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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. Is the Sportspark Pool Heated?

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.  

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. What classifies someone as a senior?

A senior is someone 65 and older with valid ID.

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1. How do I inquire about becoming an instructor?

View the available employment opportunities on our careers page.

You can send resumes to sportsparkstaffing@RIOC.ny.gov

2. Do residents of Roosevelt Island get discounted pricing?

Absolutely! Residents of Roosevelt Island enjoy a $74 discount off their adult membership for a total price of $125/month. All non-residents will be charged the full $199/month rate for an adult membership. All membership pricing already includes tax. 

3. How will you verify residency status?

To qualify, Resident Adults must submit proof of identity/age AND Roosevelt Island residency:

1. Proof of identity: State license or photo ID with name matching the proof of residency.
2. Proof of residency: Lease, Rent Bill, or Utility Bill with a Roosevelt Island address and name matching the proof of identity. (Proof must be date within 3 months of submission)

4. Do you offer any senior discounts or promotions?

 

We offer reduced pricing of $99/month for seniors aged 65+ and $50/month for teens aged 15-17. 

5. Can I combine a family into one membership?

 

If you would like to add children to your account, you may do so at a rate of $25/month per child up to the age of 14. 

 

Children between the ages of 15-17 are eligible only for a teen membership at a rate of $50/month. 

6. How do I cancel my membership renewal?

Memberships may be cancelled with 30 days’ notice either via email, phone, or in person with Sportspark management.

7. Is there a daily drop-in fee?

We do allow drop-ins at a rate of $35.00 per day. 

 

8. Can I bring a guest?

1. Qualifying members receive 2 ADULT guest passes and 2 CHILD guest passes per month, for a total of 4 passes per month. Guest passes are not transferable, cannot be combined, and do not accrue from one month to the next.

9. Will I have to renew my membership myself every month, or does Sportspark do it for me?

Members who signed up using a credit card, debit card, or banking information will have that information stored on file. All memberships renewals will be billed automatically on 1st of every month to the billing information that was provided at the time of sign up. 

Members who signed up in person with cash or a check payment will have to renew their membership in person no less than 7 business days prior to the expiration date of the membership. 

If any check or credit card charge payable to RIOC is not honored, Management will assess a $25 charge for each check and credit card rejected and collects the current and past-due balance in any subsequent month. 

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1. What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept most forms of payment, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, cash, and checks. 

2. How do I permit space for an event?

 

To permit a space within Sportspark, you must contact the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department (PSD) and follow their instructions. 

 

You may reach the PSD via the below routes: 

• Website: RIOC Permits 

• Email: wanda.coleman@rioc.ny.gov / stephanie.patino@rioc.ny.gov 

• Phone: 212-832-4545 

• In Person: PSD Headquarters, 550 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044 

3. 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. 

4. 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

5. 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.

6. Where should I submit my permit?

You should submit a permit through the permits department.

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1. How do I access the group fitness studio?

Enter through the Westside (Manhattan Side) Entrance. 

2. What type of activity is permitted in the group fitness studio?

Permitted activities include:

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

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1. Does Sportspark provide locks, goggles, and swim caps?

Although we encourage everyone to bring a lock to secure their belongings during their stay with us, we do sell locks, goggles, and swim caps. These items can be purchased at our West Side front desk.  

2. How big is the fitness center?

Our fitness center measures over 2,300 square feet and is split into two separate rooms, with one room exclusively designed as a weight room. The fitness center will have a designated stretch area, Star-Trac cardio equipment, hoist plate loaded strength machines, two power racks w/ Olympic platforms, and many free weights. 

3. What is there to do in the recreational room?

Our recreational room is equipped with a premium flat screen television, lounge seating, an air hockey table, pool table, and regulation size ping pong tables. In addition, the recreational room has full size snack and soda machines.  

4. How many hoops are in the basketball gym?

Our newly installed basketball gym measures over 8,000 square feet and features premium hardwood flooring, with 2 primary hoops and four side hoops for additional play. All our hoops can be mechanically retracted via a remote control in just seconds.  

 

In addition, the basketball gym has retractable bleachers that can seat up to 250 spectators! 

5. Do you offer open swimming or circle swimming/lap swimming?

Absolutely! We ensure most of our pool time is dedicated to providing open swimming to our members, drop-ins, and guests. During open swim, you can choose to either swim in a leisure lane or circle swim in a lap swimming lane.  

 

How many swimmers do you allow in one lane? 

 

Each lane can hold a maximum of 7 swimmers.  

6. How big is the swimming pool?

Our swimming pool area measures over 7,200 square feet and is roughly ½ the size of an Olympic swimming pool. The pool dimensions measure 75 feet long and 45 feet wide and has 6 swimming lanes. The pool depth ranges from 3.5 feet to 8.5 deep. 

7. 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 volleyball,  indoor soccer, and basketball.

8. 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.

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1. Is there an age limit for the fitness center?

 

The fitness center is available to members and guests aged 15+. 

2. Who needs to be supervised at Sportspark?

 

All youth aged 14 and under must be actively supervised by a parent or guardian at Sportspark. 
 

Teens aged 15-17 are not required to be actively supervised by a parent/guardian in the facility, but their membership application will require a parent/guardian’s review, approval, and signature. 

3. What is the Sportspark?

Owned and operated by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, Sportspark is a 44,300 square foot athletic complex with an NBA sized basketball court, ½ sized Olympic swimming pool, fitness center complete with a weight room, recreational room with several tabletop games and lounge-style seating, and a group fitness studio.  

4. Where is Sportspark located?

Sportspark is located at: 

250 Main Street
New York, NY 10044

Sportspark is located on the Southern end of Roosevelt Island, on the East River between Manhattan and Queens. You can find us nestled in between the white tennis dome and the Cornell Tech campus. Click on the Google Maps link here for more. 

 

5. How can I get to Sportspark?

Sportspark is accessible by the below methods: 

• Car:     Driving over the Roosevelt Island Bridge and heading south on Main Street. 
• Bus:    Take the Q102 to the Roosevelt Island Tram Stop and walk south. You may also take the free local Red Bus (available only on Roosevelt Island) south and get off at the Sportspark stop 
• Train:     Take the F-train to the Roosevelt Island Subway station and walk south. 
• Ferry:     Take the NYC Ferry to the Roosevelt Island Ferry Landing and walk south. 
• Tram:     Take the Roosevelt Island Tram, located at 63rd street and 2nd Avenue in Manhattan, and walk south. 
• Bike:    Bike via Vernon Blvd over the Roosevelt Island Bridge and head south on Main Street. 

You can find more information about Transportation to, in and around Roosevelt Island by clicking the link Here.

 

6. Is there parking available?

The roads surrounding Sportspark consist of metered public parking, Sportspark does not own or operate any parking lot nearby. 

 

If you prefer to park your vehicle in a parking lot, there is a 7-floor metered parking garage far north of Sportspark, located at 688 Main Street. 

 

To enter, when driving towards Roosevelt Island on the Roosevelt Island Bridge, make the first right turn off the bridge. The entrance will land you on the 4th Floor of the garage.

7. What are your regular hours?

Monday thru Friday: 6:30AM – 9PM 

Saturday thru Sunday: 7AM – 7PM 

*Pool closes 15 minutes prior to facility closing time 

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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.