Shelton Haynes is a well-known urban planning and development figure, and his contributions to Roosevelt Island demonstrate his abilities and knowledge. Roosevelt Island, located in New York City’s East River, is a small, 2-mile-long sliver of land that has seen substantial change. The island, however, has transformed into a dynamic, modern community thanks to Shelton Haynes and the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC).
The State of New York established the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) in 1984 to handle the island’s affairs. The objective of the RIOC is to keep Roosevelt Island a secure, clean, and attractive place to live, work, and visit. The organization oversees everything from the island’s infrastructure to its public transportation system.
Haynes was instrumental in the reconstruction of Roosevelt Island. From 1995 to 2005, he was president of the RIOC and directed several significant projects, including the construction of the Roosevelt Island Tramway. The tramway is a cable car system that connects the island to Manhattan and debuts in 1976. It has become a major tourist destination and an iconic island symbol.
Haynes was also in charge of constructing various residential buildings on the island, notably the Octagon, a historic structure originally home to the island’s mental institution. The Octagon has been turned into luxury flats and is currently one of the most desirable residential buildings on the island.
Haynes was also in charge of the repair of the island’s parks and public areas. The RIOC was instrumental in developing several new parks and recreational places on the island, notably Southpoint Park and Four Freedoms Park.
Shelton Haynes has contributed to other significant urban development initiatives and his work on Roosevelt Island. He has collaborated with the City of New York on several projects, including the creation of the High Line, a park created on an old elevated train track. Haynes has also consulted for other cities and spoken on urban planning and development worldwide.
Finally, Shelton Haynes’ services to Roosevelt Island and the RIOC have aided in the island’s transformation into a vibrant community. His vision and expertise have resulted in the development of critical infrastructure and public areas, and his efforts will benefit residents and visitors for many years.