The announcement, canceling weekend RIOC Tram shuttle buses, was cold and calculating, the bad news tucked in at the very last.
by David Stone
In an act that may violate ADA regulations, RIOC moved yesterday, January 21st, to discontinue Tram shuttle bus service on weekends and holidays. Because of the most recent of many breakdowns in elevator service at the 2nd Avenue Tram Plaza, physically challenged users are unable to enter or exit the cabins.
As a remedy, RIOC provides red bus shuttle services during limited hours, which itself might be a violation. But now, even that’s cut back. And worse yet, RIOC makes the cut without the hint of apology or explanation.
The state agency’s disconnect with the community is as clear as ever.
In general, the Americans with Disabilities act requires public and private entities to offer services to the disabled that are the equal of those offered everyone else. But RIOC’s action falls far short.
RIOC Tram shuttle buses verbatim announcement in all its thickheadedness…
Please be advised that the Manhattan Tram station elevator remains out of service until further notice. The Red Bus is providing special shuttle service to and from Manhattan for those with limited mobility. Schedule information is below:
Roosevelt Island to Manhattan
Departs hourly from the Tram, 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 Ave., between 58th & 59th Streets and will make all southbound local Red Bus stops (starting with 591 Main St.) to the Tram. The last trip will depart Manhattan at 7:30 PM.
Please note, there is no shuttle bus service from 3 PM – 4 PM daily.
Weekend and Holiday Service
The Tram Shuttle will run Monday to Friday until further notice. No weekend or holiday service.
Thank you for your patience.
RIOC failed to provide any estimate of when the elevator might return to service.
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