Green Tram

COALITION OF EAST SIDE ELECTED OFFICIALS C/O

ASSEMBLY MEMBER MICAH Z. KELLNER 315 EAST 65 STREET NEW YORK, NY 10065 TH

July 2, 2009 Stephen H. Shane President Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation 591 Main Street New York, NY 10044

Dear Mr. Shane: We are writing to encourage the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) to take advantage of a key opportunity to provide leadership in improving New York’s environment by installing energy efficient roofing on the renovated Roosevelt Island Tramway stations. With the overhaul of the Tramway, RIOC is afforded a chance to become a leader in New York’s environmental sustainability efforts by incorporating affordable and cutting-edge green features into the design and construction of its renovated tram stations. As you are aware, recent public policy at the city and state levels has encouraged the construction of “green buildings,” both by residential developers and by public agencies. We appreciate that RIOC has expressed a commitment to environmental sustainability in its operations, and we believe that with the tram overhaul, the agency is well positioned to demonstrate that commitment in a high-profile public project. The incorporation of a green roof into the tram station redesign offers significant public benefits. Green roofs have been shown to contribute to a reduction in the “urban heat island effect” by absorbing heat while evaporating water. Studies have also shown that each square meter of grass roofing can remove up to 4.4 lbs of airborne particulates from a city’s air every year; additionally, green roofs retain 70-90% of the precipitation that falls on them, drastically reducing stormwater runoff and easing strain on sewers, which in turn helps control water pollution. Not only does a green roof design save energy, but there is also the potential to generate energy for New York through the inclusion of solar panels, as we have seen in other local designs. A green roof would also have aesthetic benefits, especially when contrasted to exposed concrete. Finally, by shielding a structure from the elements, a green roof can extend the lifespan of a building, resulting in long-term cost savings. We understand that RIOC is considering a green roof for its Roosevelt Island-side tram station, and that it has been willing to engage residents of the Upper East Side who would like to

see similar measures taken at the Manhattan station. This is encouraging; however, we note that the latest designs for the Manhattan station do not feature a green roof or walls. It makes sense from a practical standpoint, and financially, to seriously consider a green roof design during the renovation design phase. It is our understanding that RIOC has given consideration to installation of a polycarbonate roof at the Manhattan station. However, while a polycarbonate roof can earn a project credit according to the LEED Green Building Rating System, it offers significantly fewer environmental benefits than a green roof, particularly with regard to stormwater runoff and the prevention of water pollution. By choosing a green roof, RIOC would be setting an example for developers across the city and nationwide, helping to raise crucial awareness of an innovative building technique with multiple environmental benefits. There would be significant positive impacts on the quality of life of area residents, commuters, workers, and visitors. And during this challenging time, the adoption of green roofing would contribute to the growth of a nascent industry, helping to create green jobs here in New York City. We also believe that a forward-thinking design for both stations would go a long way in continuing to build on the good relationship between Roosevelt Islanders and their neighbors on the East Side. And finally, it would uphold the tradition of Roosevelt Island as a laboratory for better and more sustainable living. We strongly encourage RIOC to take advantage of this opportunity. We look forward to hearing your thoughts and the results of your architect’s analysis. We would like to request a meeting to discuss this further, and will call your office to set up a time that is good for everyone. Very truly yours,

Micah Z. Kellner Assembly Member

Carolyn B. Maloney Congress Member

Scott M. Stringer Borough President

Liz Krueger State Senator

José M. Serrano State Senator

Jonathan L. Bing Assembly Member

Daniel R. Garodnick Council Member

Jessica S. Lappin Council Member

cc:

Sarah Gallagher, Upper Green Side Deborah VanAmerongen, Chair, RIOC Board of Directors