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1. Is there a cost for the Red Bus?

No, the Red Bus is free.

2. Can I take strollers on the Red Bus?

Yes, but they must be closed on the bus upon the operator's request.

3. What is the cost for the MTA Bus?

The Q102 bus takes the MetroCard. Please check the mta.info website for current fare info.

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1. Does the Capital Planning & Projects Department perform the same duties as an Engineering Department?

Capital Planning & Projects, formerly known as the Engineering Department, performs similar duties to the Engineering Department.

Like the former Engineering Department CP&P continues to provide bid opportunities for major capital projects. The department will oversee and manage RIOC driven capital projects, but with a focus on design through planning, environmental, social, and economic analysis of the neighborhood as a whole.

2. Where do I submit my construction permit?

Contractors/Vendors that are performing work on Roosevelt Island must apply for a RIOC Construction Permit, which can be found here.

3. I am interested in a construction / consulting bid opportunity, what is the process?

If you are interested in any RFP posted by RIOC, please go to our RFP page.

4. Does the Capital Planning & Projects Department perform in-house design?

The department performs a hybrid of in-house and consulting design. Smaller projects are typically done in-house, while larger capital projects must go through the RFP/bid process.

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1. Are there currently any positions available?

All open positions are listed on the Careers page.

2. How do I apply for open positions?

Please email your resume to the Human Resources Department. Please list the position you are applying for.

3. Is the RIOC employee base unionized?

RIOC employs both union and non-union personnel. Union currently representing RIOC staff include: SEIU 32BJ, Teamsters Local 210 and PSOBA.

4. Are RIOC employees, employees of New York City?

No, RIOC is a Public Authority of the State of New York, and most RIOC employees are New York State Employees.

5. Does employment at RIOC require taking Civil Service exams?

No, as a Public Authority, RIOC is not part of the NYS Civil Service Employees Union, therefore, no Civil Service exams are required.

6. Does RIOC offer benefits?

Yes, most staff member have a wide variety of benefits to choose from. Please see the Benefits Information section on the Careers page.

7. Does RIOC employ Seasonal staff?

Yes, RIOC employs a number of seasonal staff members during the summer months each year. These seasonal employees work in a wide variety of capacities.

8. How do employees get to work on Roosevelt Island?

There are many modes of transportation used by staff members, including: subway (F line), NYC Ferry, Tram, or driving.

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1. What is the best way to contact RIOC?

Any questionsrelating to island matters can be emailed to the island.

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1. Is eating and drinking allowed in the Community Spaces? Can I have a catered event in either space?

Yes, RIOC approves catering, eating, and drinking in designated areas of both spaces. However, eating and drinking on the wood floors of either space is not allowed. Additionally, alcohol is not allowed in either space.

2. Are the Community Spaces ADA accessible?

Yes! They are ADA accessible.

3. Can I have a family gathering / party / shower at the Cultural Center or Good Shepherd?

Yes, groups of less than 100 people can be accommodated. Please see the food, drink, and alcohol guidelines above for clarification on what is allowed in the spaces for events.

4. Can I hang banners outside the Community Spaces to market or advertise my event?

Requests for advertising are evaluated on an individual basis. No permanent advertising will be allowed.

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1. What to do if my identity is stolen?

Contact the creditor with whom your name has been fraudulently used. Also notify the police.  

2. What to do if I am a victim of a crime?

Immediately call 911 or contact PSD at 212-832-4545.

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1. Where is the Motorgate Garage located?

It is accessible via the first right hand turn after coming across the Roosevelt Island Bridge and directly above the Gristedes supermarket.

2. Where can I park in the event of a snow Emergency?

There is no parking on Main Street in the event of a snow emergency. Vehicles must park in the Motorgate Garage.

3. What are Roosevelt Island’s street cleaning hours?

Every Monday and Thursday, 10 AM to 11:30 AM. 

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1. Where can I go to stay cool during a heat wave?

You can call PSD at 212-832-4545 for the available island cooling center locations and you can also check with Notify NYC for other locations across the NYC area.  

2. What should I do in case of a snow emergency or black out?

Have enough supplies that will last you for a few days, stay informed of updates on when the condition will be corrected.

3. What if Roosevelt Island is told to evacuate due to an emergency or disaster?

Roosevelt Island residents will be instructed to follow the NYC Office of Emergency Management evacuation protocol.

4. Where can I park my car during a snow emergency?

No vehicles will be allowed on the street during a snow emergency, therefore parking is available for R.I. residents in the Motorgate Parking Garage. For further info contact PSD at 212-832-4545.

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1. Can you pay for the Ferry with a MetroCard?

No, MetroCards are NOT accepted. There is a ticket machine on each ferry landing, or you can pay via the NYC Ferry app.

2. Can I take a bike on the Ferry?

Yes, but there is a $1 added fee and they must be stored as directed at the front of the Ferry.

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1. Can I picnic or grill on an outdoor field?

Grilling is only permitted in the designated areas in Octagon and Lighthouse Parks. Picnics are permitted. Patrons are expected to dispose of their trash responsibly.

2. Can I wear metal/plastic spiked cleats on grass fields? Turf fields?

Only plastic cleats are allowed on grass fields. Metal cleats are not allowed on any field or open space. Cleats of any kind, metal or plastic, are not allowed on turf fields. Only turf shoes are allowed on turf surfaces.

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1. Where can my production park?

Productions that have trailers and oversized vehicles (vehicles that cannot hold a single lane up/down the Roosevelt Island helix) must park at the East Coler Hospital lots located at 900 Main Street.  If your permitted location is elsewhere on the island, you should plan on stake bedding equipment to the site.  Crew parking is not permitted in these lots.  Crew vehicles must park at Motorgate. 

2. Can I film at FDR Four Freedoms Park?

FDR Four Freedoms Park is independently operated and has different filming/photography guidelines.  You can contact them here.

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1. Where can I find information if I am a vendor interested in doing business with RIOC, either as a supplier or contractor?

Please visit the Procurement page for more information.

2. How may I access RIOC’s audited financial statements, annual report, budget report and other available financial reports?

Please visit the Financial Reporting page for more information.

3. How may I apply for a RIOC Grant?

Please visit the RIOC Grants page for more information.

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1. Can I use a push cart or tent to sell food?

Mobile food vending requests in various capacities will be reviewed on an individual basis. The first step in securing a permit is to complete an application with all the proper documentation and submit a site proposal.

2. How long are the food vending permits? Can I purchase a permit for just a day?

Permits are available in daily or monthly increments. All permitted dates must be approved prior to the issuing of a permit.

3. Do I have to apply for a permit from Roosevelt Island if I already have a city wide vending permit?

Yes! Please complete an application.

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1. Who may apply for a grant?

Grants are open to registered 501(c)(3) applicants. For additional information, please view the Public Purpose Grant Procedures (PDF).

2. When will grant applications be available?

For specific information about the schedule of grants, or to be notified about upcoming grant opportunities please send an email here. Include the name of your organization and your contact information.

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1. Where can I find long term parking?

In the Motorgate Parking Garage, located at 688 Main Street.

2. What do I do if my vehicle is towed?

Please contact the Public Safety Department or the NYC Sheriffs Department.

3. What is the difference between regular holiday parking rules and major legal holiday parking rules?

On major legal holidays both metered parking and alternate side parking are suspended. On regular holidays only alternate side parking is suspended, while parking meters remain in effect.

4. What are the requirements for disabled motorists?

New York City issues two types of permits for citizens with disabilities, a New York State permit and a New York City permit. There are different eligibility requirements and different uses for these permits. The City permit can only be used for New York City on-street parking and the State Permit is used for designated parking spaces for people with disabilities. For more info visit the Department of Transportation.

5. What vehicles need a vehicle escort to drive on the island?

Escorts are necessary for any vehicle longer than 40 feet, wide loads, large construction vehicles, and any vehicle that cannot hold a single lane when utilizing the Roosevelt Island helix ramp.

6. Are there any specific times for vehicle escorts?

Vehicle escorts are not performed Monday through Friday between 7:30 AM and 9 AM or between 2 PM and 4 PM.

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1. Where are the barbecue grills located on the island?

Charcoal grills are located at Lighthouse Park and by the West Seawall near the Octagon building. All island grills are first come, first served. Personal or portable grills are prohibited! The only grills allowed for use are permanently installed grills found in these two locations. Users are expected to dispose of used charcoal remnants responsibly.

2. Can I have a wedding ceremony on the island?

Wedding ceremonies are permitted on the island and are evaluated on an individual basis. Please email the department for more information.  

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1. How do vendors learn about contracting opportunities with RIOC?

The Purchasing Department will typically contact vendors directly for the purpose of obtaining quotes. For larger contracts, in excess of $50,000, Request for Proposals (RFP) or bid announcements are posted on The New York State Contract Reporter website.
 
RIOC offers online registration that will send email alerts to vendors when RFPs or bid announcements are issued. View our purchasing web portal.

2. Is there a guide for doing business in New York?

Visit the business express website to learn about doing business in New York.

3. Is there a list of current RIOC RFPs?

Visit our Bids portal to see the list.

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1. Is there a lost and found?

Yes, please contact or visit the Public Safety Department for lost items. Make sure to bring valid ID to pick up property.

2. What time do school buses arrive on Roosevelt Island?

Buses arrive Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

3. Where can I park to drop off my child at school?

There is a designated area for student drop off and pick up in front of P.S / I.S 217, located at 645 Main Street.

4. Is there a NYPD precinct on Roosevelt Island?

No, Roosevelt Island is under the jurisdiction of the 114th Precinct, which is located in Astoria, Queens. For more info on the 114th Precinct, view its website.

5. How can I request a PSD Incident / Complaint Report?

Incident Reports can be requested online (PDF).

6. What assistance is there available for the homeless?

Learn about the assistance available.  

7. What are the Roosevelt Island Dog Policies?

We follow NYC Dog Policies. View the policy.

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1. Can I alter the race course for my event?

RIOC has evaluated numerous course options on the island and strives to keep them uniform for all events. In cases of course interruption (construction or unforeseen events) course alterations maybe discussed on an individual basis.

2. What is the maximum number of participants I can have at race event?

The number of registered participants should not exceed 1,000 for your event.

3. Does Roosevelt Island provide event parking?

We strongly encourage event participants to take public transportation. There is limited parking available at the Motorgate Garage.

4. Do we provide ambulance or EMT services?

No, event organizers must arrange for medical services.

5. Can we have amplified sound?

Amplified sound is permitted in Southpoint Park prior to, and after, your event.  

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1. How much does it cost to get tested?

Getting tested is free and no insurance is required.

2. Is pre-registration required?

Pre-registration is recommended but individuals that walk into the site may also register upon arrival.

3. What happens if I test positive?

It is important to follow the New York State Department of Health guidelines for testing positive which can be found at coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing

4. Can children be tested?

Yes. Individuals of any age may receive testing.

5. Should I get this test if I’m experiencing symptoms?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, it’s important to get tested and isolate until you know your results. Please visit the New York State Department of Health’s COVID-19 testing website for more information -- coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing

6. Should I get tested if I’ve already had COVID-19?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, it’s important to get tested and isolate until you know your results. Please visit the New York State Department of Health’s COVID-19 testing website for guidelines -- coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing

7. How long will the site provide testing?

The current site is a pop-up and full duration will be determined in the coming weeks.

8. What COVID-19 sanitizing protocols are in place?

The site will be sanitized in accordance with New York State Department of Health COVID-19 protocols. Additionally, each testing station will be individually sanitized by healthcare staff.

9. Is testing available only to residents of Roosevelt Island?

As this site is in support of the state’s initiative to create a COVID-19 rapid testing site network to smartly and safely reopen New York’s economy, testing is equally available to New York residents.

10. Are vaccinations offered at this site?

This is a COVID-19 rapid testing site. For information on COVID-19 vaccinations, please visit the New York State webpage dedicated to this information -- covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov

11. How accurate is a rapid test?

This testing site utilizes an FDA approved kit which has demonstrated a 97.1% sensitivity rate and a 98.5% specificity rate.

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1. I am interested in providing services / vending at a RIOC special event. Who should I contact?

Please email the Community Relations Department.

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1. I have a New York City Parks & Recreation membership, can I use that at the Sportspark?

No. The Sportspark Complex offers its own membership package. Find out more about our memberships click here

2. Where is Sportspark located?

Sportspark is located at: 

250 Main Street
New York, NY 10044

The complex is just south of Tramway Plaza, we are in between the tennis bubble and Cornell Tech.

3. How do I get to the Sportspark?

The Red Bus has a drop off at the East Entrance (Queens’s side) of the building, as well as the West Side (Manhattan side). Walking is also an option from all island transportation!

4. What is the holiday schedule?

We are closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. We also have special hours on the following days: Delayed Opening - Friday after Thanksgiving (building opens at 2pm), Early Closing - Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve (building closes at 2pm). 

5. Do I have to be a member to take classes?

No. We offer drop in rates for non-members on a per class basis.Click here for  Pool Information and Here for Gym Classes/ Schedule

6. What programs do you offer at the complex?

In the Sportspark Gym we offer a variety of programs including the following but not limited to:

• Zumba
• Yoga

In the Sportspark Pool we also host the following classes but are not limited to only these classes:

• Youth Swim Class- Splashers, Scooters, Movers, Gliders
• Adult Swim Class- Adult Learn to Swim, Master Swim, and Aquatic Fitness

*Please check program descriptions for more detailed  information click here 

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1. How do I access the gym?

Enter through the Westside (Manhattan Side) Entrance.

2. What type of activity is permitted in the gym?

Basketball, indoor soccer, floor hockey, volleyball, etc. *If you are unsure if we can accommodate for special events / specific programs please inquire with our permit department*

3. What do I need to bring with me when visiting the gym?

Please wear athletic sneakers, towel & a lock if choose to use a locker.

4. May I keep my personal items in the lockers overnight?

No. The lockers are for daily use only. All personal items must be removed at the end of each session.

5. Do you offer programming for the gym?

Yes, we offer publicly available yoga and zumba classes.

6. Is there a drop in fee for the gym programs?

Yes.There is a drop-in fee of $5 dollars per class.

7. Is there a membership for use of the gym?

No, currently we only offer a pool membership.

8. May I use the gym outside of programmed hours?

No, the gym is reserved for programming and permittees.

9. Is there parking available?

There is metered street parking available on the Westside (Manhattan Side) of the building. Please check at Motorgate Parking Garage (688 Main St) for more additional parking, since metered street parking is limited. 

10. Is the space available for non-athletic functions?

Yes, depending on the nature of the event and the schedule. Please check with the permit department

11. Can I bring food and drinks into the gym?

No. Food is not permitted on the gym floor. Sports drinks must have a cap on them at all times. We provide tables and chairs in the lobby area to accommodate visitors who want to eat or drink before entering the gym space.

12. Where should I submit my permit?

You should submit a permit through the permits department.

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1. How do I inquire about becoming an instructor?

View the available employment opportunities on our careers page.

2. How early can I sign up for a class?

Sign up for classes begins 2 to 3 weeks before the first class begins.

3. Is there a drop-in fee for swim programs?

Yes, please check which programs allow drop-in fees.

4. What age is considered a child?

We consider anyone 4 to 17 years of age a child.

5. What age is considered a senior?

We consider a person 65 years of age to be a senior.

6. May I drop my children off for open swim?

No, parental supervision is required.

7. What do I bring with me when applying for a pool membership?

Please bring a check / money order and a valid identification.

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1. How do I access the multipurpose room?

Enter through the Westside (Manhattan Side) Entrance.

2. What type of activity is permitted in the multipurpose room?

Permitted activities include:

• Dance classes
• Fitness classes
• Gymnastics
• Meetings
• Retreats
• Seminars
• Table tennis
• Yoga
• Zumba
• Other authorized events

3. What do I need to bring with me when visiting the multipurpose room?

Please bring sneakers, a towel & lock if choose to use a locker.

4. May I keep my personal items in the lockers overnight?

No. The lockers are for daily use only. All personal items must be removed at the end of each session.

5. Is there a membership for use of the multipurpose room?

No, currently we only offer a pool membership.

6. Is there a drop in fee for the table tennis program?

Yes, it costs $5.

7. May I use the multipurpose room outside of programmed hours?

No, the multipurpose room is reserved for programming and permittees.

8. Is there parking available?

There is metered street parking available.

9. Is there a table tennis instructor?

No we do not have an instructor. It’s first come first serve. Children must be supervised.

10. Can my child take a fitness class alone?

No, all participants must be 18 years of age unless accompanied by an adult.

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1. How do I become a lifeguard?

Check the careers page to see if lifeguard positions are available.

2. How do I access the pool?

Enter through the East Entrance (Queens side).

3. Is the Sportspark Pool Heated?

The Sportspark swimming pool temperature is regulated by our boiler systems. We strive to maintain a water temperature that satisfies all of our users. Users include infants and children, seniors, avid swimmers and a swim team. The pool water temperature range is 78 – 85 degrees.  

Attention: June 1, 2019 - In response to numerous complaints we have received over the past several weeks, Sportspark staff members have been actively exploring ways to maintain a consistent temperature both inside and outside the pool area. We take readings twice a day in an effort to keep the temperature consistent while we explore a permanent solution to this problem. We will continue to keep you informed of our progress and apologize for this temporary inconvenience.

4. What type of activity is permitted in the swimming pool?

We have pool lanes available for free swim, lap swim, and aquatics programs.

5. What do I need to bring with me when visiting the pool?

Please bring your own towel, goggles, swim cap, water shoes or sandals, and a lock if choose to use a locker.

6. May I keep my personal items in the lockers overnight?

No. The lockers are for daily use only. All personal items must be removed at the end of each session.

7. Is there a drop-in fee for open swim if I am not a member?

Yes, the cost is $5 per session.

8. If I purchase a drop-in ticket for the morning open swim, may I use it at night as well?

No, a drop-in ticket purchase is valid only for the session for which it is purchased.

9. What classifies someone as a senior?

A senior is someone 65 and older with valid ID.

10. May I swim in the pool outside of open swim hours?

No, open swim hours will be the only time designated for lap swim.

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1. What activities can be permitted in the gym?

The 8,000 square foot gym is an open space available for a multitude of uses, but is most commonly used for indoor soccer and basketball.

2. Are there locker rooms available?

Yes, but the user must provide their own lock, and locker contents must be removed at the end of each visit.

3. Does RIOC provide or sell locks, swim caps or other equipment?

We advise all users to bring any required equipment with them.

4. Where can find more information about RIOC sponsored fitness and pool classes?

You can find information on the Sportspark Programs & Memberships Page.

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1. Is there a schedule available for MTA Bus/Train times?

Yes, visit the MTA website to learn more.

2. How do I find out about F Train service interruptions?

To receive information on specific MTA service disruptions, read about MTA Alerts.

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1. How do I pay to board the Tram?

The Tram takes the MetroCard, which can be purchased from machines located at either Tram Station.

2. Do you have to pay for the Tram each way?

Yes, you must pay each way (two MetroCard fares).

3. Does the Tram take transfers?

Yes, you can transfer from the bus or subway via MetroCard.

4. Where is Tramway located in Manhattan?

The Tramway is located on 2nd Avenue, between 59th Street and 60th Street.