The 4th of July, 2022, on Roosevelt Island was as peaceful — pre-fireworks — as it was sunny and warm. Advance planning paid off with previous years’ problems never developing.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Kids of all ages anticipate the rockets red glare to come after nightfall, but for most, the holiday is a time to relax and enjoy the pleasures of summer.
But in the background, a working force made it possible.
NYPD and RIOC‘s Public Safety Department did not take this day off. They were out in force. Not only was there no violence, but traffic flowed and visitors were moved as efficiently as possible on public transit.
In previous years, traffic on Vernon Avenue and connecting streets backed up for as much as a mile through Astoria. But the benefits of pre-planning and coordination kept jams at a minimum.
Late in the afternoon, PSD remained on its feet in the sun. A lieutenant (white shirt) filtered vehicles driving onto Roosevelt Island. It was smooth as was entry to Motorgate.
Meanwhile on Main Street…
Traffic other than emergency vehicles and Red Buses were turned back from Main Street, allowed north of the Roosevelt Island Bridge Helix only.
As an added bonus, with rare exceptions, Red Bus passengers respected each other with face masks that are disappearing on subways and MTA buses.
All in all, it was a good day to be on Roosevelt Island and to be a Roosevelt Islander. Thousands came, but thanks to thoughtful planning and calm execution, a lot of cheer flowed and disruptions were at a minimum.
Also from the Roosevelt Island Daily News
- How Roosevelt Island’s Steady Daily Life Connects With City ChangesExplore how Roosevelt Island’s steady daily life connects with city changes, from safety incidents to neighborhood campaigns, and how island routines shape our shared urban rhythms.
- Mother’s Day Weekend on Roosevelt Island: Warming Up to CommunityCelebrate community during Mother’s Day weekend on Roosevelt Island. Discover how neighbors gather, new spots like Citarella, and the warmth of the season.
- How Queens News and Community Events Influence Roosevelt Island Daily LifeSee how Queens news and community events influence Roosevelt Island daily life, touching on public safety, housing changes, and neighborhood connections.
- June News Highlights: Roosevelt Island and Queens Community UpdatesGet the latest June news highlights from Roosevelt Island and Queens, including community updates, local safety, rent discussions, transit negotiations, and celebrations.
- Community Safety and Resilience on Roosevelt Island and BeyondCommunity safety and resilience on Roosevelt Island and beyond are reflected in how our neighbors, institutions, and leaders quietly respond to challenges and sustain local life.
You Can FOIL* It
On April 15, at the Steam Plant Demolition Town Hall, a simple exchange revealed something far more consequential than anything formally presented that evening.
