RIOC Takes Steps to Enhance Seawall Safety Around Roosevelt Island
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has taken steps to improve the safety of island residents and visitors by installing life ring stations at 11 strategic locations around the Roosevelt Island coastline. Each station includes a mounted cabinet with a throwable life ring that can be quickly accessed if someone enters the East River and needs immediate help.
Roosevelt Island, NY – July 17, 2025 – The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has taken steps to improve the safety of island residents and visitors by installing life ring stations at 11 strategic locations around the Roosevelt Island coastline. Each station includes a mounted cabinet with a throwable life ring that can be quickly accessed if someone enters the East River and needs immediate help.
RIOC has also added additional signage in high-traffic zones along the coastline, warning people never to enter the water, which is extremely dangerous and can quickly lead to loss of life.
“Roosevelt Island has beautiful coastlines enjoyed by thousands of residents and hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Though incidents of people entering the water are rare, they have the potential to end in tragedy. Island residents know how treacherous the East River can be, but visitors may not be as familiar with the dangers it poses—so these enhancements will add an additional layer of safety to the coastline,” said RIOC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Mary Cunneen. “Our Operations and Public Safety Department teams surveyed the island to identify key locations where these safety stations would be especially helpful, including near schools, playgrounds, and popular fields close to the seawall. Now, if someone does not heed the warnings and enters the water, a life ring can be thrown to them quickly by any passerby—potentially saving a life.”
The East River is known for its powerful currents, particularly around Roosevelt Island. Tidal currents often reach 5 knots and change direction throughout the day. The river is also heavily trafficked by commercial tugboats, barges, ferries, yachts, and other vessels, making it even more hazardous for anyone who enters. These added safety measures come on the heels of a tragic incident in May, when a young woman visiting the island passed away after entering the water and being swept away by the tide.
The new life ring stations are located at:
• The Southpoint Park Pier (West side)
• The East Seawall across from Strecker Lab in Southpoint Park
• The East Seawall across from Cornell Tech’s Tata Center
• The West Seawall across from Sportspark
• Eleanor’s Pier
• The East Seawall next to Blackwell Park
• Viewing platform behind PS/IS 217
• The East Seawall behind Motorgate Garage
• The West Seawall near McManus Field
• The East Seawall near the tennis courts
• Lighthouse Park (East side)
About the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC):
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) was created in 1984 by the State of New York as a public benefit corporation with a mission to plan, design, develop, operate, and maintain Roosevelt Island. With a focus on innovative and environmentally friendly solutions, RIOC is committed to providing services that enhance the island's residential community. RIOC manages the island’s roads, parks, buildings, sports facility, and public transportation—including the iconic aerial tramway. Additionally, RIOC operates a Public Safety Department that helps maintain a safe and secure environment for residents, employees, business owners, and visitors.
Media Contact:
Bryant Daniels
Director of Communications & Community Affairs
Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC)
426 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044
212-832-4540 (o)|
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