Adorned, almost as if by a brushstroke, the art of the Smallpox Hospital, joins nature and design.

By David Stone

The Roosevelt Island Daily News

When James Renwick designed his second building on Blackwell’s Island, it’s unlikely that he foresaw a future where resilient nature would adorn it this way.

At the height of spring, rich green tones warmly accent the historic site.

Note: fans of the Smallpox hospital can now get a rare look inside here.

More from the Roosevelt Island Daily

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  Photo Spots on Roosevelt Island: Capture NYC’s Beauty
  From the Roosevelt Island Tramway to Four Freedoms Park, there are many photo spots on Roosevelt Island that capture NYC’s beauty and history.
• 
  With the Window Project, RIVAA Celebrates “the creative spirit of the Island.”
  The Window Project showcases RIVAA artists’ creativity, enhancing Roosevelt Island’s Main Street. This vibrant tribute celebrates local art and fulfills the community’s commitment to creativity.
• 
  Finding Treasure on Roosevelt Island: FDR Four Freedoms State Park
  Four Freedoms Park symbolizes freedom’s importance, reminding us to cherish expression, diversity, and peace while envisioning a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
• 
  Rescuing Rosie. Roosevelt Island Wild Turkey Found Safe and Sound
  Roosevelt Island residents formed a wild turkey rescue team, successfully springing Rosie from subway captivity. Who knew turkey rescues required such coordination? Flap flap hooray!
• 
  Rosie trapped in the subway station – Does anyone know what happened to her?
  Rosie, the beloved wild turkey of Roosevelt Island, became trapped in the subway station, raising concerns about her safety. Many remain worried and seek updates on her whereabouts.

Stack Work Advances While Answers Do Not

HPD told the CAG there was no projected start date and that five business days’ notice would be given. Work on the eastern smokestack began six days later.

Theo Gobblevelt Jul 3, 2026

On June 17 and 18, HPD told the first meeting of the Roosevelt Island Steam Plant Demolition Community Advisory Group that smokestack demolition had no projected start date. Residents and the CAG would receive at least five business days’ advance notice once a date was set. Scaffolding around the stacks could not proceed until soil removal and backfill were complete and the area stabilized.

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