech Bloomberg Academic Center - you're invited.

UPDATE 4:18 PM - Correction - I was just advised by RIOC that the Tram Station Elevator contract was not awarded yet.

Roosevelt Island F Train Service To And From Manhattan This Weekend, E Train Too But No Tram Elevator Or Chairlift Working - Red Bus Shuttle To Manhattan Running

According to the MTA, there will be Roosevelt Island F Train service
 

to and from Manhattan this weekend. Also, there will be E Train Roosevelt Island train service to and from Manhattan as well:

E Trains run via the F in both directions between W 4 St and 21 St-Queensbridge

But, there will be no Roosevelt Island Tram elevator or chair lift working this weekend.

  Image of Out Of Service Tram Passenger Elevator and ADA Red Lift From May 29 2013

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Due to the ongoing Tram platform renovation project, the Tram Elevator and Chairlift on the Manhattan Platform will be temporarily out of service on Saturday, September 23rd and Sunday, September 24th. During this time, RIOC’s Transportation Department will provide shuttle bus service to Manhattan and R.I. departing from the Southwest side of 2nd Ave between 58th & 59th Street. Shuttles will leave on the hour from Roosevelt Island and on the half hour from Manhattan beginning at 11 AM. The last shuttle bus will depart from Manhattan at 7:30 PM.

Tram Elevator and Chairlift access on the Manhattan Platform will resume on Monday, September 25th.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

During the September 7 RIOC Board of Directors meeting (full video web cast of meeting here), RIOC President Susan Rosenthal reported on the Tram elevator and chair lift being out of service



this weekend.