Shelton Haynes, CEO and president of Roosevelt Island operating corporation, has spearheaded numerous facelift projects for Roosevelt Island, helping transform this East River Region of New York. This is in a bid to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the region, with the projects aimed at driving progress for the residents of Roosevelt Island and tourists who ultimately help improve the area’s economy.
Shelton Haynes’ ascension to presidency and CEO marked a significant turning point for the organization, with Haynes being the second Black American to hold this position. Tasked with the unique challenge of promoting inclusion, Haynes has created a diverse, performance-driven team. The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation agency team comprises professionals from different cultures, an aspect that Haynes believes will help them offer unique solutions for the island’s benefit.
Roosevelt Island stands tall with some of its newest projects, including the FDR Memorial in honor of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Blackwell House, and the celebrated Graduate Hotel. The Blackwell House is one of the island’s landmarks and will serve as an exhibition center. Its significance has helped it earn a spot in the National Register of Historic Places and houses unique treasures and records dating back to the 18th century. Jose M. Serrano, state senator, noted during the unveiling of the renovated house that it would be instrumental in preserving New York’s rich heritage.
The above are just some of the island’s future-driven projects that will be essential in helping transform the island’s historical image. While it may have been instrumental in providing healthcare, most notably, the smallpox hospital, and is a region synonymous with prison and workhouse activities, its high-rises, parks, and housing establishments have reshaped it into the current residential area home to about 12,000 citizens.
The pickleball court remains another ambitious project that rioc CEO Haynes and assistant vice president Akeem H. Jamal believes will serve as an important tourist attraction site. Jamal stated that the high demand for a pickleball court has been instrumental in bringing the project to life, with the facility located in the island’s Sport Spark Complex.
Shelton Haynes’ commitment to transforming Roosevelt Island is nothing short of exceptional. With Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation at the helm of these impactful changes, the island will undoubtedly be an exceptional community as more innovative solutions and services take shape in the coming years.