The Roosevelt Island Tramway
Warning: On March 1, 2010, service on the Roosevelt Island Aerial Tramway will be suspended for approximately six months for extensive modernization and upgrades. For alternate bus schedules see http://www.rioc.com/
The 4 minute ride, which offers spectacular views to its passengers, has been praised in the New York Times as "the most exciting view in New York City!" It costs a mere $2.25 each way ($4 for a round trip) and students with tram permits ride free. Senior citizens and the disabled pay $1.00 each way.
Over 26 million passengers -- including commuters, tourists, students and seniors have used the tram. Each cabin accommodates a capacity of 125 people, makes approximately 115 trips per day, and about 100 on weekends. It glides at approximately 16 miles per hour and travels 3,100 feet. At its peak it climbs to 250 feet above the East River. Two cabins make the run every fifteen minutes from 6:00am to 2:30am (3:30am on weekends) and continuously during rush hours.
Official website
http://www.rioc.com/
General Information
For tram information, call 832-4543, Ext. 1
Where to get it
TramPlaza is located at 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan. On the island a red minibus meets the tram and takes you throughout the island for 25 cents!
Where it takes you
In just four minutes you can travel from busy midtown Manhattan to the quiet, safe and beautiful residential Roosevelt Island. It offers great views, 5 spacious parks, 6 historic landmarks dating from 1796, and the opportunity to visit a limited traffic, mixed income multi-ethnic planned community.
In the Movies
The tram has been featured in many motion pictures such as Billy Crystal's "City Slickers" and Sylvester Stallone's "Nighthawks". It is currently featured in a popular attraction at Universal Studios Theme Park in Florida where King Kong "attacks" a tram filled with "passengers."
History
The Roosevelt Island tram began operating in 1976. There are 20 other trams operating in the U.S. and Canada but the Roosevelt Island tram is the only aerial commuter tram in the country. Originally built as a temporary means of transportation for island residents by New York State's Urban Development Corporation, it has become a permanent part of the life of the island and a treasure for New Yorkers and visitors throughout the world.
