The City of Ithaca has announced plans to permanently maintain the closure of the Seneca Street Parking Garage following an independent engineering evaluation of the structure.
The garage has been closed since April 10 after unexpected safety concerns were identified that officials said posed risks to both vehicles and pedestrians. Since the closure, the city has conducted additional engineering reviews and structural analysis.
City officials said there was initially hope that repairs could allow the garage to reopen. However, after evaluating the extent of structural deterioration, ongoing safety concerns, and the projected cost of repairs needed to extend the life of the structure, the city determined reopening the facility was not in its best interests.
“Public safety must remain our top priority,” said Dominick Recckio. “The condition and age of the structure combined with the scale and cost of work to safely reopen it, make closure the most fiscally and operationally responsible decision.”
A presentation delivered to the Ithaca Common Council on May 6 by Lisa Nicholas outlined a possible redevelopment process for the site. Under the proposal, and pending multiple Common Council approvals, the property would be transferred to the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency, which would oversee the future sale and redevelopment of the property.
City officials noted the garage site falls within the boundaries of Ithaca’s recently awarded $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant area. The state grant program supports projects focused on housing, economic development, and public space improvements in downtown communities.
“The redevelopment of the Seneca Street Garage is a generational opportunity to make a critical investment in our downtown,” said Robert Cantelmo. “Aligning with the vision of our Downtown Revitalization Initiative, this builds momentum behind Ithaca’s Renaissance: supporting long-term housing goals, strengthening our local economy, and contributing to a more active, welcoming city.”
In the meantime, the city said it will hire a contractor to remove deteriorating exterior concrete panels from the garage. Officials said the panels have been damaged by moisture intrusion and pose a risk of falling debris. Their removal is expected to allow nearby sidewalks to safely reopen.
The city is also continuing to work with Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit on transit operations affected by the closure. Officials said they are evaluating a more permanent relocation for the “Seneca at Commons” bus stop to reduce disruptions for riders and nearby businesses.
City officials acknowledged the impact the closure has had on downtown businesses, residents, and visitors, and said they will continue monitoring parking availability, improving wayfinding, and working with partners to prioritize customer parking while expanding transportation alternatives for employees.
