Save The Roosevelt Island Steam Power Plant: Demand Transparency And Accountability

Jan 23, 2026

The Issue

The historic Steam Power Plant at 5 East Main Street (New York, NY 10044) faces imminent demolition—threatening to erase an irreplaceable piece of Roosevelt Island’s industrial heritage. Without proper assessment, community input, or environmental safeguards, this landmark could be lost forever.

We, the residents and stakeholders of Roosevelt Island, demand an immediate halt to the demolition proceedings.

Why This Matters:

  • Public Health Risk: Demolition has begun without disclosure of testing or remediation plans for asbestos, lead, and other toxic materials commonly found in historic industrial buildings—directly endangering residents, workers, and our environment.
  • Zero Transparency: At the December 2nd community meeting, residents raised serious concerns about the documentation, including sudden and unannounced start of demolition activities. The community formally requested critical a structural assessment, a comprehensive environmental study, and a hazardous materials remediation plan, along with demolition methods, safety plans, and costs. None of this information has been provided.
  • Lost Opportunity: The building represents a unique opportunity for adaptive reuse as a desperately needed public school or Pre-K facility—alternatives that will be permanently lost without proper evaluation.
  • Historical Significance: Once destroyed, this iconic structure and its contribution to Roosevelt Island’s character can never be recovered.

We Demand:

  1. IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION of all demolition activities
  2. FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE of environmental testing and hazardous materials remediation plans
  3. RELEASE OF ALL DOCUMENTATION requested at the December 2nd community meeting
  4. TRANSPARENT FEASIBILITY STUDY for adaptive reuse options, particularly as an educational facility
  5. COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND INPUT before any demolition or reconstruction activities resume

Take Action Now

By signing our petition, you’re standing for community safety, government transparency, and the preservation of Roosevelt Island’s unique character. Every signature strengthens our collective voice against hasty, potentially dangerous decisions that would permanently alter our community.

Don’t let Roosevelt Island’s history be demolished without due process. Our heritage, health, and community needs deserve better than a wrecking ball without warning.

Sign today to protect tomorrow!