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Ithaca in 3: Three Things to Know This Week

  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read

Each week, Life in Ithaca is highlighting three local updates worth knowing, from road closures and city government to arts, events, and community life.

Here are three things to keep on your radar this week.


1. Stewart Avenue Bridge Closure Begins

If Stewart Avenue is part of your regular route, this is the big one.

The Stewart Avenue Bridge over Fall Creek is scheduled to close beginning Monday, May 4, as part of a major rehabilitation project. According to the City of Ithaca, the closure is expected to continue until mid-November 2026.

The project includes structural repairs, painting, a new concrete deck, approach slabs, guiderail, curbing, and sidewalk work.

Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians should plan for detours and give themselves extra time, especially during the first few days of the closure as traffic patterns settle into their new rhythm.


2. Residents Can Apply for New City Advisory Committees

The City of Ithaca is inviting residents to get more involved in shaping local priorities.

Mayor Robert Cantelmo has announced four new ad hoc advisory committees focused on:

  • Housing quality and affordability

  • Arts and culture

  • Business and workforce development

  • Transportation and transit

Applications are open through June 1, 2026.

For residents who have strong opinions about Ithaca’s future, especially around housing, mobility, local business, and cultural life, this is a chance to move from comment-section grumbling to civic participation with actual teeth.


3. Spring Writes Literary Festival Kicks Off This Week

Ithaca’s literary scene steps into the spotlight this week with the opening weekend of the Spring Writes Literary Festival.

The festival runs May 7–10 and includes readings, workshops, panels, performances, teen events, family writing activities, and more.

Whether you’re a writer, reader, poet, storyteller, or someone who simply loves seeing Ithaca’s creative community in full bloom, Spring Writes is one of the week’s standout local events.

Festival information:https://springwrites.org/


That’s Your Ithaca in 3

From a major bridge closure to civic engagement opportunities and a celebration of local writing, this week has a little bit of everything: practical updates, public participation, and a healthy dose of creative energy.

Follow Life in Ithaca for more local updates, events, and stories worth knowing.

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