ITHACA — Changes are coming to a major development project in downtown Ithaca, as
lawmakers received an update this week.

Tompkins County leaders have been trying to move plans forward to redevelop the site of the old county library at Court and Cayuga streets for years.

Last year, lawmakers signed off on allowing Travis Hyde Properties to redevelop the site, but only after lengthy conversations about which developer should be chosen.

Travis Hyde Properties has now proposed decreasing the number of apartments that will be inside the new property from 60 to 55. Developers also say they’re considering opening up the apartments to more than just seniors, after hearing feedback that a mix of ages could be a better option for the site.

Another big change is that the senior organization Lifelong will no longer be moving into the new building, which will be known as Dewitt House. Leaders of Lifelong say it’s more affordable for them to maintain their current location on West Court Street, put a property next door on the market, and use rent-free space inside the community room of the new building.

Lifelong officials said that approach will cost them $50,000 less than the initial proposal to move into the new building.