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Tompkins County considers moving Code Blue shelter from downtown KeyBank site; RFP and Cherry Street renovation discussed
Summary
Committee members and county staff discussed whether to reuse the downtown KeyBank building for seasonal Code Blue operations, an RFP to select a shelter provider, and a proposed Cherry Street site that would require roughly 2–3 months of renovation if selected.
Amanda Kirch Gessner, a member of the public, told the committee she has heard reports of severe restroom sanitation problems at the downtown temporary Code Blue site and urged the county to improve shower access and avoid placing a centralized shelter next to the city’s outdoor encampment area. "I don't know if you've been in a restroom after, someone has defecated in the urinal repeatedly, but it doesn't smell great," she said during public comment, adding that placing "1 centralized shelter downtown next to the jungle is a really bad idea."
County staff and legislators discussed options for the upcoming Code Blue season. Staff reported the temporary downtown shelter in the former KeyBank building was intended as an emergency, rapid response site and that continued use there beyond this season is undesirable given neighborhood concerns and operational limitations. County administration is preparing an RFP to identify a shelter provider (the county said it is working with MMDA Advisors on the RFP), and staff identified a potential alternative site on Cherry Street behind the building currently occupied by Founders.
County staff described the Cherry Street site as a single‑story structure that would require substantial work—fire alarm system installation, restroom trailers or restroom upgrades and other improvements—and estimated 2–3 months for renovations, with three months preferred. Staff said that if a shelter provider with an existing suitable facility responds to the RFP, that would simplify or remove the need for renovations. Norma (county staff) told the committee a closing on the Cherry Street property had not yet occurred and that staff were still working through lease and tenant matters.
Committee members raised two central considerations: neighborhood impacts and service quality for people experiencing homelessness. Legislator Mike said neighbors are unhappy and that the KeyBank site should not be a long‑term solution; Legislator Greg emphasized prioritizing what best serves the population being sheltered and urged the county to seek sites with better amenities. Aurel (county staff) and other staff said they will continue to pursue the RFP and, if needed, prepare renovation timelines and cost estimates.
Why it matters: The location and operating model for Code Blue sheltering affects downtown residents and businesses, the safety and dignity of people seeking emergency shelter, and the county’s ability to meet state definitions of emergency shelter versus warming center services (the county referenced the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance distinction during the meeting).
Next steps: staff will continue the RFP process, pursue the Cherry Street property closing, and return to the committee with timeline and budget recommendations. No formal vote was taken at this meeting on shelter location or funding.
