Plus... A Site Pushes a Plan to Landmark the Tram

Another new Island-based website is aimed at landmarking the Tramway. At TramNYC.com, four Islanders hope to start a movement toward that goal.

Archie Seale, the Rivercross resident who is proprietor of the Grog Shop, is President. Kaie Razaghi of Trellis is Vice President. The owner of Roosevelt Island Cleaners, David Oh, is Treasurer, and longtime resident Tami Campbell is Secretary.

The group has prepared a petition, which can be signed on line, saying, "Once enough signatures are collected, the appropriate paperwork must be filed and an evaluation completed by the Landmarks Preservation Committee. Then, after a successful review, public hearing and various votes, the nomination will head to City Council for the final decision."

It’s unclear whether the group has Federal, State, or City landmarking in mind.

"As a National Historic Landmark, the Tram’s future will be protected by the National Parks Service," says the website. "In addition, as a Landmark, the Tram would be eligible for special Federal grants.

"Once the signatures are collected, the Save the Tram Committee and the Community Board 8 Landmark Commission will present their case to the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, an 11 member group appointed by the Mayor. If it is approved by the Commission, it then goes to the City Council for final approval."

The website has links for making donations, signing the petition, contacting the group, and a guest book where visitor comments are recorded.