The City of Ithaca will provide information and take feedback on the planning process for the waterfront study area at two open house sessions planned Thursday.
The open houses are scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at The Space @ Greenstar, 700 W. Buffalo St.
Last September, the city adopted Phase I of the Comprehensive Plan, or Plan Ithaca, which includes a city-wide vision and broad goals. Work is now beginning on Phase II, which will include plans regarding specific neighborhoods. The plans will reflect the broad goals of the Comprehensive Plan, while addressing more neighborhood-level issues.
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One of the city’s top priorities for Phase II is the completion and adoption of a plan for the waterfront area, a news release said. The plan will outline desired land uses for the area and address issues like transportation, tourism, access, public safety and housing. Once the plan is adopted, it will serve as a guide for city policy and improvements.
Public comments, concerns, ideas, and general feedback will be recorded and used by the working group as a part of the planning process.
In addition to the open houses, the city plans to hold several focus group discussions to get additional feedback on the waterfront, Jennifer Kusznir, economic development planner. Kusznir said the city hopes to have a draft of the plan sometime in the spring.
Community members who cannot attend can still contact Jennifer Kusznir at jenniferk@cityofithaca.org to give feedback, or submit written comments to the City of Ithaca Planning Department at 108 E. Green Street, Ithaca, NY 14850.
Learn more about the Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan on the city’s website.