By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily
Friends, change is in the air for our little slice of the East River. The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has announced that B.J. Jones will be stepping in as our new President and Chief Executive Officer this September, bringing with him more than three decades of public service and a vision for our community’s next chapter.
Who Is B.J. Jones?
If the name sounds familiar, you might remember him from his tenure as President & CEO of the Battery Park City Authority. With over 30 years in city and state government, including 22 years in senior roles with NYC agencies, Jones has built a career on community-driven development and smart, sustainable planning.
In his own words:
“I’m grateful to Governor Hochul and the Board of Directors for this incredible opportunity. I’m looking forward to joining RIOC’s talented team, engaging with the community, and partnering with local organizations to help shape the island’s next chapter.”
Why It Matters for Roosevelt Island
Leadership transitions are always moments of reflection and anticipation. Jones will be taking the helm from Shelton J. Haynes, who has served as RIOC’s President & CEO since March 2021.
As our island continues to grow, whether it’s upgrading public spaces, expanding cultural programming, or navigating new development, Jones’ leadership will help shape how we balance progress with our unique sense of place.
Support from the State
RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal, voiced her confidence:
“There is no doubt that Roosevelt Island will be in good hands with B.J. Jones at the helm… the right person to lead RIOC into a new era of innovation while staying true to its mission of responsible, community-focused development.”
What’s Next
The formal appointment is set for September 2025 at the RIOC Board of Directors meeting. In the weeks ahead, we can expect Jones to introduce himself to residents, attend community events, and share more about his plans for the island’s future.
So, neighbors, keep an eye out, you might just bump into our new CEO at Blackwell Plaza, grabbing a coffee on Main Street, or taking in the view from Southpoint Park. And when you do, give him a warm Roosevelt Island welcome.
See the full announcement from RIOC here.
The Line That Didn’t Land
I stood in the back of Good Shepherd Chapel on the evening of April 15, 2026, at the Steam Plant Demolition Town Hall, watching people adjust scarves and jackets before the meeting began. Benjamin Jones, President and CEO of RIOC, thanked us for attending and, without a pause, said he was “pleased to host tonight’s town hall on the city’s demolition of its steam plant.” The demolition, in other words, was not up for discussion.
