East River breezes tickle your face. You are standing in front of a portal to a unique New York experience. This is the Roosevelt Island Tramway. It’s more than just a ride. It’s a journey with a view.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway first opened on May 17, 1976. It was designed to provide a temporary transit solution. Subway construction to Roosevelt Island was behind schedule. Residents needed a way to get to Manhattan. The Roosevelt Island Tramway became more than temporary. It became an icon.
Imagine towering 250 feet above the East River. The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers stunning 360-degree views. You can see the city skyline. You can see the river below. The ride itself only takes three to four minutes.
Swiss firm Von Roll built the original Roosevelt Island Tramway. American designers Prentice & Chan, Ohlhausen assisted. The Roosevelt Island Tramway was the first commuter aerial tramway in the U.S.
Initially, ferries and the Queensboro Bridge trolley were the primary ways to reach Roosevelt Island. The trolley stopped mid-bridge. People then took an elevator down. This changed with the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
Over two million people ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway each year. About 70 percent are residents. The remaining 30 percent are tourists. The Roosevelt Island Tramway connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island. It is a vital link for residents and a unique experience for visitors.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway is not operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Leitner-Poma of America operates it. The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation owns it. Despite not being an MTA operation, you need a MetroCard to ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway underwent a complete renovation in 2010. The only parts that remained were the three tower bases. The upgrade included a dual-haul system. This allows each car to operate independently.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway has faced challenges. There were power outages and incidents. In 2006, passengers were stuck for seven hours. Renovations addressed these problems. Backup systems were refurbished. Cars were equipped with emergency supplies.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway has appeared in movies. King Kong and Spider-Man have graced the tram. The Roosevelt Island Tramway is a star in its own right.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway can withstand most weather conditions. It only closes during lightning or high winds. It even operated longer than other transit during Hurricane Sandy.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway drops passengers off at Tram Plaza on Roosevelt Island. Nearby, you will find the visitor center. It is one of the original kiosks for the old “Bridge Local” trolley.
So, take a ride on the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Experience a unique slice of New York City. It’s a ride you won’t soon forget.