INHS presents plans for new five-story building with daycare on West State Street

The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the city, particularly focusing on a proposed five-story building that will include 56 one-bedroom units and a daycare facility. This meeting highlighted the importance of thoughtful urban planning in response to community needs and environmental considerations.

The proposed building aims to address accessibility concerns, especially for senior residents, by incorporating an elevated walkway that minimizes the impact of the floodplain. This design choice reflects a commitment to creating a user-friendly environment while ensuring safety and convenience for all tenants. The building will feature a drop-off area for the daycare, enhancing accessibility for parents and caregivers.

A key aspect of the discussion centered on the building's integration with its surroundings. The design team emphasized the need for sensitivity to adjacent properties, particularly regarding the building's height and massing. Current structures in the area are significantly shorter, which raises concerns about the visual impact of the new development. The commission expressed a desire for clearer visualizations to better understand how the new building will fit within the existing neighborhood context.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of outdoor spaces. Plans include a play area for the daycare that will be open to sunlight, promoting a healthy environment for children. The design also aims to enhance the streetscape along State Street, incorporating existing trees and improving sidewalks to create a more inviting public space.

Commission members praised the work of the Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services (INHS), noting their successful projects in the past decade. However, they urged the design team to provide more detailed visual representations of the proposed building in relation to its neighbors to facilitate better community understanding and feedback.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission meeting underscored the balance between development and community needs. As the project progresses, the commission will continue to seek input from residents and stakeholders to ensure that the new building serves as a valuable addition to the Ithaca community while respecting its historical and cultural context.