A New Home for County Government? Public Weighs In on $50M Downtown Building Plan

Tompkins County is moving forward with plans for a new $50 million “Center of Government” in downtown Ithaca—and residents have a lot to say about it.

The project, which has been in the conceptual phase for over two decades, would consolidate various county departments into a single, modern, and energy-efficient building at the corner of North Tioga and Buffalo Streets, steps from DeWitt Park. At approximately 48,000 square feet, the proposed facility aims to replace several outdated and dispersed county office spaces, some of which are leased or require significant repairs.

County officials say the building will improve efficiency, access, and service for residents while revitalizing the surrounding area. However, the timeline is lengthy: design and planning will extend through 2026, with construction potentially running from 2027 to 2029.

A final public meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 28, from 6–7:30 p.m. at the Tompkins County Legislature Chambers (121 E. Court St.), where community members can view proposed layouts, hear updates, and share their feedback either in person or online.

The Case for Consolidation

Supporters argue that a centralized county hub makes long-term financial sense and serves residents better. One resident, commenting on a local Facebook thread, wrote:

“We can’t afford to do it, we can’t afford not to do it. I sincerely look forward to the demolition of that building, in particular.”

The county also highlights operational inefficiencies in the current setup, environmental goals such as achieving LEED Gold certification, and an overall effort to improve access to government services—especially for those who rely on downtown transit routes.

Community Concerns: Cost, Priorities, and Trust

But not everyone is on board. With construction costs ballooning from $30 million to an estimated $50 million in just two years, many taxpayers are skeptical.

One man voiced a common frustration:

“Ithaca is vastly becoming a city of government, churches, schools, and other ‘not for profit,’ on the shoulders of tax-paying homeowners. My taxes have almost doubled this year alone!”

Others say the county has bigger fish to fry.

“Fix the roads, stop with the never-ending massive homeowner tax increases, tax developers and force them to make good on their proposals, make the Commons a place sober people want to go again, stop the toxic dumping into the inlet… you’ll be astonished how few Ithacans actually care where you put another government building.”

What Comes Next

The County Legislature approved the building plan in 2024, and demolition of the Professional Building and other nearby sites is expected as part of site preparation. With inflation and rising construction costs affecting the budget, public scrutiny will likely remain high.

Whether you’re excited about the new government hub or concerned about taxes and priorities, this is the moment to weigh in. The July 28 public meeting could be the last opportunity for residents to shape what this building becomes—and what it symbolizes for the future of downtown Ithaca.

Want to be heard?

📍 Attend the public meeting Monday, July 28, 6–7:30 PM at 121 E. Court Street

💻 Or submit feedback online at the Tompkins County Center of Government Project Page.