“RIOC is putting together its next community working group, made up of Island residents and RIOC personnel, to discuss the ongoing roadways project along Main Street.” – RIOC Advisory.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
The Working Group Initiative
Earlier this year, RIOC’s interim leadership pulled together a joint group of Roosevelt Islanders and RIOC managers. The topic was The Tram and what to do about it as cherry blossom season approached. Although it was already too late for meaningful changes, residents turned out online in force. Now, RIOC hopes for the same enthusiasm and participation as it tackles the mess that’s become of Main Street.
Representing RIOC for the online meeting will be Acting Chief Operating Officer Mary Cunneen, Community Relations Manager Bryant Daniels plus Public Safety representatives.
“As many have noticed, driving down Main Street is hardly a ‘smooth ride,” RIOC’s Advisory said. “The road, which is still made up of z-bricks in large sections, is bumpy, uneven, and difficult for both motorists and pedestrians to safely navigate, especially at the crosswalks.
“What’s more, signage around the island can be difficult to understand in some places and contradictory in others, further compounding problems for travelers.
“This working group will hear plans about ways to address the issues plaguing Main Street and offer recommendations and feedback to RIOC on managing the overall project, currently scheduled for two phases of work.”
But Will They Listen and Respond?
The challenge here for RIOC is proving that working group meetings are meaningful. That is, does the state agency absorb the input from residents? Or is this just stress relief with no intention of changing anything?
At the earlier Tram Working Group, RIOC got an earful and, for all intents, bounced back a resounding “No!” This time, they’ve got something to prove: their good intentions.
When, Where and What?
“The first meeting of the roadways working group will be on Tuesday, August 13thand will meet online via Teams (no Microsoft account necessary to participate).”
If you are interested in participating, please fill-out the form at this link: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=6rhs9AB5EE2M64Dowcge5zeyV2Yq_RBJqztAWTxM7HhUME5SV1RTWVJDT05IWEI0TlZYTVhLTFFLNS4u
“This group is a wonderful way for Roosevelt Island residents to get involved and have their ideas heard and discussed with fellow island stakeholders and RIOC,” the Advisory said.
Adding, “We look forward to your participation and can’t wait to hear your feedback!”
When Representation Was the Promise
There was a time when representation felt like the answer.
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