IURA Economic Deve. Commmittee

The City of Ithaca's Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) Economic Development Committee met on September 8, 2026, to discuss key procurement and redevelopment activities related to the Seneca Garage redevelopment project. The committee reviewed and unanimously approved a resolution to accept an option agreement for property transfer from the city to the IURA, enabling the agency to solicit developers for the project. The discussion detailed the urban renewal process, including soliciting developer interest through Requests for Information (RFI), Qualifications (RFQ), or Proposals (RFP), and structuring a disposition and development agreement (DDA) contingent on city council approval. The committee emphasized the importance of aligning redevelopment objectives with city goals, including mixed-use development with a focus on housing and maintaining a downtown bus hub. The city will handle demolition costs, while the IURA will manage legal and marketing expenses, reimbursed by the city. The committee also discussed zoning considerations, parking needs, and the potential for mixed-income housing. Additionally, the committee recognized a long-serving member for her contributions and reviewed updates on housing project funding and zoning efforts. The next meeting was scheduled for October 13, 2026.