Ithaca · Local digest

The City of Ithaca's Common Council approved moving forward with a 75-unit apartment complex proposal for Elm Street on an 8-1 vote, allowing developers to flesh out their concept plan and schedule public information sessions. The project, which would convert vacant wooded land adjacent to Lehman Alternative Community School into five buildings, is the first to use the city's new Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning process that requires direct Common Council approval. The Common Council had previously urged developers to create a denser project for the site. Public comment at the Wednesday council meeting was mixed, with supporters citing the project's proximity to schools and transit, lower carbon footprint compared to sprawling development, and well-designed walkable apartments. Opponents raised concerns about traffic congestion on Elm Street—which is already the fifth most dangerous roadway intersection in Tompkins County—maintenance standards, neighborhood character on West Hill, and loss of green space used by LACS students. Council members requested additional studies on traffic and stormwater impacts, potential rent affordability details, and community benefits. First Ward Alderperson Jorge DeFendini proposed adding a TCAT bus stop, exploring a three-building alternative design, and engaging LACS educators and students in the planning process.

Tompkins County Whole Health released its 2025-2030 Community Health Improvement Plan, a five-year strategic initiative developed over two years with input from over 1,800 residents and 76 organizations. The plan identifies five priority areas for collaborative action: housing stability and affordability, nutrition security, substance misuse and overdose prevention, chronic disease prevention and management, and access to prenatal care. The plan emphasizes health equity by addressing barriers to healthcare and social determinants of health, with implementation led by priority workgroups and progress monitored through local and state health indicators.