Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) was established in 1984 by the state of New York as a public benefit corporation. It was mandated to oversee the planning, construction, management, and upkeep of Roosevelt Island.

The core mission of Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation is to provide services that enhance the residential community on Roosevelt Island. This public benefit corporation is responsible for managing and overseeing vital elements, such as the island’s roadways, parks, buildings, sports facilities, and public transportation, also featuring the well-known aerial tramway.

In 2021, Shelton J. Haynes took on the role of President and CEO of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). In 2016, he made a significant impact as he joined the organization, becoming the first Black chief operations officer in RIOC’s history. He had extensive experience collaborating at various levels within the organization.

RIOC has greatly assisted both locals and the innumerable tourists who visit Roosevelt Island under Shelton Haynes’ leadership. He began the restructuring process at RIOC with a well-defined plan, prioritizing recruiting excellent employees for critical jobs that would pave the road for the corporation’s success.

Haynes underlined the significance of evaluating people based on their experience rather than their name or origin to establish a diverse team. According to him, the team’s diversity is an additional asset; therefore, knowledge and credentials are to be considered.

Haynes and his administration consider the Roosevelt Island Youth Center as a significant achievement and part of their legacy. A substantial investment of $2.9 million established a cutting-edge facility, offering advanced educational instruction, skill development opportunities, and, most importantly, a secure haven for children. Acknowledging the significance of the period between school and parents’ arrival at home, their goal is to occupy this timeframe with engaging and educational activities that foster children’s growth and development.

The administration’s dedication and hard work have yielded significant investments in infrastructure, refined life, and increased recognition of Roosevelt Island as a prominent global landing place. Shelton Haynes expresses optimism about the island’s future, emphasizing that incredible opportunities lie ahead. He assures everyone to keep watching as exciting developments are on the horizon that should be noticed.