The mask mandate ends as Governor Hochul made its removal effective “immediately.” But because of lax enforcement, it was already over weeks ago in many places. Only RIOC’s Public Safety Department continued protecting the community throughout. Some expressed hope that the effort continues.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
“Will they all keep masks on hand if only ‘optional?'” one resident wondered.
Typically, although they bulked up their executive staff with a new $140K communications leader, RIOC released not a word about the change. And as of the late afternoon, the big sign outside the Tram Plaza still suggested mask wearing at all times.
That’s not a surprise because bunkered President/CEO Shelton J. Haynes has displayed his impressive invisibility act on the topic since taking office.
But as the Mask Mandate Ends, PSD Deserves a Round of Applause
On Trams and Red Buses, Public Safety Officers along with Operators and Drivers have enforced the mandate. They handed out countless free face masks to clueless tourists and selfish bastards alike.
Compare PSD’s due diligence with the embarrassing performance of NYPD officers not only failing to enforce the mandate at all or even comply with it. Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams talked big about it but did nothing to get the cops on the same page. For them, it was all PR and no action.
As the mask mandate ends, thank Chief Kevin Brown for setting an example. His department helped countless riders from getting sick, maybe even from dying.
We are grateful.
Unequal Bargains
On June 18, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation’s Real Estate Development Advisory Committee gathered to discuss ground leases, the master retail lease, and the ten additional years being offered under the Island’s master lease. Howard L. Polivy, the committee’s chair, opened the meeting as a longtime host shows guests through a familiar house, pointing out the furniture as if it had never moved an inch.
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