Landmarks commission approves glass enclosure for bridges at 123 South Cayuga; discusses rooftop amenity

The Ithaca Landmarks Preservation Commission on March 18, 2025 approved a certificate of appropriateness to enclose the space between the second- and fourth-floor bridges on the east elevation of the Ithaca Gas and Electric Company building, 123 South Cayuga Street, and discussed preliminary designs for a setback rooftop amenity.

The commission found the proposed glass-and-steel enclosure would not have a "substantial adverse effect" on the landmark’s aesthetic, historical or architectural significance and determined the design meets criteria in section 228-6 of the municipal code and the Secretary of the Interior standards for rehabilitation. "The bridges themselves ... we own that right," said Brian McCracken, historic preservation and neighborhood…