The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has been a public benefit corporation since 1984. It is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Roosevelt Island, a small island in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. In 2017, President and CEO Shelton J. Haynes took over the RIOC and has since been credited with transforming it into an efficient, customer-focused agency with numerous long-term projects underway. Let’s look at some of his impactful changes to improve life on the island.
The Riverwalk Neighborhood & SportsPark Facility
Shelton Haynes has made major progress in developing the area around Southpoint Park into what will become known as the Riverwalk Neighborhood. This area will include several high-quality residences and businesses and will be anchored by a new state-of-the-art SportsPark facility announced in 2021 under Haynes’ leadership. Scheduled to open in 2023, this facility will include pickleball courts, basketball courts, soccer fields, volleyball courts, fitness classes, and more.
Youth Center Development
In 2020, Shelton Haynes announced plans to build a youth center on Roosevelt Island. This center is part of his commitment to providing resources for the island’s children and young adults to help them develop their skills and reach their full potential. The center will offer educational programs such as STEM courses and recreational activities like sports leagues and art classes.
Memorial Honoring World War II Veterans
In 2021, Shelton Haynes unveiled plans for a memorial honoring World War II veterans located on Roosevelt Island’s southern tip near Four Freedoms Park. This memorial project is being funded through private donations from individuals who have connections to those who served during World War II or died fighting for our country during that period—including two members of Mr. Haynes’ own family—as well as corporate sponsorships from companies looking to honor veterans in their communities.
Conclusion
Shelton Haynes has had an incredibly positive impact on Roosevelt Island since joining Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation in 2017; his vision for what this community can become has been inspiring and motivating for many people today. He continues seeking ways to improve life on this small island by creating more housing options, expanding access to resources like educational programs and recreational activities, honoring those who fought for our freedom during World War II, and more! His dedication to making Roosevelt Island an even better place than it already is makes him an invaluable asset here and across New York City.