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New York City Rental News

• December 20, 2010The Two Worlds Of Brighton Beach
• December 13, 2010Quiet Enjoyment In New York City Apartments
• December 10, 2010NYC Rental Landlords And Unhealthy Building Violations
• December 9, 2010Living In A Bazaar - A NYC Rental Along Canal Street
• December 8, 2010New York City Apartments - What Really Matters

Roosevelt Island

History Roosevelt Island is a narrow island in the East River of New York City. Originally named Hog Island; the island was purchased by the Dutch from the Canarise Indians in 1637. In 1666 the English Captain John Manning seized control of the island. In 1686 Manning’s son-in-law, Robert Blackwell takes possession of the island and renames it Blackwell’s Island. In 1796 Blackwell house is built. Blackwell house is today the 6th oldest house in New York City. In 1828, the City of New York purchases Blackwell’s Island for $32,500. The island becomes a municipal area housing a prison and the New York Lunatic Asylum. In 1921 the island is renamed once again this time it is named Welfare Island. The island remains a municipal location for decades developing a very eccentric history. It’s not until the 70’s that construction really begins on Roosevelt Island housing. In 1968 for the first time it is recommended that the island be used for residential property. A comity appointed by Mayor John Lindsay having looked at various uses for the island they come to the conclusion that it should be opened to residential use. In 1973 the Island finally get’s the name we know it by today Roosevelt Island. In 1976 Eastwood opens up 283 Roosevelt Island apartments. That same year Westviews opens an additional 361 Roosevelt Island apartments for rent. The amount of Roosevelt Island rentals went from practically nothing to thousands of units in just one year. 1976 also marked the opening of the Tramway. This tied the Island to the city making Roosevelt Island housing much more appealing to average New Yorker. For the first time the Island felt like it was part of the city. Description Today Roosevelt Island is still mostly apartment buildings. Many apartments feature river views and scenic views of the city. The Island offers many of the benefits of the city while also being casual and totally separate from the city. Residents Roosevelt Island has a diverse population, incomes range from working class to wealthy. The island population is almost equally split among single people and families. The island is home to a diverse cultural and racial mix. Rental Housing Roosevelt Island rental prices Range from $3.00 to $4.48 a square foot. Roosevelt Island properties are mostly apartments making Roosevelt Island apartment rentals easy to find. Everything from lower priced family units to high end luxury studios are available. Fun Stuff Roosevelt Island is cradled in the heart of New York City. All the life and entertainment of the city that never sleeps is just a tram ride away. There are also many parks and recreational facilities on the island. The island also features many historic buildings.