Residents of Roosevelt Island are expressing frustration over increased tram wait times due to a surge in tourist traffic, which has led to delays of up to 45 minutes during peak hours. Local leaders, including Paul Crichler from the Manhattan Community Board 8, acknowledge that while tourists are welcome, the heavy influx is overwhelming the transport system.
Alternative transport methods like the downtown ferry and subway F trains are insufficient for locals with pressing schedules, such as medical appointments or school pickups. Felicia Raff from the Roosevelt Island Residents Association highlighted that these delays negatively impact residents’ daily lives.
A rally supporting the call for “priority boarding” for locals took place recently, with community figures like Councillor Julie Menin advocating for a solution that allows residents to board trams ahead of tourists. Menin plans to meet with state officials to discuss implementing such measures.
Despite a previous argument from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) against prioritizing residents due to traffic laws, over 2,500 locals have signed a petition for priority boarding. Many residents relate current issues to past measures taken in 1976 to address similar concerns.
While some tourists see a priority system as unfair, those living on Roosevelt Island emphasize the necessity of prioritizing local transit needs in light of the growing tourism-driven congestion.
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