Illegal drug use wasn’t a big concern in the Roosevelt Island subway. Overcrowding – now relieved by the pandemic – filth and homelessness made more noise. But now, the homeless wave that never quit, despite the Mayor’s and the MTA’s promises, appears to have brought along a friend. Apparent open illegal drug use is a regular feature in the local subway station.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
From Homeless to Homeless and Addicted
Homelessness, over the last twenty years, has been New York City’s worst preventable tragedy. In spite of endless promises and relatively easy solutions, mayor after mayor failed at making a serious dent. Tens of thousands are homeless, and many still take shelter in subway cars and stations.
Drug abuse is a major factor in homelessness. In fact, drug abuse is one of the leading causes of homelessness. Many people become homeless after losing their jobs and/or homes because of their addiction to drugs. Drug abuse can also lead to criminal activity, which can further contribute to homelessness.
But Has The Homeless Tide Brought Illegal Drug Use To Roosevelt Island?
One local resident says it has and provided The Daily with photos that appear to prove it. Our reader, who prefers remaining anonymous shared this photo.
Along the right side of the photo, a man seated on a folding chair appears to prepare a syringe.
According to some sources, 38% of homeless individuals are alcoholics, and 26% abuse narcotics.
Banyan Treatment Centers
The open illegal drug use did not catch the attention of the local police. It was still going strong a month later.
This week, a hooded individual, an apparent syringe in hand, may be injecting himself in the lower leg while a friend stretches out behind.
The Broader View
Just as important as recognizing drug addiction as a disease is seeing official neglect as a catastrophic failure of will and leadership. The problem grows because no one in authority does enough about it, although lip service is plentiful.
Some potential hazards of being in an area with illegal drug use in public include exposure to dangerous chemicals and pollutants, violence and infectious diseases. Illegally manufactured drugs may be contaminated with toxic chemicals, and users may leave behind used needles or other drug paraphernalia that spread disease.
Drug dealing and use can also lead to violence, as rival dealers or users fight over territory or drugs. Additionally, children may be lured into trying drugs by dealers who offer free samples.
How can you protect yourself?
If you live in or visit an area where illegal drugs are used, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. Avoid contact with used needles or other drug paraphernalia. Keep an eye out for signs of violence and avoid areas where drug dealing or use is taking place, although that’s hardly possible where people rely on the subway while that’s where the drugs are.
Talk to your children about the dangers of drug use and keep them away from areas where drugs are used, if you can.
Finally, if you suspect someone is selling or using drugs in your area, contact the police.
More from the Roosevelt Island Daily News
- Legionella Found in West Side Building as East Side Cluster Is InvestigatedDiscover how Roosevelt Island responds to citywide news and community concerns, from public safety to local events, with steady routines and shared care.
- How Communities Adapt Through Summer Events and Everyday ChangeDiscover weekly community moments and neighborhood events on Roosevelt Island, from public safety stories and cultural festivals to changes in local leadership and city life.
- New City Rules Bring Everyday Changes for New YorkersSee how new city rules and small changes shape Roosevelt Island life this summer. From junk fee crackdowns to neighborhood health updates and local wins, discover the practical shifts touching daily routines.
- Queens This Week: Summer Events, Faster Buses and Housing PressureA week in the rhythm of Roosevelt Island brings highlights from city stories—including public safety, community events, transit updates, and local culture—that shape life on the Island and nearby Queens.
- Queens Communities Respond to Public Safety, Summer Programs and Humanitarian NeedExplore how steadiness and support connect Roosevelt Island and Queens communities during recent local incidents, summer programs, and shared acts of care.
Stack Work Advances While Answers Do Not
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.
2 COMMENTS