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HomeMy WebLinkAboutWonderland 2-Lot Sub- PB Packet 9-16-25 DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING Stormwater, Sanitary Sewer, Potable Water, Roads, Parks, and Trails 114 Seven Mile Drive, Ithaca, N.Y. 14850 ENGINEERING@TOWNITHACANY.GOV PHONE: 607.273.1656 FAX: 607.272.6076 www.townithacany.gov ENGINEERING MEMORANDUM FROM: David O’Shea P.E, Director of Engineering Emily Rodgers, Civil Engineer. TO: Town of Ithaca Planning Board CC: CJ Randall, Director of Planning Chris Balestra, Senior Planner DATE: August 21, 2025 RE: Wonderland Subdivision The Town of Ithaca is proposing to acquire a 0.12-acre parcel by subdividing 654 Elmira Road. The parcel will be utilized to rehabilitate and improve the existing sanitary sewer pump station that is owned and operated by the Town. This acquisition will enable the installation of a natural gas emergency generator and an access drive. Chapter 270-230.2 of the Code of the Town of Ithaca exempts Town of Ithaca owned water or sewer infrastructure from Chapter 270 and its requirements. PROPOSED RESOLUTION: SEQR Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval Wonderland Two-Lot Subdivision 654 Elmira Road Tax Parcel No. 33.-3-6 Town of Ithaca Planning Board September 16, 2025 WHEREAS: 1. This is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed two-lot subdivision at 654 Elmira Road, located in the Neighborhood Commercial Zone. The project includes subdividing a +/- 0.12 acre parcel from a +/- 4.04 acre parcel containing the Rodeway Inn & Suites. The +/- 0.12 acre parcel will be conveyed to the Town of Ithaca for municipal sewer improvements, in accordance with the 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project. Jamna Hospitality, Inc., Owner; Town of Ithaca, Applicant; David O’Shea, Director of Engineering, Agent; 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is acting in an uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the project; 3. The Planning Board on September 16, 2025, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) Part 1, submitted by the applicant, Parts 2 and 3 prepared by Planning staff, a report prepared by the Town of Ithaca Engineering Department, titled “Engineering Report for 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project,” dated September 3, 2024; a subdivision map titled “Survey map showing parcel to be conveyed to the Town of Ithaca, Located at 654 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York,” prepared by Williams & Edsall, Land Surveyors, PC, dated 8/6/2025; and other application materials; 4. Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed Subdivision Approval; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law 6 NYCRR Part 617 New York State Environmental Quality Review for the above referenced action as proposed, based on the information in the EAF Part 1 and for the reasons set forth in the EAF Parts 2 and 3, and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. Page 1 of 3 Name of Applicant or Sponsor: Telephone: E-Mail: Address: State: Zip Code: 1.Does the proposed action only involve the legislative adoption of a plan, local law, ordinance, administrative rule, or regulation? If Yes, attach a narrative description of the intent of the proposed action and the environmental resources that may be affected in the municipality and proceed to Part 2. If no, continue to question 2. NO YES 2.Does the proposed action require a permit, approval or funding from any other government Agency? If Yes, list agency(s) name and permit or approval: NO YES 3.a. Total acreage of the site of the proposed action? _________ acres __________ acresb. Total acreage to be physically disturbed? c. Total acreage (project site and any contiguous properties) owned __________ acresor controlled by the applicant or project sponsor? 4.Check all land uses that occur on, areadjoining or near the proposed action: 5. UrbanRural (non-agriculture) Industrial Commercial Residential (suburban) AquaticOther(Specify):□Forest Agriculture □Parkland City/PO: Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 1 -Project Information Instructions for Completing Part 1 –Project Information. The applicant or project sponsor is responsible for the completion of Part 1.Responses become part of the application for approval or funding, are subject to public review, and may be subject to further verification. Complete Part 1 based on information currently available.If additional research or investigation would be needed to fully respond to any item, please answer as thoroughly as possible based on current information. Complete all items in Part 1. You may also provide any additional information which you believe will be needed by or useful to the lead agency; attach additional pages as necessary to supplement any item. Part 1 –Project and Sponsor Information Name of Action or Project: Project Location (describe, and attach a location map): Brief Description of Proposed Action: 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project Site 1 ("Waldorf") is adjacent to 855 Five Mile Drive. Site 2 ("Wonderland") is adjacent to 656 Elmira road. Town Of Ithaca (607) 273-1656 DOshea@townithacany.gov 215 North Tioga Street Ithaca New York 14850 Town of Ithaca Subdivision Approval (PB), Town of Ithaca building permit, NYSDEC - Fresh Water Wetland Permit & 401 water quality certification, NYSDOT - Highway Work Permit for both sites, and USACE Nationwide permit 4.14+/- 0.22 0.35 Wetland The proposed action involves Town Board approval to improve two sewer pump stations to increase available capacity within the "Floral Sanitary Sewer Shed," located in the Inlet Valley area of the Town of Ithaca. Improvements include repairing concrete, replacing electronic and control elements, replacing pump system components, installing permanent natural gas generators, making minor site improvements, and increasing the size of approximately 73 linear feet of an existing gravity sewer main, and acquisition of approximately 0.12 acres of land. The proposed action also involves Planning Board subdivision approval to subdivide approximately 0.12 acres from the 4.04-acre Tax Parcel No. 33.-3-6 ("Site 2: Wonderland Site") to accommodate the sanitary system improvements. Page 2 of 3 5.Is the proposed action, a.A permitted use under the zoning regulations? b.Consistent with the adopted comprehensive plan? NO YES N/A 6.Is the proposed action consistent with the predominant character of the existing built or natural landscape?NO YES 7.Is the site of the proposed action located in, or does it adjoin, a state listed Critical Environmental Area? If Yes, identify: ________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 8.a. Will the proposed action result in a substantial increase in traffic above present levels? b.Are public transportation services available at or near the site of the proposed action? c.Are any pedestrian accommodations or bicycle routes available on or near thesite of the proposed action? NO YES 9.Does the proposed action meet or exceed the state energy code requirements? If the proposed action will exceed requirements, describe design features and technologies: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 10.Will the proposed action connect to an existing public/private water supply? If No, describe method for providing potable water: _________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 11.Will the proposed action connect to existing wastewater utilities? If No, describe method for providing wastewater treatment: ______________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 12.a.Doestheprojectsitecontain,orisitsubstantiallycontiguousto,abuilding,archaeologicalsite,ordistrict whichislistedontheNationalorStateRegisterofHistoricPlaces,orthathasbeendeterminedbythe CommissioneroftheNYSOfficeofParks,RecreationandHistoricPreservationtobeeligibleforlistingonthe StateRegisterofHistoricPlaces? archaeologicalsitesontheNYStateHistoricPreservationOffice(SHPO)archaeologicalsiteinventory? NO YES 13. a. Does any portion of the site of the proposed action, or lands adjoining the proposed action, contain wetlands or other waterbodies regulated by a federal, state or local agency? b.Would the proposed action physically alter, or encroach into, any existing wetland or waterbody? If Yes, identify the wetland or waterbody and extent of alterations in square feet or acres: _____________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES b.Istheprojectsite,oranyportionofit,locatedinoradjacenttoanareadesignatedassensitivefor Not applicable No water connection needed Please see Part 3 & attached correspondence with NYS OPRHP regarding the eligible locations. TW-8 Class 1 state regulated wetland 550 square feet of wetland will be disturbed during main replacement Area is served by TCAT Route 67 Please see Part 3 Page 3 of 3 14.Identify the typical habitat types that occur on, or are likely to be found on the project site. Check all that apply: □Shoreline □Forest Agricultural/grasslands Early mid-successional Wetland □Urban Suburban 15. Does the site of the proposed action contain any species of animal, or associated habitats, listed by the State or Federal government as threatened or endangered? NO YES 16. Is the project site located in the 100-yearflood plan?NO YES 17. Will the proposed action create storm water discharge, either from point or non-point sources? If Yes, a. Will storm water discharges flow to adjacent properties? b. Will storm water discharges be directed to established conveyance systems (runoff and storm drains)? If Yes, briefly describe: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 18. Does the proposed action include construction or other activities that wouldresult in the impoundment of water or other liquids (e.g., retention pond, waste lagoon, dam)? If Yes, explain thepurpose and sizeoftheimpoundment:______________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ _ NO YES 19. Has the site of the proposed action or an adjoining property been the location of an active or closed solid waste management facility? If Yes, describe: _______________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES 20.Has the site of the proposed action or an adjoining property been thesubject of remediation (ongoingor completed)for hazardous waste? If Yes, describe: _______________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NO YES I CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ABOVE IS TRUE AND ACCURATE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE Signature: _____________________________________________________Title:__________________________________Director of Engineering PRINT FORM 2024.10.02 15:56:23-04'00' Applicant/sponsor/name: __D _a__vi _d _ _O_' _S _h__e _a, _ _P _. _E __________________________________ D_ a_ t_e:_ __ __ __8/21/25_ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ ___ David O'Shea, P.E. Tuesday, May 28, 2024 2:10 PM Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a substitute for agency determinations. Part 1 / Question 7 [Critical Environmental Area] No Part 1 / Question 12a [National or State Register of Historic Places or State Eligible Sites] No Part 1 / Question 12b [Archeological Sites] Yes Part 1 / Question 13a [Wetlands or Other Regulated Waterbodies] Yes - Digital mapping information on local and federal wetlands and waterbodies is known to be incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Part 1 / Question 15 [Threatened or Endangered Animal] No Part 1 / Question 16 [100 Year Flood Plain] Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Part 1 / Question 20 [Remediation Site] No 1Short Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report This parcel is not part of the proposed Subdivision for PB review. Tuesday, May 28, 2024 2:21 PM Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a substitute for agency determinations. Part 1 / Question 7 [Critical Environmental Area] No Part 1 / Question 12a [National or State Register of Historic Places or State Eligible Sites] Yes Part 1 / Question 12b [Archeological Sites]Yes Part 1 / Question 13a [Wetlands or Other Regulated Waterbodies] Yes - Digital mapping information on local and federal wetlands and waterbodies is known to be incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Part 1 / Question 15 [Threatened or Endangered Animal] No Part 1 / Question 16 [100 Year Flood Plain]Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook. Part 1 / Question 20 [Remediation Site]No 1Short Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report Page 1 of 2 No, or small impact may occur Moderate to large impact may occur 1. Will the proposed action create a material conflict with an adopted land use plan or zoning regulations? 2. Will the proposed action result in a change in the use or intensity of use of land? 3. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of the existing community? 4. Will the proposed action have an impact on the environmental characteristics that caused the establishment of a Critical Environmental Area (CEA)? 5. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change in the existing level of traffic or affect existing infrastructure for mass transit, biking or walkway? 6. Will the proposed action cause an increase in the use of energy and it fails to incorporate reasonably available energy conservation or renewable energy opportunities? 7. Will the proposed action impact existing: a. public / private water supplies? b. public / private wastewater treatment utilities? 8. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of important historic, archaeological, architectural or aesthetic resources? 9. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change to natural resources (e.g., wetlands, waterbodies, groundwater, air quality, flora and fauna)? 10. Will the proposed action result in an increase in the potential for erosion, flooding or drainage problems? 11. Will the proposed action create a hazard to environmental resources or human health? PRINT FORM Agency Use Only [If applicable] Project: Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Date: PB September 16,2025 Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 2 - ImpactAssessment Part 2 istobecompletedbytheLeadAgency. Answer all of the following questions in Part 2 using the information contained in Part 1 and other materials submitted by the project sponsor or otherwise available to the reviewer. When answering the questions the reviewer should be guided by the concept “Have my responses been reasonable considering the scale and context of the proposed action?” Page 2 of 2 Check this box if you have determined, based on the information and analysis above, and any supporting documentation, that the proposed action may result in one or more potentially large or significant adverse impacts and an environmental impact statement is required. Check this box if you have determined, based on the information and analysis above, and any supporting documentation, that the proposed action will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. _________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Name of Lead Agency Date _________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Print or Type Name of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency Title of Responsible Officer _________________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Signature of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency Signature of Preparer (if different from Responsible Officer) For every question in Part 2 that was answered “moderate to large impact may occur”, or if there is a need to explain why a particular element of the proposed action may or will not result in a significant adverse environmental impact, please complete Part 3. Part 3 should, in sufficient detail, identify the impact, including any measures or design elements that have been included by the project sponsor to avoid or reduce impacts. Part 3 should also explain how the lead agency determined that the impact may or will not be significant. Each potential impact should be assessed considering its setting, probability of occurring, duration, irreversibility, geographic scope and magnitude. Also consider the potential for short- term, long-term and cumulative impacts. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED Town of Ithaca Town Board Rod Howe Supervisor Christine Balestra & Dave O'Shea PRINT FORM Town of Ithaca Planning Board Caitlin Cameron Chair Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements September 16, 2025 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Project Town of Ithaca Town Board, October 7, 2024 Town of Ithaca Planning Board, September 16, 2025 Short Environmental Assessment Form Attachment Part 3- Determination of Significance For every question in Part 2 that was answered “moderate to large impact may occur”, or if there is a need to explain why a p articular element of the proposed action may or will not result in a significant adverse environmental impact, please complete Part 3. Part 3 should, in sufficient detail, identify the impact, including any measures or design elements that have been included by the project sponsor to avoid or reduce impacts. Part 3 should also explain how the lead agency determined that the impact may or will not be significant. Each potential impact should be assessed considering its setting, probability of occurring, duration, irreversibility, geographic scope and magnitude. Also consider the potential for short- term, long-term and cumulative impacts. The proposed action involves repairing and upgrading two sanitary sewer lift stations and making associated repairs within the Floral Sanitary Sewer Shed, located in the Inlet Valley Area of the Town of Ithaca. The purpose is to meet existing and future service demands that have been envisioned in the Inlet Valley area. The two stations are labeled "Site 1 - Waldorf Pump Station," and "Site 2 - Wonderland Pump Station." The proposal will improve system resiliency, increase sewer shed capacity to meet existing and future demand, and remove potential hazards to town staff. A townwide sanitary sewer system study completed by Larson Design Group (LDG) in 2018 utilized the Town of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan and Town Code as guides to predict future sewer flows from development within the town. The Sewer Shed serves areas labeled as Established Neighborhood, Semi-Rural Neighborhood, TND Medium Density, Inlet Valley Gateway, Natural/Open, and Rural/Agricultural in the Comprehensive Plan. The future flow is estimated to increase by 39,006 gpd to Site 1 due to anticipated residential development and mixed-use development of the Inlet Valley Gateway. The majority of parcels within the Sewer Shed are developed and connected to the Floral system. However, approximately 9% are developed and utilizing onsite wastewater treatment systems. The last major sanitary sewer expansion project was installed in the early 1990’s. These onsite systems were primarily installed prior to the early 1990’s and therefore are approaching the end of their life. New anticipated development and redevelopment with increases in sewer contributions cannot be connected to the Floral system without increased risk of a sanitary sewage overflow. In terms of growth inducing impacts, the improvements made within the Floral Avenue Sewer Shed will increase system resiliency, reduce the risk of environmental contamination, and adequately accommodate existing and anticipated future development. The project is largely improving the sewer service that already exists and is available in the area. The additional capacity created by the project will be used by existing development that is currently not connected and future development that the town has already anticipated. The anticipated future development and associated densities will be controlled based on zoning regulations. Future developments will be infill development, and a SEQR review will be performed for each development project unless it is classified as Type II per the SEQR regulations. A large amount of the surrounding areas that is not within the system service area are NYS parks or lands with conservation easements or restrictions. It is unlikely that these areas will be developed and seek sewer service extensions. The proposed action will require additional property to install a generator at Site 2. The adjacent property owner, at 654 Elmira Rd, (parcel 33.-3-6), has agreed to subdivide and convey a small portion of their land to the Town of Ithaca. The proposed new parcel would encompass an existing easement area, and total parcel size will be approximately 0.12 acres after subdivision. There are no significant adverse environmental impacts associated with the proposed subdivision. Regarding Part 1, #12 a & b: Both sites were identified as being in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for archaeological sites. Site 2 was also identified to contain, or be substantially contiguous to a building, archaeological site, or district which is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks,Recreation, and Historic Preservation. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) was consulted for comments on the proposed project. OPRHP does not believe that archaeological and/or historical resources will be impacted at either site. The attachments contain correspondence regarding their opinions on the sites. Regarding Part 1, #13 a & b: A portion of Site 1 contains a NYS freshwater wetland known as TW-8. This wetland is approximately 28.2 acres in size. A wetland delineation of Site 1 was conducted to determine the wetland's extent. It is anticipated that a portion of the proposed work will be within the wetland in areas that were previously disturbed by previous infrastructure installation. The project will utilize tracking pads and minimize the disturbance to the wetland to the greatest extent possible. A DEC Freshwater Wetlands Permit will be required to perform the proposed work. It is anticipated that no permanent or significant adverse environmental impacts to the wetland will occur. Additionally, the project site is within a ½ mile of Negundo Woods, a significant natural community and a floodplain forest. It is anticipated that no significant adverse environmental impacts will occur to Negundo Woods. Finally, Site 2 is immediately adjacent to a regulated stream. No significant adverse environmental impacts to the stream are anticipated. Given the analysis above, the proposed action will not result in significant adverse environmental impacts. 4/18/24, 6:06 PM Environmental Resource Mapper https://gisservices.dec.ny.gov/gis/erm/ 1/2 En v i r o n m e n t a l R e s o u r c e M a p p e r +− 0 10 0 20 0 Se a r ch Too l s La yer s a n d L e g en d Water b o d y I n ven tor y/ P r i o r i t y W ater b o d i e s L i s t La k es a n d R es e r voi r s Es tu a r i e s Ri v er s a n d S t r ea m s Sh o r el i n e s St ate R eg u l a ted F r es h water W etl a n d s (O u t s i d e o f t h e A d i r on d a c k P ar k ) St ate R eg u l a ted W etl a n d C h e c k z on e Im p e r i l e d M u s s e l s Ot h e r W etl a n d L a yer s Refer en c e L a yer s Tel l M e M o r e. . . Ne e d A P er m i t ? Co n tac t s Ba s e M a p : NYS Aerial w Streets Us i n g t h i s m a p 4/18/24, 6:07 PM Environmental Resource Mapper https://gisservices.dec.ny.gov/gis/erm/ 1/2 En v i r o n m e n t a l R e s o u r c e M a p p e r +− 0 10 0 20 0 Se a r ch Too l s La yer s a n d L e g en d Mu s s e l S c r ee n i n g S t r ea m s Si g n i fican t N a tu r al C o m m u n i es Na tu r al C o m m u n i es N e a r T h i s L o c aon Ra r e P l a n ts o r A n i m a l s Ba s e F l o o d E l e vaon P l u s 7 2 / 7 5 I n c h e s S e a - l e vel Ri s e Li m i t t o M o d e r ate W ave A c on Ot h e r W etl a n d L a yer s Refer en c e L a yer s Tel l M e M o r e. . . Ne e d A P er m i t ? Co n tac t s Ba s e M a p : NYS Aerial w Streets Us i n g t h i s m a p 4/18/24, 6:09 PM Environmental Resource Mapper https://gisservices.dec.ny.gov/gis/erm/ 1/2 En v i r o n m e n t a l R e s o u r c e M a p p e r +− 0 30 0 60 0 Se a r ch Too l s La yer s a n d L e g en d Mu s s e l S c r ee n i n g S t r ea m s Si g n i fican t N a tu r al C o m m u n i es Na tu r al C o m m u n i es N e a r T h i s L o c aon Ra r e P l a n ts o r A n i m a l s Ba s e F l o o d E l e vaon P l u s 7 2 / 7 5 I n c h e s S e a - l e vel Ri s e Li m i t t o M o d e r ate W ave A c on Ot h e r W etl a n d L a yer s Refer en c e L a yer s Tel l M e M o r e. . . Ne e d A P er m i t ? Co n tac t s Ba s e M a p : NYS Aerial w Streets Us i n g t h i s m a p 4/24/24, 6:19 PM Environmental Resource Mapper https://gisservices.dec.ny.gov/gis/erm/ 1/2 En v i r o n m e n t a l R e s o u r c e M a p p e r +− 0 10 0 20 0 Se a r ch Too l s La yer s a n d L e g en d Water b o d y C l a s s i ficaon s f or R i v er s/ S t r ea m s Water b o d y C l a s s i ficaon s f or L a k es Water b o d y I n ven tor y/ P r i o r i t y W ater b o d i e s L i s t La k es a n d R es e r voi r s Es tu a r i e s Ri v er s a n d S t r ea m s Sh o r el i n e s St ate R eg u l a ted F r es h water W etl a n d s (O t id f th Ad i d k P k) Ot h e r W etl a n d L a yer s Refer en c e L a yer s Tel l M e M o r e. . . Ne e d A P er m i t ? Co n tac t s Ba s e M a p : NYS Aerial w Streets Us i n g t h i s m a p David L. O'Shea, PE Town of Ithaca 114 Seven Mile Dr Ithaca, NY 14850 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Site 1: WaldorfRe: County: Tompkins Town/City: Ithaca DearDavid L. O'Shea: 205 May 14, 2024 In response to your recent request, we have reviewed the New York Natural Heritage Program database with respect to the above project. Enclosed is a report of rare or state-listed animals and plants, and significant natural communities that our database indicates occur in the vicinity of the project site. For most sites, comprehensive field surveys have not been conducted; the enclosed report only includes records from our database. We cannot provide a definitive statement as to the presence or absence of all rare or state-listed species or significant natural communities. Depending on the nature of the project and the conditions at the project site, further information from on-site surveys or other sources may be required to fully assess impacts on biological resources. The presence of the plants and animals identified in the enclosed report may result in this project requiring additional review. For further guidance, and for information regarding other permits that may be required under state law for regulated areas or activities (e.g., regulated wetlands), please contact the NYS DEC Region 7 Office, Division of Environmental Permits, at dep.r7@dec.ny.gov. Heidi Krahling Environmental Review Specialist New York Natural Heritage Program Sincerely, Report on Rare Animals, Rare Plants, and Significant Natural CommunitiesNew York Natural Heritage Program The following rare plants, rare animals, and significant natural communities have been documented at the project site, or in its vicinity. We recommend that potential impacts of the proposed project on these species or communities be addressed as part of any environmental assessment or review conducted as part of the planning, permitting and approval process, such as reviews conducted under SEQR. Field surveys of the project site may be necessary to determine the status of a species at the site, particularly for sites that are currently undeveloped and may contain suitable habitat. Final requirements of the project to avoid, minimize, or mitigate potential impacts are determined by the lead permitting agency or the government body approving the project. The following plants are listed as Endangered or Threatened by New York State, and/or are considered rare by the New York Natural Heritage Program, and are a vulnerable natural resource of conservation concern. HERITAGE CONSERVATION STATUSSCIENTIFIC NAME NY STATE LISTINGCOMMON NAME Vascular Plants Endangered Critically Imperiled in NYS 15737 Bromus nottowayanusSatin Brome Documentedwithin100yardseastoftheprojectsite. 2018-07-18. Threatened Imperiled in NYS 9531 Equisetum palustreMarsh Horsetail Documentedwithin0.25milesoutheastoftheprojectsite. 1999-06-08: Formerly a large tamarack peat swamp with open marl pools, but today reduced to a small shrub swamp with a few remnant marl pools. Most of the area filled in to create a public baseball field. Approximately five acres of the swamp remain today. The plants are located at the north end of the swamp near the base of slope created by the fill for the baseball field. A shrub swamp is located immediately south of this plant population. A major state highway is found to the west of the swamp. This report only includes records from the NY Natural Heritage database. For most sites, comprehensive field surveys have not been conducted, and we cannot provide a definitive statement as to the presence or absence of all rare or state-listed species. Depending on the nature of the project and the conditions at the project site, further information from on-site surveys or other sources may be required to fully assess impacts on biological resources. If any rare plants or animals are documented during site visits, we request that information on the observations be provided to the New York Natural Heritage Program so that we may update our database. Information about many of the rare animals and plants in New York, including habitat, biology, identification, conservation, and management, are available online in Natural Heritage’s Conservation Guides at www.guides.nynhp.org. Page 1 of 15/14/2024 KATHY HOCHUL Governor RANDY SIMONS Commissioner Pro Tempore April 25, 2024 David O'Shea Senior Civil Engineer Town of Ithaca 114 Seven Mile Dr Ithaca, NY 14850 Re: SEQRA 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements 654 Elmira Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850 24PR03548 Dear David O'Shea: Thank you for requesting the comments of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). We have reviewed the project in accordance with the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980 (Section 14.09 of the New York Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law). These comments are those of the OPRHP and relate only to Historic/Cultural resources. They do not include potential environmental impacts to New York State Parkland that may be involved in or near your project. Based upon this review, it is the opinion of OPRHP that no properties, including archaeological and/or historic resources, listed in or eligible for the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places will be impacted by this project. If further correspondence is required regarding this project, please be sure to refer to the OPRHP Project Review (PR) number noted above. If you have any questions, please contact Bradley Russell at the following email address: Bradley.Russell@parks.ny.gov Sincerely, R. Daniel Mackay Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation Division for Historic Preservation New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Division for Historic Preservation, Peebles Island, PO Box 189, Waterford, New York 12188-0189 (518) 237-8643 • https://parks.ny.gov/shpo Site 2 June 28, 2024 Town of Ithaca c/o David O’Shea 114 Seven Mile Dr Ithaca, NY 14850 RE: Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Site 1: Waldorf GID-000523 Permit Jurisdiction Determination Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County Dear Mr. O’Shea: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has reviewed the submitted information for the above referenced project. According to the provided materials, the project consists of the replacement of an existing 10” sewer main pipe with a 12” pipe within the existing footprint at the Waldorf Pump Station (Site 1). Based upon our review of your inquiry, DEC offers the following comments: FRESHWATER WETLANDS The project site appears to be within the adjacent area and/or within New York State protected Freshwater Wetland, TW-8, Class 1. Physical disturbances within NYS regulated freshwater wetlands and their 100-foot adjacent areas require a Freshwater Wetland Permit. Wetland boundaries shown on our regulatory maps are approximate and a delineation may be required for the precise location of wetland boundaries. For more information regarding a wetland delineation, please contact Jean Foley at DEC Bureau of Ecosystem Health at (607)753-3095 ext. 263. Further, please contact your town officials and the United States Army Corps of Engineers Auburn Field Office, at (315) 255-8090, for any permitting they might require. PROTECTION OF WATERS Cayuga Inlet (NYS Waters Index #: Ont. 66-12-P 296-75), a regulated Class C(T) stream, is in the vicinity of the project area. Disturbance to the bed or banks of regulated streams (up to 50 ft from stream) will require an Article 15, Protection of Waters permit. Although a permit does not appear to be required, you are still responsible for ensuring that work shall not pollute any stream or waterbody. Care shall be taken to stabilize any disturbed areas promptly after construction, and all necessary precautions shall be taken to prevent contamination of the stream or waterbody by silt, sediment, fuels, solvents, lubricants, or any other pollutant associated with the project. RE: Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements GID-000523 June 28, 2024 Permit Jurisdiction Determination Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County Page 2 of 3 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION If the US Army Corps of Engineers requires a permit pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for the discharge to fill in Waters of the U.S., then a Section 401 Water Quality Certification will be required. Issuance of these certifications is delegated in New York State to DEC. If the project qualifies for a Nationwide Permit, it may be eligible for coverage under DEC’s Blanket Water Quality Certification. A determination on Corps jurisdiction and Nationwide Permit eligibility is likely necessary for a DEC jurisdictional determination. For more information, please visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6042.html. STATE-LISTED SPECIES Two records of sensitive resources were identified by this review. The following rare plants have been documented in the vicinity of the project site; Satin Brome (Bromus nottowayanus) and Marsh Horsetail (Equisetum palustre). For more information regarding potential disturbances to these plant species please contact Rich Ring, Chief Botanist at NYS Natural Heritage, (518)402- 8952. CULTURAL RESOURCES We have reviewed the statewide inventory of archaeological and historical resources maintained by the New York State Museum and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. These records indicate that the project is not located within an area considered to be sensitive with regard to archaeological or historical resources. For more information, please visit the New York State Office of Historic Preservation website at http://www.nysparks.com/shpo/. STORMWATER Soil disturbances of one or more acres of land from construction activities must obtain permit coverage under the NYSDEC SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities (GP-0-20-001) by submitting a Notice of Intent and developing and implementing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. For information on stormwater and the general permits, see the DEC website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/8468.html. For construction permits, if this site is within an MS4 area (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System), the stormwater plan must be reviewed and accepted by the municipality and the MS-4 Acceptance Form must be submitted to the Department. If the site is not within an MS4 area and other DEC permits are required, please contact the regional Division of Environmental Permits. SPDES INFORMATION The proposed project appears to include improvements to a sanitary sewage pump station and associated force main. In accordance with 6 NYCRR Part 750-2.10, NYSDEC Division of Water requires submittal of plans, specifications, and an engineering report for review and approval. Plans, specifications, and the engineering report shall be stamped by a NYS Licensed Professional Engineer and provided to Matthew Russo, P.E., of NYSDEC Division of Water. For further information please consult with Matthew Russo in DEC’s Division of Water at (315) 426-7505. RE: Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements GID-000523 June 28, 2024 Permit Jurisdiction Determination Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County Page 3 of 3 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Other permits from this Department or other agencies may be required for projects conducted on this property now or in the future. Also, regulations applicable to the location subject to this determination occasionally are revised and you should, therefore, verify the need for permits if your project is delayed or postponed. This determination regarding the need for permits will remain effective for a maximum of one year unless you are otherwise notified. Applications may be downloaded from our website at www.dec.ny.gov under “Programs” then “Division of Environmental Permits.” Please contact this office if you have questions regarding the above information. Thank you. Sincerely, Melanie Kukko Environmental Analyst Division of Environmental Permits, Region 7 Telephone No. (315) 426-7482 cc: J. Stercho, R7 DEP M. Russo, R7 DOW J. Foley, R7 BEH 1 PROPOSED RESOLUTION: Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval Wonderland Two-Lot Subdivision 654 Elmira Road Tax Parcel No. 33.-3-6 Town of Ithaca Planning Board September 16, 2025 WHEREAS: 1. This is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed two-lot subdivision at 654 Elmira Road, located in the Neighborhood Commercial Zone. The project includes subdividing a +/- 0.12 acre parcel from a +/- 4.04 acre parcel containing the Rodeway Inn & Suites. The +/- 0.12 acre parcel will be conveyed to the Town of Ithaca for municipal sewer improvements, in accordance with the 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project. Jamna Hospitality, Inc., Owner; Town of Ithaca, Applicant; David O’Shea, Director of Engineering, Agent; 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, in an uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the project, has on September 16, 2025, made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, submitted by the applicant, and Parts 2 and 3 prepared by the Town Planning staff; 3. Per the Inter-governmental Agreement between the Town of Ithaca and the Tompkins County Planning and Sustainability Department, dated August 3, 2004, residential subdivisions of fewer than 5 lots, all of which comply with Tompkins County Sanitary Code requirements, and do not involve new local roads or streets directly accessing a State or county road, are of local, rather than inter-community or county-wide concern, and are therefore not subject to referral to the Tompkins County Planning and Sustainability Department under New York State General Municipal Law, Article 12-B, §§239-l, -m, and -n; and 4. The Planning Board on September 16, 2025, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a report prepared by the Town of Ithaca Engineering Department, titled “Engineering Report for 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project,” dated September 3, 2024; a subdivision map titled “Survey map showing parcel to be conveyed to the Town of Ithaca, Located at 654 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York,” prepared by Williams & Edsall, Land Surveyors, PC, dated 8/6/2025; and other application materials; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Subdivision Checklists, having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in a significant alteration of neither the purpose of subdivision control nor the policies enunciated or implied by the Town Board; and 2. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision at 654 Elmira Road, as shown on the report and survey map noted in Whereas #4 above, subject to the following condition: Page 2 of 2 a. Submission for signing by the Chairperson of the Planning Board of an original and three dark lined prints of the approved final subdivision plat, including the original signature and seal of the registered land surveyor, prior to filing with the Tompkins County Clerk Office; and submission of a copy of the receipt of filing to the Town of Ithaca Planning Department. ENGINEERING REPORT FOR 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvements Project September 3, 2024 Town Of Ithaca County Of Tompkins State Of New York POSS ID: NYS700040 PREPARED BY: David O’Shea, P.E., Director of Engineering Town of Ithaca Engineering Department 215 N Tioga Street Ithaca, NY 14850 Table of Contents Execu ve Summary ...................................................................................................................................... 1 Project Background and History .................................................................................................................. 1 I. Site Informa on ............................................................................................................................... 1 II. Ownership and Service Area ........................................................................................................... 4 IV. Defini on and Problem ................................................................................................................... 6 V. Financial Status ................................................................................................................................ 7 Alterna ve Analysis A – No Ac on .............................................................................................................. 8 I. Descrip on ...................................................................................................................................... 8 II. Cost Es mate ................................................................................................................................... 8 III. Non-Monetary Factors ................................................................................................................ 8 Alterna ve Analysis B – Decrease Site 2 Discharge Rate ............................................................................ 9 I. Descrip on ...................................................................................................................................... 9 II. Cost Es mate ................................................................................................................................. 10 III. Non-Monetary Factors .............................................................................................................. 12 Alterna ve Analysis C – Increasing Site 1 Discharge Rate ......................................................................... 12 I. Descrip on .................................................................................................................................... 12 II. Cost Es mate ................................................................................................................................. 13 III. Non-Monetary Factors .............................................................................................................. 16 Summary and Comparison of Alterna ve ................................................................................................. 16 Recommended Alterna ves ....................................................................................................................... 17 I. Basis of Selec on ................................................................................................................................. 17 II. Cost and Schedule .............................................................................................................................. 17 III. Next Steps ........................................................................................................................................ 18 Maps and Figures ....................................................................................................................................... 19 1 Execu ve Summary The Inlet Valley sanitary sewer shed (Sewer Shed) within the Town of Ithaca was evaluated to determine available capacity within the conveyance system and for compliance with applicable standards. The evalua on began with a town wide sewer study that was done by Larson Design Group (LDG) in 2018. Using the Town of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan and zoning as a guide to predict future sewer flows from development LDG iden fied areas of the Sewer Shed that could not meet exis ng and future service demands. Further evalua on of the Sewer Shed iden fied that 4 pipe segments do not have sufficient capacity to convey exis ng flows and will not be able to support the future growth of Inlet Valley. An evalua on of the two major sanitary sewer li sta ons within the Sewer Shed system was conducted. Both sta ons are in need of repairs and improvements to improve their resiliency, increase sewer shed capacity to meet exis ng and future demand, and to remove poten al hazards to town staff. Three alterna ves with various project scopes were iden fied, analyzed, and compared. The alterna ves were as follows: • Alterna ve A: No Ac on • Alterna ve B: Decrease Site 2 Discharge Rate • Alterna ve C: Increase Site 1 Discharge Rate It is recommended to further pursue Alterna ve B. Alterna ve B is the most cost effec ve, shortest construc on dura on, and will have the least impact on the traveling public that achieves an increase in capacity within the Sewer Shed that can support exis ng and future development. Project Background and History I. Site Informa on The Floral Sanitary Sewer System extends from the City of Ithaca and Town of Ithaca municipal boundary southwest to the vicinity of Enfield Falls Rd within the Town of Ithaca. This area of the Town is referred to as the “Inlet Valley”. There are two municipal sewage li sta ons, 151 manholes, approximately 33,350 linear feet of 6” to 12” gravity main, and 5,500 linear feet of 6” to 8” force main that make up the Floral system. The system conveys residen al, commercial, and industrial sanitary sewage. This project focuses on improvements of the two sewage li sta ons within the system. The loca on of these li sta on sites can be viewed on the map en tled “Map 1: Site Overview Map” located within the Maps and Figures sec on of this report. Site 1 is known as the Waldorf Pump Sta on. This sta on is located adjacent to 855 Five Mile Dr (NY RT. 13A). A more detailed loca on of this site can be viewed on the map en tled “Site 1: Waldorf”, which can be found within the Maps and Figures sec on of this report. 2 Site 2 is known as the Wonderland Pump Sta on. This sta on is located adjacent to 654 Elmira Rd (NY RT. 13). A more detailed loca on of this site can be viewed on the map en tled “Site 2: Wonderland”, which can be found within the Maps and Figures sec on of this report. The Natural Resources Conserva on Service (NRCS) soil survey tool was u lized to determine various geologic condi ons within the project areas. The predominant soil types within the proposed Site 1 project area are Howard Gravelly Loam (HdD) (62.5% of the area of interest (AOI), hydraulic soil group A) and Wayland Soils Complex (Ws) (37.5% of the AOI, hydraulic soil group B/D). Bedrock is rated to be at a depth greater than 200 cen meters (6.5 feet). The HdD soils within the site have a water table depth ra ng of >200 cm (6.5 feet) and the Ws soils have a ra ng of 0 cm. The loca on of these soils and addi onal informa on can be found accompanying Figure 1 located within the Maps and Figures sec on. The predominant soil types within the proposed Site 2 project area are Eel Silt Loam (Em) (5.8% of the AOI, hydraulic soil group B/D) and Howard Gravelly Loam (HdC) (94.2 of the AOI, hydraulic soil group A). Bedrock is rated to be at a depth greater than 200 cen meters (6.5 feet). The HdC soils within the site have a water table depth ra ng of >200 cm (6.5 feet) and the Em soils have a ra ng of 54 cm (1.77 feet). The loca on of these soils and addi onal informa on can be found accompanying Figure 2 located within the Maps and Figures sec on. The New York State Department of Environmental Conserva on (DEC) digital Environment Resource Mapper (ERM) was reviewed to determine if any environmental resources (including but not limited to waterbodies, endangered species, wetlands, rare plants and animals, and significant natural communi es) are within the vicinity or present on either site. Maps produced by the ERM for Site 1 and Site 2 can be found within Figure 3 and Figure 4, respec vely, located within the Maps and Figures sec on. Each of the iden fied resources were further reviewed for poten al impacts and presence on the site. The ERM indicated that Site 1 may contain state regulated wetlands, rare plants and animals, and is in the vicinity of a significant natural community. A por on of Site 1 contains a NYS freshwater wetland known as TW-8. This wetland is a class 1 and approximately 28.2 acres in size. A wetland delinea on of Site 1 was conducted to determine the wetlands extent. It is an cipated that a por on of the proposed work will be within the wetland in areas that were previously disturbed by the ini al infrastructure installa on. The project will u lize tracking pads and minimize the disturbance to the wetland to the greatest extent possible. A DEC Freshwater Wetlands Permit will be required to perform the proposed work. It is an cipated that no permanent impacts to the wetland will occur. A request was submi ed to NY Natural Heritage (NYNH) for a project screening for Site 1 to receive addi onal informa on on poten al endangerer, threatened, or rare plants and animals. NYNH iden fied Sa n Brome, a NY state listed endangered species, 3 was previously iden fied within 100 yards of the site and Marsh Horsetail, a NY state threatened species, was previously documented within 0.25 miles of the site. The informa on provided by NYNH can be found in Figure 5 located in the Maps and Figures sec on. Neither species was iden fied on the project site during site visits. Although Sa n Brome (scien fic name No away Brome) was not iden fied on the project site, NYNH was consulted regarding disturbance to the species and remedial measures. NYNH iden fied invasive species as the main threat to this species. This species cannot be transplanted or reseeded. It was recommended to replant disturbed areas with annual rye grass to stabilize the area and to help prevent coloniza on of invasive species. These recommenda ons along with other best management prac ces, such as ensuring equipment is clean upon arrival to the site, reusing na ve soil as fill for trenches, using construc on mats to limit soil disturbance, and limi ng the area of disturbance will help minimize poten al impacts to the environment and this species of plant that is located nearby. Marsh Horsetail (scien fic name Equisetum Palustre) has a popula on 0.25 miles southeast of the project across a major state highway. This plant will not be affected by the construc on on either site. The project site is within a ½ mile of the Negundo Woods, a significant natural community. The Negundo Woods are a floodplain forest. It is an cipated that no impacts will occur to the Negundo Woods due to this project. The ERM indicated that Site 2 is immediate adjacent to a NY regulated class c stream. No impacts to the stream are an cipated to occur from this project. The Cultural Resource Informa on System (CRIS) and Environment Assessment Mapper (EAF) were reviewed to iden fy if historic or archaeological features are within, or adjacent to the project sites. Both sites were iden fied as being in or adjacent to an area designated as sensi ve for archaeological sites. Site 2 was also iden fied to contain, or is substan ally con guous to, a building, archaeological site, or district which is listed on the Na onal or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recrea on and Historic Preserva on to be eligible for lis ng on the State Register of Historic Places. The Office of Parks, Recrea on and Historic Preserva on (OPRHP) was consulted for comments on the proposed project. OPRHP does not believe that archaeological and/or historical resources will be impacted at either site. The correspondence regarding their opinions on the sites can be found within Figure 6 located within the Maps and Figures Sec on. A por on of the Site 1 work is within the 500-year flood plain. Work completed in this area will not permanently alter topography. It is an cipated that no impacts to the flood plain will occur due to this project. As previously men oned, a small por on of Site 1 encompasses a wetland. The wetland may be considered a “Water of the U.S.”. These waters are under the jurisdic on 4 of the United States Army Core of Engineers’ (USACE) and sec ons 404 and 401 of the Clean Water Act may apply. Though jurisdic on is not expected a preliminary jurisdic onal determina on request has been submi ed. If the project site is within USACE jurisdic on, a joint applica on will be submi ed under Na onwide Permit 58 to the USACE and DEC. Na onwide Permit 58 authorizes U lity Line Ac vi es for Water and Other Substances in accordance with sec on 404 requirements. A Blanket Water Quality Cer fica on would be sought from the DEC to meet sec on 401 requirements. See Figure 7 in the Maps and Figures sec on for DEC jurisdic onal le er discussing permits needed. Site 1 and Site 2 are located within an area designated as a Poten al Environmental Jus ce Area and a Disadvantaged Community. The proposed project would provide capacity within the system for addi onal sewage conveyance. The capacity would be sufficient for the development of parcels within the sewer shed to the densi es allowed by zoning. The Town of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan envisioned the Inlet Valley Gateway Overlay District along Elmira Road, to be a “mix of office, small-scale retail, hospitality, and tourism and agritourism uses, with low-impact light industrial, ar sanal industrial, and skilled trade uses.” The sewer capacity gained by the proposed project would allow for these uses to be developed within the area. As future development occurs within the Overlay District, ameni es or services could be constructed that may be u lized by the people residing in the vicinity. Future development may also lead to an increase in employment opportuni es within the community. II. Ownership and Service Area This sanitary sewer system is owned and maintained by the Town of Ithaca. The sewage is received and treated by the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility (IAWWTF). The IAWWTF is operated and maintained by the City of Ithaca. The system primarily serves residen al users with some industrial and commercial users contribu ng. A townwide sanitary sewer system study completed by Larson Design Group in 2018 utilized the Comprehensive Plan and zoning as a guide to predict future sewer flows from development within the Town. The Sewer Shed serves areas labeled as Established Neighborhood, Semi-Rural Neighborhood, TND Medium Density, Inlet Valley Gateway, Natural/Open, and Rural/Agricultural in the Comprehensive Plan. The future flow is estimated to increase by 39,006 gpd due to residential development and mixed-use development of the Inlet Valley Gateway. Past census results for the Town of Ithaca can be found below in Table 1. The Town of Ithaca popula on increased on average 0.92% annually. The projected 2030 popula on is 24,410 people based on the data 2020 census and average annual increase. Table 1: U.S. Census Popula on Data and Projected Popula on Year 2000 2010 2020 2030 (projected) Popula on 18,7101 19,9302 22,2832 24,410 5 1. h ps://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/files2/planning/census/data_files/A 2%20SF1%20Data%202000%20PDF.pdf 2. h ps://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ithacatowntompkinscountynewyork Approximately 67% of parcels within the sewer shed are developed and connected to the Floral system. Approximately 9% are developed and are u lizing onsite wastewater treatment systems. Approximately 22% are undeveloped with access to the Floral system and 2% are undeveloped without direct access to the Floral system. The last major sanitary sewer expansion project was installed in the early 1990’s. The Code of the Town of Ithaca requires structures to connect to the municipal sanitary sewer unless an exemp on is granted. Based on the above, it can be assumed that these onsite systems were primarily installed prior to the early 1990’s and therefore are approaching the end of their life. The loca ons of the parcels described above can be viewed on the map en tled “Map 3: Sewer Access” found within the Maps and Figures sec on of this report. III. Exis ng Facili es and Present Condi on A portion of the Floral collection system was originally installed in 1978. The system was expanded in 1991. The network is made primarily of pvc pipe and precast concrete manholes with iron frames and covers. There are two municipal sewage lift stations, 151 manholes, approximately 33,350 linear feet of 6” to 12” gravity main, and 5,500 linear feet of 6” to 8” force main that make up the Floral system. A vast majority of the system conveys sewage via gravity to one of the two pump stations which were installed in 1991. The Wonderland Pumpstation located at Site 2 lifts the sewage to a gravity network that conveys the sewage to the Waldorf Pumpstation located at Site 1. The system conveys residential, commercial, and industrial sanitary sewage. Notable users include multiple hotels/motels, Ithaca Beer, Town of Ithaca Public Works Facility, Tompkins County Highway Department, NYS Parks, and Ithaca City School District Transportation Facility. This system is a publicly owned sewer system (POSS) with an identification number of NYS700040. The Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Facility POSS ID is NY0026638. The treatment facility and collection system are located within DEC Region 7. There are no known sanitary sewer overflows within the Floral sewer shed or any other compliance issues. The Wonderland Pumpstation receives an average flow of 37,827.4 gpd and a peak flow of 139.2 gpm. The Waldorf Pumpstation receives an average flow of 112,023 gpd and a peak flow of 1,015 gpm. These existing flows and future flows can be found in Figure 8 of the Maps and Figures Section. The Wonderland Pump Station contains two Flygt CP 3152 MT 3~ 432 20 HP submersible pumps. The pumps operate as an alternating lead-lag operation. The pumps were installed in 1991 and appear to operate at a TDH of 69’ with a discharge rate of 635 gpm. The pumpstation is equipped with a data logger and an emergency alarm callout notification system. A manual transfer switch and trailer mounted generator provide emergency power to the station when needed. The precast concrete wet well and valve 6 pit appear to be in an acceptable condition with only a few minor repairs needed. The electrical pump control panel has corrosion and is in poor condition. The station utilized approximately 3,696 kwh of electricity in 2023. The Waldorf Pump Station contains two Flygt 3171 454 30 HP submersible pumps. The pumps operate as an alternating lead-lag operation. The station was built in 1991. One pump was replaced in 2013 and the other in 2018. The station operates at a TDH of 75’ with a discharge rate of 621 gpm. The pumpstation is equipped with a data logger and an emergency alarm callout notification system. A manual transfer switch and trailer mounted generator provide emergency power to the station when needed. The precast concrete wet well and valve pit appear to need repair. Spalling of concrete, cracks, and water infiltration were observed. The electrical pump control panel has corrosion and is in poor condition. The station utilized approximately 9,241 kwh of electricity in 2023. Each pipe segment within the main conveyance route in the Floral system was analyzed to determine pipe capacity, 80% depth pipe capacity, existing flow to each segment, and proposed future flow to each pipe segment utilizing a sewer model in ArcGis. The model identified four pipe segments that did not have sufficient capacity to convey the existing flows. The model was then utilized to analyze future flows and associated impacts on the gravity conveyance system. For this analysis it was assumed that all parcels with access to the existing system were developed to the densities allowed by zoning. There were no additional sections that could not convey the future flows. The capacities of the mains identified were further reviewed. These calculations can be found in Figure 9 and the location of these mains can be viewed on the map entitled “Floral Gravity Sewer Capacity” located within the Maps and Figures Section. IV. Defini on and Problem Site 1 and Site 2 are separated geographically by approximately 0.7 miles. When a power outage occurs in the area, the outage usually encompasses both sta ons. This is problema c as the systems operate essen ally in a series. A portable generator is connected to the Wonderland Pump Sta on to discharge the wet well. The generator is then disconnected and moved to the Waldorf Pump Sta on to then discharge that wet well. This situa on creates a poten al safety hazard due to the numerous connec ons, disconnec ons, and opera on of the transfer switches that are required to keep moving the generator between the two sites. Having a sole generator for emergency opera on during power outages for both sta ons is not very reliable. If this equipment was to fail, both sta ons would not be operable during the event. The electrical pump control panel at both sites have corrosion. This corrosion has caused holes to form. These holes allow for the possible intrusion of insects, varmint, and water. Intrusion of these items could lead to damage, electrical short circui ng, and total sta on failure. Corrosion is prevalent on the ver cal supports of the cabinets. As previously men oned, the precast structures at both sta ons need repair to various degrees. Infiltra on and Inflow (I&I) into the structures allows water into the system that does not need to be treated. This increases electricity usage in conveying the sanitary sewer and increases treatment costs at the treatment facility. Spalling of the precast has created exposed aggregate and concrete that is likely to con nue to deteriorate due to infiltra on of water and hydrogen sulfide. 7 Each sta on was reviewed to determine compliance with manufacturer opera ng requirements and the 2014 edi on of the Great Lakes – Upper Mississippi River Board of State and Provincial Public Health and Environmental Manager “Recommended Standards for Wastewater Facili es” (10 State Standards). This analysis can be found in Figure 10 in the Maps and Figures Sec on. The Waldorf Pump Sta ons receives flow from the Wonderland Pump Sta on and the private Amabel Pump Sta on. The discharge rates of these sta ons combined with the average contribu ng gravity flow is greater than the discharge rate of one of the Waldorf Pumps. Modeling so ware was u lized to determine the stage-storage of the wet well. The results showed the wet well level could raise to a level higher than the incoming gravity main and cause a system surcharge under certain scenarios/condi ons. The surcharge has the poten al to cause blockages and to reach an eleva on that would backflow into connected user. Raw sewage entering a user’s structure creates a health hazard. The pipe capacity for each pipe segment was determined at a depth of flow equal to 80% of the pipe diameter. This value is used as the maximum allowed capacity for each pipe segment. The reduced flow capacity is used as a minimal factor of safety to help ensure there is capacity for infiltra on and inflow that may occur, unknown future customers, and changes in customer use/contribu on. Four pipe segments were determined to be not adequately sized to handle the exis ng average and peak flows. These calcula ons can be found in Figure 9 and the loca on of these mains can be viewed on the map en tled “Floral Gravity Sewer Capacity” located within the Maps and Figures Sec on. New developments and redevelopment with increases in sewer contribu ons cannot be connected to the sanitary sewer system without increased risk of a sanitary sewage overflow. Alterna vely, these developments would need to construct individual onsite wastewater treatment systems. This is not desirable due to costs to construct these systems, costs to maintain these systems, the limited lifespans of these systems, and the presence of environmentally sensi ve areas, such as surface water bodies, wetlands, and similar features within the area. V. Financial Status The Town of Ithaca charges customers a quarterly fee to convey and treat the sanitary sewage. The Town of Ithaca is a town-wide benefi ed area, therefore all eligible real proper es are assessed and charged an annual benefit fee for capital improvements and district indebtedness from past improvements. The Town of Ithaca chargers sewer consumers an opera on and maintenance fee for conveyance and treatment in addi on to the annual benefit fee. The 2024 rate for treatment and maintenance of conveyance infrastructure was developed based on es mated treatment costs and historical potable water consump on values. The rate is $6.56 per 1000 gallons. It is an cipated that this project will not increase the treatment cost component of the rate as the system is not being expanded nor is it increasing its customer base. It is an cipated that the maintenance of conveyance infrastructure component of the fee will not increase. The only proposed components that will require addi onal maintenance when compared to the exis ng condi ons are the 8 permanent generators. It is an cipated that the cost to maintain the proposed generators will be less than $1,000 annually which equates to less than $0.002 per 1000 gallons. The Town as 42% owner of the Ithaca Area Wastewater Treatment Plant contributes to debt re-payment for the plant. The Town is obligated to pay debt that is approved by the Town and incurred at the plant. The 2024 benefit fee is $98.56 per unit. If the project is bonded at a rate of 4.25% with a 30-year term the resul ng annual debt service would be approximately $76,250. If the benefit fee is the sole source of funds for repayment of the bond, the fee would increase $7.50 per unit in year one (2025). The above increase in benefit fee is specula ve as the rate and term of bonding will not be known un l a bond is sought. Analysis Alterna ve Analysis A – No Ac on I. Descrip on The No Ac on alterna ve would be to leave the system in its current condi on. This alterna ve would result in various system components having insufficient capacity for the exis ng flows. An increase in contribu ng flow would exacerbate the issue. No expansion or growth could be supported by the system. This alternate is the most likely to result in a Sanitary Sewer Overflow and poses a risk of nega vely impac ng public health. II. Cost Es mate This ac on would not result in immediate costs for the Town. However, this op on could result in increased costs for Town cons tuents that are performing construc on due to the costs associated with the design and construc on of an onsite wastewater treatment system. This alterna ve would not impact customer rate or sewer benefit unit fee. III. Non-Monetary Factors Pursuing Alternate A could have a nega ve effect on the surrounding environment, community, and wetlands. Raw sewage could raise to a level higher than the incoming gravity main at Site 1 and cause a system surcharge under certain scenarios/condi ons. The surcharge has the poten al to cause blockages and to reach an eleva on that would backflow into connected customers and the environment. This scenario could also occur in the four gravity segments that are undersized. It is likely that the reliability of the system will decrease as components will con nue to corrode and further deteriorate. This corrosion is also likely to lead to total system failure if it is not corrected. Emergency opera on reliability is not increased and associated hazards to Town employees are not decreased in this alterna ve. Alternate A does not allow for an increase in flow contribu ons to the sewer system. This forces businesses who come to the area to build and maintain an onsite sewer system. The increased ini al cost would discourage development in the area rather than create new opportuni es. 9 Alterna ve Analysis B – Decrease Site 2 Discharge Rate I. Descrip on Alterna ve Analysis B includes decreasing the discharge rate from Site 2, installing new control panels and components at both sites, installing an onsite natural gas emergency generator at both sites, enlarging approximately 73 L.F. of gravity sewer main, minor site improvements, and associated appurtenances. This alterna ve also includes concreate repair, leak stopping, coa ng of the wet wells, and replacement of various interior wet well pump components. A schema c layout of these improvements can be found in Figure 11 located in the Maps and Figures sec on. 10 State Standards recommend a minimum velocity of 2 /s be maintained within the forcemain. The minimum discharge rate to produce a 2 /sec velocity within a 6” force main is 170 gallons per minute (gpm). A velocity of 3.5 /s and greater will re- suspend solids that have se led within the forcemain. A discharge rate between 300 gpm and 350 gpm is sufficient to achieve this velocity, see Figure 12. This alterna ve proposes the installa on of variable frequency drives (VFDs) at both sites and installa on of new submersible pumps at Site 2. The new pumps and VFDs at Site 2 will decrease the pumping rate from 635 gpm to approximately 331 gpm. Decreasing the pumping rate from Site 2 decreases the number of pipe segments with insufficient capacity from 4 to 1. The decreased discharge rate also decreases the flow rate entering the Site 1 sta on to a rate less than the pump discharge. A surcharge will not occur if the pump discharge rate is greater than incoming flow. The pumps and VFDS at Site 2 will be selected so if the Site 1 pumping system is upgraded in the future, the discharge rate at Site 2 can be increased. U lizing a VFD to start a pump generally prolongs the life of the pump and creates a more sustainable system. VFD’s also allow for the varying of pump discharge rates during startup, opera on, and shutdown. These upgrades and the new control panels will increase the reliability of both sta ons and decrease the risks of poten al failure due to electrical components. The proposed concrete repair, leak stopping, and coa ng to each sta on will correct current deficiencies and prolong the useful life of the exis ng vaults and wetwells at both sites. Addi onal property rights to install the proposed generator at Site 2 are required. Approximately 0.06 acres of addi onal area is proposed in addi on to the exis ng easement area. The property owner of 654 Elmira Rd, parcel 33.-3-6, has indicated they are in favor of a subdivision of land. The proposed parcel would encompass the exis ng easement, the proposed addi onal area, and be approximately 0.12 acres in size. The proposed generator at Site 1 would be located on land owned in fee by the NYS Department of Transporta on (DOT). It is an cipated that the DOT will approve the site improvements and issue a permit for the proposed work. The proposed project schedule can be found below in Table 2. This schedule may be altered due to permit review and approval melines. 10 Table 2: Alt. B Schedule II. Cost Es mate The proposed cost of this alterna ve is $1,278,685.00. Cost es mates are provided based on individual sites. Public interest order September 2024 Project Design/ Permit Submissions October 2024 – November 2024 Bid November 2024 Construc on Start January 2025 Project Comple on October 2025 11 Table 3: Alt. B Cost Es mates Site 1 INLET VALLEY PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS - SITE 1 BID ITEM No. BID ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT EST. QUAN- TITY UNIT PRICE ITEM PRICES 1 12" PVC SEWER MAIN VIA OPEN TRENCH LF 73 $300.00 $21,900.00 2 GENERATOR EA 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 3 MANHOLE LINER SF 684 $17.10 $11,696.40 4 WETWELL EPOXY SF 684 $21.10 $14,432.40 5 PUMP STATION COMPONENTS EA 1 $312,000.00 $312,000.00 6 BYPASS PUMPING EA 1 $40,000.00 $40,000.00 7 MISCELLANEOUS SITE IMPROVEMENTS EA 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 TOTAL $530,028.80 ENGINEERING/LEGAL FEES/PROPERTY ACQUISITION 5% $26,501.44 CONTINGENCY 10% $53,002.88 BONDS, MOBILIZATION, MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC 10% $53,002.88 TOTAL COST $662,536.00 Table 4: Alt. B Cost Es mates Site 2 INLET VALLEY PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS - SITE 2 BID ITEM No. BID ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT EST. QUAN- TITY UNIT PRICE ITEM PRICES 1 CRUSHED STONE TON 49 $100.00 $4,900.00 2 GENERATOR EA 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 3 MANHOLE LINER SF 352 $17.10 $6,019.20 4 BYPASS PUMPING EA 1 $40,000.00 $40,000.00 5 PUMP STATION COMPONETS EA 1 $312,000.00 $312,000.00 6 MISCELLANEOUS SITE IMPROVEMENTS EA 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 TOTAL $492,919.20 ENGINEERING/LEGAL FEES/PROPERTY AQCUISITION 5% $24,645.96 CONTINGENCY 10% $49,291.92 BONDS, MOBILIZATION, MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC 10% $49,291.92 TOTAL COST $616,149.00 12 Annual Opera on and Maintenance (O&M) will not significantly increase due to most of the equipment requiring the same O&M as exis ng equipment. The financial status sec on of this report contains addi onal informa on. III. Non-Monetary Factors The improved system would be able to support the connec on of exis ng structures that are currently u lizing on-site treatment systems. The system will also be able to support future development that aligns with the Town’s comprehensive plan and vision for the Inlet Valley. Future developments would include businesses and housing, which could poten ally result in more employment opportuni es in the area and ameni es. Installa on of onsite generators increases the resiliency of both sta ons to perform during a power outage or emergency event. Sta ons will be able to switch to backup power automa cally, which will allow them to operate in a normal state. The safety hazard to Town employees of plugging, unplugging, and moving the portable generator is removed. Alterna ve Analysis C – Increasing Site 1 Discharge Rate I. Descrip on Alternate Analysis C includes all improvements and repairs suggested in Alternate B, increasing the discharge rate from Site 1, enlarging 4 pipe segments (approximately 480 L.F) of gravity sewer main upstream from Site 1, and enlarging over 2,000 L.F. of gravity sewer main downstream from Site 1. Approximately over 2,000 L.F. of gravity sewer main downstream of the pump discharge is currently undersized. Figure 13 located within the Maps and Figures sec ons outlines these calcula ons. Spot checking of the system was performed to verify these calcula ons. Surcharging above the pipes was observed within the manholes that were reviewed. The level did not rise to an eleva on that would surcharge. This alterna ve would increase the pump discharge rate at Site 1. An increased rate of discharge would exacerbate the surcharging men oned above. The increased pumping rate that would be needed to prevent surcharging in the wetwell was not determined due to the large cost to replace the gravity main downstream from the site that is currently undercapacity with the exis ng discharge rate. Addi onal segments of pipe downstream may need replacement based on the pumping rate needed if this alterna ve was further explored. 13 A tenta ve Alterna ve C schedule is below. Table 5: Alt. C Schedule II. Cost Es mate The total cost of this alterna ve is $2,316,974.00. This project would include all costs associated with Alternate B plus the cost of replacing 480 L.F upstream from Site 1 and approximately 2,000 L.F. of downstream from Site 1. Please see Table 6 and Table 7 below for the site-specific cost es mates. The undercapacity main located downstream from Site 1 is jointly owned between the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca. The pipes are also known as Joint Interceptors. The cost of replacement would be split between the town and city based on ownership percentage. The town’s contribu on would be $1,826,374.00. Please see Table 8 below for the cost es mate for this por on of work. This project cost could be greater if the number of pipe segments needs to be increased due to the pumping rate. Public interest order September 2024 Project Design/ Permit Submissions October 2024 – January 2025 Bid February 2025 – March 2025 Construc on Start March 2025 Project Comple on December 2025 14 Table 6: Alt. C Cost Es mate Site 1 INLET VALLEY PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS - SITE 1 BID ITEM No. BID ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT EST. QUAN- TITY UNIT PRICE ITEM PRICES 1 12" PVC SEWER MAIN VIA OPEN TRENCH LF 480 $300.00 $144,000.00 2 GENERATOR EA 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 3 MANHOLE LINER SF 684 $17.10 $11,696.40 4 WETWELL RESTORATION SF 684 $21.10 $14,432.40 5 PUMP STATION COMPONETS EA 1 $312,000.00 $312,000.00 6 BYPASS PUMPING EA 1 $40,000.00 $40,000.00 7 MISCELLANEOUS (Site Improvements) EA 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 TOTAL= $652,128.80 ENGINEERING/LEGAL FEES/ PROPERTY AQCUISITION 5% $32,606.44 CONTINGENCY 10% $65,212.88 BONDS, MOBILIZATION, MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC 10% $65,212.88 TOTAL COST $815,161.00 15 Table 7: Alt. C Cost Es mate Site 2 INLET VALLEY PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS - SITE 2 BID ITEM No. BID ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT EST. QUAN- TITY UNIT PRICE ITEM PRICES 1 CRUSHED STONE TON 49 $100.00 $4,900.00 2 GENERATOR EA 1 $120,000.00 $120,000.00 3 BYPASS PUMPING EA 1 $40,000.00 $40,000.00 4 MANHOLE LINER SF 352 $17.10 $6,019.20 5 PUMP STATION COMPONETS EA 1 $312,000.00 $312,000.00 6 MISCELLANEOUS (Site Improvements) EA 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 TOTAL= $492,919.20 ENGINEERING/LEGAL FEES/ PROPERTY AQCUISITION 5% $32,606.44 CONTINGENCY 10% $65,212.88 BONDS, MOBILIZATION, MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC 10% $65,212.88 TOTAL COST $655,951.00 Table 8: Alt. C Cost Es mate Joint Interceptors INLET VALLEY PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS – JOINT INTERCEPTORS BID ITEM No. BID ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT EST. QUAN- TITY UNIT PRICE ITEM PRICES 1 12" PVC SEWER MAIN VIA OPEN TRENCH LF 1374 $300.00 $412,200.00 2 15" PVC SEWER MAIN VIA OPEN TRENCH LF 873 $310.00 $270,630.00 TOTAL= $682,830.00 ENGINEERING/LEGAL FEES/ PROPERTY AQCUISITION 5% $32,606.44 CONTINGENCY 10% $65,212.88 BONDS, MOBILIZATION, MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC 10% $65,212.88 TOTAL COST $845,862.00 TOTAL COST FOR TOWN AT 42% OWNERSHIP $355,262.00 16 Annual Opera on and Maintenance (O&M) will not significantly increase due to most of the equipment requiring the same O&M as exis ng equipment. The financial status sec on of this report contains addi onal informa on. III. Non-Monetary Factors This alterna ve would have the same benefits as Alternate B. This alterna ve would require work to be completed within and adjacent to Floral Avenue/NYS Rt.13A. This would require a lane closure which would impact the traveling public. Summary and Comparison of Alterna ve The alterna ve analyses presented above were compared based on factors discussed within analysis. This comparison can be found below in Table 9. Table 9: Summary Comparison of Alterna ves Alternate A Alternate B Alternate C Project Cost to Town $0.00 $1,278,685.00 $1,826,374.00 or greater O&M No Change Slight increase in cost. Same as Alt. B Wetwell System Components No Change. Mechanical and electrical components are at the end of expected service life. Replacement of mechanical and electrical components. Rehabilita on of structural components. Same as Alt B. Exis ng System Capacity 480 LF of main undercapacity. Site 1 wetwell/pump is undersized. Addi onal loading should not be placed on the system. Decrease site 2 discharge rate, replacing 73 LF of gravity sewer main. System can handle addi onal load from developed lots that are currently on OWTS. Increase Site 1 discharge rate, replace 2,480 LF of gravity sewer main. System can handle addi onal load from developed lots that are currently on OWTS. Future System Capacity Insufficient capacity for addi onal loading. Sufficient Capacity for future development. Sufficient capacity for future development. 17 Non- monetary Factors Poten al for system surcharge and associated impacts to customers and the environment. No impact on the surrounding environment or area due to construc on. Risk to Town staff associated with generators remains. Disturb NYS designated wetland. Increase ability for growth and new construc on. Risk associated with generators is removed. System resiliency is increased. Same as Alternate B. Disturbance to the traveling public. Larger disturbance to land. Longer construc on dura on. Recommended Alterna ves I. Basis of Selec on The selected alterna ve will increase system resiliency, increase system capacity for exis ng and future development, reduce the risk of environmental contamina on, and be cost effec ve. Alterna ve B is the recommended alterna ve to proceed with. This alterna ve is the most cost-effec ve approach to increase capacity within the system for exis ng and future flow. Alterna ve A does not increase system resiliency nor does increase system capacity. Without addi onal capacity, the system cannot handle addi onal loading from exis ng and future development. In its current state, the system has a high risk of surcharging to occur which could lead to blockages and SSOs. Alterna ve C is the most expensive and would be the greatest disturbance to land and the public. This alterna ve would take longer to construct than Alterna ve B. II. Cost and Schedule Alterna ve B cost for both sites is es mated to be $1,278,685.00 and is projected to be completed by October 2025. Table 3 and 4, which can be found above, provide a detailed cost es mate per site loca on. Table 2, also found above, provides a tenta ve schedule for this alterna ve. 18 III. Next Steps This report will be filed in the office of the Town of Ithaca town clerk. This project is an Unlisted Ac on in accordance with the New Yorks State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) requirements. It is an cipated that the Town of Ithaca Town Board will be the Lead Agency. A short environmental assessment form (EAF) part 1 will be prepared for review by the lead agency. The lead agency will then complete an environmental assessment. It is an cipated that a nega ve declara on will be made by the lead agency. The Town of Ithaca is a town-wide benefi ed sewer district, therefore this project will need to follow NYS Town Law Ar cle 12-C requirements prior to progressing further into the project design phase. This will require the town board to adopt an order se ng a public, adver se the date and me of the public hearing, and hold the public hearing. If the board determines that it is in the public interest to make the proposed sewer improvements a resolu on will be approved and posted sta ng this. This resolu on and approval will then be subject to a permissive referendum. Funds cannot be spent un l a er the referendum. The above is a generaliza on of requirements. Please consult the law for further informa on and specific requirements. The project will then go into the design phase once funds are available for expenditure. A licensed surveyor and electrical engineer will be contracted to aid with design and prepara on of materials. Construc on plans and specifica ons will be created and sealed by a professional engineer authorized to prac ce in NY. Any permits that are required will be sought. The Town Board will then examine such definite plans, specifica ons, es mates and the proposed contract or contracts, and may make such modifica ons and changes in the plans, specifica ons, es mates and contract or contracts as to the board shall seem expedient, and thereupon the board may adopt or reject the same. If adopted, the plans would then be let for public bidding. 19 Maps and Figures MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD October 7, 2024 TB Resolution 2024-100: SEQR –2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Project Whereas, the Town of Ithaca Town Board has determined that the establishment and authorization of the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement and Town of Ithaca 2024 Sewer Improvement Area, as described in the Town Board’s Order Setting a Public Hearing dated September 23, 2024, together with the related actions and approvals required by other boards and agencies (the “Project”), is an Unlisted action for which the Town of Ithaca Town Board is acting in an uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the Project, and Whereas, the Town of Ithaca Town Board, at its meeting held on October 7, 2024, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form (SEAF) Part 1, prepared by the Town Engineer, and Parts 2 and 3, prepared by the Town Planning and Town Engineering Departments, now, therefore be it Resolved, that the Town of Ithaca Town Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law, 6 NYCRR Part 617 New York State Environmental Quality Review, and Chapter 148 Environmental Quality Review of the Town of Ithaca Code for the above-referenced Project as proposed, based on the information in the SEAF Part 1, and for the reasons set forth in Parts 2 and 3 and, therefore, a Draft Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. Moved: Rich DePaolo Seconded: Rod Howe Vote: ayes- Howe, DePaolo, Bleiwas, Johnson, Levine & Gutenberger -1- MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD October 7, 2024 TB Resolution 2024 - 101: Public Interest Order -Sewer Improvement for the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, pursuant to Article 12-C of the Town Law, to be known as the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement and establishing the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area At a regular meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, held at the Town Hall, 215 North Tioga Street, in Ithaca, New York in said Town, on October 7, 2024, at 5:30 o’clock p.m., Prevailing Time. Present: Rod Howe, Supervisor; Members: Rich DePaolo, Pamela Bleiwas, Margaret Johnson, Eric Levine and Susie Gutenberger Moved: Margaret Johnson Seconded: Pamela Bleiwas Whereas, a map, plan and report, including an estimate of cost, have been duly prepared in such manner and in such detail as has heretofore been determined by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, relating to the establishment and construction, pursuant to Article 12-C of the Town Law, of sewer system improvements to be known and identified as the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement (the “Improvement”), to provide such Improvement to the present Town sewer system to serve a benefitted area in said Town to be known as Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area (the “Sewer Improvement Area”); and Whereas, the Improvement proposed in connection with the establishment of the Sewer Improvement Area consists of repairing concrete, replacing electronic and control elements, replacing pump system components, installing permanent natural gas generators, making minor site improvements, increasing the size of approximately 73 linear feet of an existing gravity sewer main, and acquisition of approximately 0.12 acres of land, as well as other ancillary and incidental improvements and expenses in connection therewith, at a maximum estimated cost of $1,278,685.00; and Whereas, said map, plan and report, including estimate of cost, were prepared by a competent engineer, duly licensed by the State of New York, and were filed in the office of the Town Clerk of said Town prior to the Town Board’s September 23, 2024 meeting, where the same were available during regular office hours for examination by any person or persons interested in the subject matter thereof; and Whereas, the area of said Town determined to be benefited by said Improvement consists of the entire area of said Town excepting therefrom the area contained within the Village of Cayuga Heights, and the Sewer Improvement Area boundaries shall consist of the entire area of said Town outside of the Village of Cayuga Heights as more fully shown upon a map on file in the -2- office of the Town Clerk, which map is available for inspection by any person or persons interested in same during regular office hours at said office; and Whereas, it is proposed that the cost of the Improvement shall be borne by the real property in said Sewer Improvement Area by assessing, levying upon and collecting from the several lots and parcels of land within such Sewer Improvement Area, outside of any villages, which the Town Board shall determine and specify to be especially benefitted by the Improvement, an amount sufficient to pay the cost or the principal and interest on serial bonds and bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the issuance of serial bonds, as the same become due and payable; and Whereas, said maximum estimated cost shall be authorized to be financed by the expenditure of current revenues and surplus funds from sewer rents and charges from said Sewer Improvement Area or by the issuance by the Town of Ithaca of its serial bonds with a maximum maturity not in excess of the forty year period prescribed by the Local Finance Law; and Whereas, on September 23, 2024, the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca duly adopted an Order reciting the proposed Improvement, a description of the boundaries of the proposed benefited area, the maximum amount proposed to be expended for the Improvement, the proposed method of apportioning the costs of such Improvement, the proposed method of financing to be employed, the fact that a map, plan and report describing the same are on file in the Town Clerk's office for public inspection, and calling a public hearing upon said map, plan and report and the question of providing the Improvement to serve the area to be known as the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area, such public hearing to be held on October 7, 2024, at 5:30 o’clock P.M., Prevailing Time, at the Town Hall, 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, in said Town, at which time and place all persons interested in the subject thereof could be heard concerning the same; and Whereas, notice of said public hearing was duly posted and published as required by law; and Whereas, said public hearing was duly held at the place and at the time aforesaid and all persons interested in the subject thereof, who appeared at such time and place, were heard concerning the same; and Whereas, pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) and its implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617, it has been determined by the Town Board that approval, construction and implementation of the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement and establishment of the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area, together with the related actions and approvals required by other boards and agencies (the “Project”), is an Unlisted action for which the Town of Ithaca Town Board, acting in an uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the Project, has on October 7, 2024, made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as adequate the Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, prepared by the Town Engineer, and Parts 2 and 3, prepared by the Town Planning and Town Engineering Departments; and -3- Whereas, based on the evidence offered, it is now desired to authorize the Improvement to serve the area to be known as the Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area, therefore, be it Resolved, by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York, as follows: Section 1. It is hereby determined that it is in the public interest to establish said Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area and to authorize, establish and make the Improvement hereinafter described, and such Town of Ithaca 2024 Inlet Valley Sewer Improvement Area is hereby established and the Improvement is authorized at a maximum estimated cost to said Sewer Improvement Area of $1,278,685.00. Said Sewer Improvement Area boundaries shall consist of the entire area of said Town outside of the Village of Cayuga Heights as more fully shown and described in the aforesaid map, plan and report presently on file in the office of the Town Clerk. The area hereby determined to be benefitted by said Improvement is the entire area of the Town outside the Village of Cayuga Heights. All of the property within said Sewer Improvement Area is benefited by the proposed Improvement, and all of the property benefited is included within said Sewer Improvement Area. Section 2. The proposed Improvement shall consist of repairing concrete, replacing electronic and control elements, replacing pump system components, installing permanent natural gas generators, making minor site improvements, increasing the size of approximately 73 linear feet of an existing gravity sewer main, and acquisition of approximately 0.12 acres of land, as well as other ancillary and incidental improvements and expenses in connection therewith, at a maximum cost to said Sewer Improvement Area of $1,278,685.00. The proposed method of apportioning the costs of the Improvement should not be changed. The method of financing of said cost shall be by the expenditure of current revenues and surplus funds from sewer rents and charges from said Sewer Improvement Area or by the issuance by the Town of Ithaca of its serial bonds with a maximum maturity not in excess of the forty year period prescribed by the Local Finance Law. Section 3. It is hereby determined that the estimated expense of the Improvement does not exceed one-tenth of one per cent of the full valuation of the taxable real property in the area of said Town outside of any villages and, therefore, in accordance with the provisions of subdivision 13 of Section 209-q of the Town Law, the permission of the State Comptroller shall not be required for such Improvement. Section 4. Pursuant to subdivision 6(d) of Section 209-q of the Town Law, the Town Clerk is hereby directed and ordered to cause a certified copy of this resolution to be duly recorded in the office of the Clerk of the County of Tompkins, New York, within ten days of the date this resolution becomes effective pursuant to Town Law Section 91, which when so recorded, shall be presumptive evidence of the regularity of the proceedings and action taken by the Town Board in relation to the Improvement. Section 5. It is hereby further determined that all of the cost of the Improvement allocable to the Town shall be borne by property within said Sewer Improvement Area constituting all of the -4- area of said Town outside of any villages, and therefore this resolution shall be subject to permissive referendum. Section 6. This resolution is adopted subject to permissive referendum in the manner provided in Town Law Article 7 and Town Law Section 209-q. The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote on roll call, which resulted as follows: ROLL CALL: Rod Howe, aye; Rich DePaolo, aye; Pamela Bleiwas, aye; Margaret Johnson, aye; Eric Levine, aye; and Susie Gutenberger, aye ¾” ” ¾” ¾” ¾” ¾” C z cJ ,0 r)m C 0 U,C U,0 1 C C -1 0 r)C -< -rn N) •0z m z -1 0 z 0 -1 r) C N)z m m m m 0 m mz C, , e W4%• • ‘ h •%0 \\ . I! C ZI Z 0 b I- i ) L) \ o