An Oasis For New York
History of Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island is a 2-mile-long island in New York City that was once used to house several hospitals and prisons in the 19th century. As highlighted by the famous journalist Nellie Bly, Roosevelt Island, formerly Blackwell Island, was once a place of torture for women and anyone seeking asylum there. There were ice baths, electric shock therapy, forced drugging, and even bloodletting for patients – and these were considered proper medical practices at the time.
How Roosevelt Island Has Transformed
Despite the disturbing history, the State of New York established Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) in 1984 to design, operate, develop, and maintain the island. RIOC further maintains the island’s roads, parks, sports facilities, and buildings. Under the leadership of acting President and CEO Shelton J. Haynes and legal advice from Gretchen Robinson, Roosevelt Island has experienced tremendous advancements in recent history.
Roosevelt Island has become a residential community with parks, landmarks, and family-friendly events. Recently, Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation designed a new entrance pavilion that serves as a concession stand, a public welcome station, and park storage. The primary aim is to transform unevenly shaped structures, replacing them with modern and accessible artful structures that identify with the community and incorporating modern technology to improve accessibility.
Gretchen K. Robinson Legal Expertise Is Improving Roosevelt Island
Gretchen Robinson has proved to be a valuable member of the RIOC team; she brought substantial experience to RIOC, having worked as a lawyer, conducted administrative trials, and served as Senior Counsel to the Empire State Development Corporation. She is also a dedicated individual who believes in success and working together as a team to achieve RIOC objectives and create a perfect environment for everyone on Roosevelt Island.
Gretchen K. Robinson’s policy guidance has seen RIOC establish public-purpose funds that support education programs, cultural enrichment programs, and environmental improvements across the island. These programs have improved the island, creating avenues for persons with disability and creating gardening and nutritional classes for older adults. Additionally, a main street theatre provides internship and scholarship opportunities for needy people.