Roosevelt Island Tram to Shut Down for 6 Months
Service resumes on Sept. 3
Thursday, Feb 25, 2010 | Updated 3:45 PM EDT
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A rescue cage gets in position to rescue people aboard the Roosevelt Island Tram car that was suspended closest to Roosevelt Island April 18, 2006 in New York City. The Roosevelt Island Tramway reportedly lost power around 5pm leaving two tram cars, carrying approximately 70 people, suspended above the East River for hours until a rescue effort using a bucket system began to bring the passengers to land.
The tram that carries riders between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island above the East River will suspend service for a six-month modernization project starting Monday.
The refurbished tramway will be back in service Sept. 3.
The modernization will include the replacement of all aspects of the tram's operating system except for the three tower bases that support the track cables.
The tram system opened in 1976 to carry Roosevelt Island residents to and from Manhattan. The island also is accessible by bridge and subway.
The tram system malfunctioned in April 2006 and stranded 69 passengers 250 feet above the East River for 12 hours.
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp. says new generators, motors and gears will prevent electrical malfunctions from interrupting regular service in the future.
