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Roosevelt Island History
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The Beginning
Roosevelt Island, located between Manhattan and Queens in the East River, has undergone numerous changes both in name and use and been passed to numerous owners in its recent history.
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First Development
By 1823 New York City had become a bustling trade hub and the country's largest city. To combat the rising rates of crime, poverty, and general threats to public health, the city began purchasing the islands surrounding Manhattan for the construction of institutions for rehabilitation.
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Decline & Revitalization
As the island's institutions became abandoned toward the end of the 19th century, the population declined.
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Redevelopment
The redevelopment of Roosevelt Island followed the revitalization and the first residential complex, Island House, opened in 1975.
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Status & Jurisdiction
Roosevelt Island, according to courts, election boards, and the post office, is within the jurisdiction of Manhattan.