Winter Storm Watch

During the last few weeks of the tramway's operation, the weather has consisted of mainly snow storms with high winds. Most people wouldn't feel safe riding the tram in these conditions, but residents of Roosevelt Island are pretty used to commuting in bad weather via the tramway. The first time I rode the tram in bad weather, it was night time and there were rapid wind gusts. The rain and snow was pouring down really hard. I thought the tram would be closed due to bad weather, but to my surprise, it was still operating on a regular schedule, with no complications. Although I have been on the tram before, I never have been more scared by the swaying of the car in the air and pounding rain against the glass windows. I seemed to be the only one frantic, on the phone with my friend explaining what was happening. The other passengers just sat or stood around until the ride was over as if nothing was out of the ordinary.

Here are some shots I took the day after the storm.

A Famous NYC Attraction

The Historic Roosevelt Island Tramway is a significant landmark for Roosevelt Island, and tourists who come to catch great views of the city. The Roosevelt Island Tramway was up and running by 1976. It was intentionally a temporary means of transportation that later became a permanent way of transporting residents and visitors. It was constructed by Vonroll Ltd of Bern, Switzerland costing $5 million. Its unique means of transporting commuters from busy 59th street and Second Avenue, Midtown Manhattan to a relaxed and quiet atmosphere in a remarkable 4 minutes has attracted many travelers and has become a popular setting in various films and music videos. The Roosevelt Island Tramway has been featured in movies like "Spider Man," "House on the Edge of the Park," "Dark Water," "Nighthawks," "Scarface," and "City Slickers" to name a few.
A popular song called "Cant Believe" by R&B artists Carl Thomas featuring Faith Evans features the Tramway in their music video.


The Tramway has been featured in various other publications for recognition including comic books and even at Universal Studios Theme Park featured in a King Kong thrill ride. Its fame is continuing to grow. With almost 35 years of its operation, can there possibly be more left in store for the historic landmark?