Residents of Roosevelt Island are expressing growing frustration over lengthy tram line waits, often occurring alongside throngs of tourists, which some locals feel has transformed their essential transportation system into a mere tourist attraction. Reports indicate that residents have been waiting up to 45 minutes to board the tram from the Upper East Side’s Tramway Plaza. While locals appreciate the influx of visitors, they believe their needs as residents should be prioritized. Paul Krikler, a longtime resident and community board chair, emphasized that the tram should serve its intended purpose of public transit rather than becoming a “tourist ride.”
Besides the tram, residents can access the island via ferry services or the subway’s F train, but these alternatives are insufficient to meet local transportation needs, especially during peak times. Felicia Ruff from the Roosevelt Island Residents’ Association articulated the difficulties faced by locals, highlighting how crowded tram conditions can make them late for important commitments such as work or medical appointments. She expressed a desire for understanding from both tourists and transit authorities, advocating for measures that would allow residents faster access without infringing on the tourism experience.
The rise in tram ridership has been significant, as data suggests an increase of one million riders over the past two years, fueled by its growing popularity on social media as a must-do activity in New York City. This increase has led to heightened tensions, with many residents, particularly older individuals, facing challenges accessing their homes. Louella Streitz, a 69-year-old resident, bluntly remarked on the difficulties caused by crowded conditions, even admitting to forcefully pushing her way into the tram when necessary. The difficulties have prompted local officials to take notice.
A recent rally at Tramway Plaza drew attention to these issues, with local officials like Council Member Julie Menin proposing a solution to allow residents priority boarding on the tram while also introducing a tourist pass system to enhance business on Roosevelt Island. Menin characterized the approach as a “win-win,” facilitating easier transport for locals while still promoting tourism. She plans to discuss the idea further with state officials, highlighting an urgency to address the matter for the sake of community well-being.
Despite calls for a priority boarding system, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC), which oversees the tram, has been hesitant to adopt such measures, citing legal restrictions against preferential treatment based on residency. Their position contrasts with residents who argue that the current situation creates a “transportation crisis” and that many cities already offer residents similar benefits. Residents have rallied support for their cause, as indicated by a petition signed by over 2,500 individuals and a resolution passed by the local community board advocating for the change.
While many tourists may sympathize with the residents’ request for priority boarding, opinions are mixed. Some first-time visitors, like Yolanda Pedraza from Colombia, express concerns about fairness, suggesting that all visitors should have equal access to the tram’s stunning views. The ongoing debate illustrates the complexity of balancing resident needs with tourism, a challenge that cities like New York must navigate as they strive to cater to both locals and out-of-town visitors.
