A new secret project started this week by RIOC stirs apprehension, keeping the last one in mind. Is the super secret state agency taking over even more of Blackwell House’s surrounding area?
By David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Last spring under the guidance of (fill in the blanks), RIOC deemed it wise seizing Blackwell House for executive office space. That followed residents coughing up millions for restoring it as an historic location, drawing visitors.
And soon, their brain trust decided that seizing four prime spaces of precious parking spots across the street was wise. Those became the New York State Shelton J. Haynes Parking Area because the boss and his assistant shouldn’t walk too far or ride a Red Bus for work.
Fortunately, though, while RIOC’s Project Tracker is hopelessly out of date, the not so new secret project shows up on page 2. We think.
If it’s the Blackwell House Plaza Pavers Project as listed, RIOC plans on putting over a million dollars into replacing the aging pavers.
But since it’s listed as having a completion date almost two years ago, it’s no more than a well informed guess until RIOC’s crack Communications Team gets around to an announcement.
More from the Roosevelt Island Daily
- What’s New Across Western Queens: Safety, Community, and Spring at Our DoorstepExplore what’s new across Western Queens this week, including safety updates, casino developments, real estate, and local dining—news that shapes Roosevelt Island life.
- A Full Week Across the River: How Roosevelt Island and Queens Lives IntersectA full week across the river shows how life on Roosevelt Island connects with Queens—covering public safety, legal updates, G train disruptions, and neighborhood events.
- Roosevelt Island Weekly Recap: Community Life, Local News, and Everyday ConnectionsOur Roosevelt Island weekly recap covers local news, community events, and the threads of daily life connecting neighbors on and off the island.
- Queens News Highlights and Roosevelt Island Community ConnectionsExplore the week’s Queens news highlights and Roosevelt Island community connections, from public safety to housing, historic places, and local events.
- How Queens News Shapes Life on Roosevelt Island This WeekExplore how Queens news shapes life on Roosevelt Island, from major fire responses to local court cases and housing initiatives, reflecting the rhythms and routines of our shared city life.
Rivercross and the Quiet Green Light
Rivercross privatization was enabled in 2010. This matters now because the same governance structures that allowed Rivercross to privatize without formal conflict controls are still in place. The same public authority oversees land leases, settlements, and redevelopment decisions that affect every resident on Roosevelt Island today.
