Ithaca City Council extends lease for downtown childcare center by ten years

The IURA Governance Committee meeting held on April 18, 2025, focused on urban renewal projects and real estate developments in Ithaca. The meeting began with discussions regarding several properties currently listed for sale, including the former junkyard and a site adjacent to Art House, which had previously been proposed for a large housing project. Committee members noted that there has been little development in the area since Art House was established, with the last significant activity occurring a long time ago.

The committee then shifted its attention to the current urban renewal projects. A key topic was the downtown Ithaca childcare center, formerly known as the drop-in center, which is located on city-owned property. The lease for this facility, which has been in place since 1995, is set to expire soon. The committee discussed a proposed 10-year extension of the lease, which would allow the childcare center to continue operating. This extension includes an additional 10-year renewal option, contingent upon agreement from all parties involved: the city, the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA), and the childcare center.

It was clarified that there is no option for the childcare center to purchase the property, as the city aims to maintain control over it while supporting the childcare operation. The drop-in center has a history of fundraising for its building and has previously contributed land to the city for expansion purposes.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the proposed lease extension would move forward, pending a resolution expected to be passed in May. This decision reflects the city's commitment to facilitating essential community services while navigating the complexities of urban renewal and property management.