Developers presented a conceptual master plan for the 95‑acre South Works site, describing entitlement for about 915 housing units, adaptive‑reuse strategies, a sustainability framework including microgrid and stormwater plans, and reliance on a $38 million state ACHIEVE grant and other public funding to build core infrastructure.

After roughly 30 minutes of public comment and an hour of council questioning, Ithaca Common Council voted 8–1 to move the Elm Street Planned Unit Development (PUD) forward to a public information session where design details, traffic studies and environmental review will be considered.

The Ithaca Planning & Development Board unanimously approved preliminary and final site plan approval for the 309 College Avenue apartments on June 23, 2026, but added conditions requiring a city‑approved signage plan, a dedicated neighborhood contact, and intensified coordination during any demolition that overlaps student move‑in (roughly Aug. 15–Sept. 15).

Council discusses site plan review ordinance and final approval for 325 College Avenue.

Developers seek city partnership to revive stalled project after significant financial setbacks and redesign efforts.