ICAHN STADIUM

April 2008

NEWS FROM THE FIELDS


NEW FIELDS – NEW NAMES – NEW IDENTITY

As the completion of the sports fields nears, we have implemented a new signage and numbering system that simplifies the field layout plan and makes it easier for users to orient themselves.

The northern section of the park will now be referred to as Randall’s Island North, and the southern section as Randall’s Island South (no more Wards Island). Fields in Randall’s Island North are numbered from 1–49, and fields in Randall’s Island South from 50–100. Each cluster of fields – Bronx Shore Fields, Sunken Meadow Fields, Central Fields, etc. – is numbered accordingly: 1–5, 12–48, 50–54, etc. (please see map to right). Large orientation signs noting "You Are Here" with be installed throughout the park, designating parking areas, comfort stations, park facilities, pathways and drives.

A special Randall's Island Sports Fields Hot Line has been installed so that users can receive the latest information regarding field maintenance and weather related closures. The 24-hour Hot Line – (212) 860-1830 - will be available as of September 1.

The new Randall's Island Park map is posted and downloadable on our website, www.risf.org.

RISF is hosting a series of Orientation Meetings to familiarize users with the new field numbering system, signage, new rules and regulations and plans for security and maintenance. The first meeting was held on March 19 at Icahn Stadium. Representatives from adult and youth leagues attended, including: Community League, Cosmopolitan Soccer, Deportivo Cuenca, Downtown United Soccer Club, Hotel Employees Sports, Interamerican Sports, Manhattan Soccer Club, Metro NY Rugby, New York Rugby, NYAC Rugby, Village Lions Rugby, Village Lions and Yorkville Sports, and Yorkville Youth Athletic Association.

Scott McAuliffe, Principal Park Supervisor, presented the fields development plan, and Michael Dockett, Chief, Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP), reviewed Rules and Regulations and discussed plans for PEP officers to provide regular patrols once the new fields open this fall. Additional Orientation Meetings will be scheduled throughout the year for other Parks users.


A NEW HOME FOR SOME OF THE ISLAND’S TREES

As part of the reconstruction of the fields, trees are being transplanted to new locations. These new tree groves will be located throughout the Park, offering visitors beautiful natural areas to relax and enjoy.

RISF crew oversees the use of a Tree Spade in one of many tree-relocation projects on the Island. On your next visit to the Island, look for a grove of London Planes at the Queens ramp, a grove of Lindens behind the golf center and a new grove of Locusts as you exit the island to Manhattan.

In total, the Park will benefit from the planting of over 3,000 new trees – maintaining the Island’s sense of repose and assuring its healthy, sustainable future.


[align=center]THANKS FOR TEAMING WITH US TO MAKE THIS POSSIBLE![/align]

[hr]