HomeMy WebLinkAboutPWC Agenda 2026-10-20 and PacketAgenda
Town of Ithaca
Public Works Committee
October 20, 2026, 9:00AM
114 Seven Mile Drive
ZOOM Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85345345798
1. Approval of Minutes
a. September 15
2. Member Comments/Concerns
a. Consider Modifications to Agenda
3. #124 Compton Road – Release & Termination of Easement
4. South Hill Trail Feasibility Study
5. Apple Orchard Control Valve Building & Freese Road PRV Vault
6. Parks, Trails, and Open Spaces Plan
7. Project Updates
a. Interceptor Study
b. Court Clerks Mezzanine
c. Paving
d. Brush and Leaves
Meeting materials are available at https://townithacany.gov/meeting-calendar-agendas/.
The videoconferencing platform ZOOM will be used for this meeting, and Committee
Member(s) may attend remotely when authorized by Town policy. The public has the right to
attend in person or via videoconferencing and can access ZOOM by the link provided. or by
going to www.zoom.com/join or calling (929) 436-2866 and entering the Meeting ID# 853 4534
5798.
Public comments where applicable can be made in person at the meeting, by USPS to the address
above, via the videoconferencing platform ZOOM, or via email to
publicworks@townithacany.gov until 3pm the day before the meeting. The email above is also
the point of contact for people needing assistance to attend or access the meeting. All comments
become a public record and are distributed to Committee Members and the Applicant(s) prior to
the meeting.
Joe Slater
Director of Public Works
South Hill Recreation TrailIthaca, Thompkins County, New York
Preliminary Concept Design
April 29, 2026 North Graphic Scale (in feet)
KEY PLANNOT TO SCALE
CONCEPT 4 HIGHLIGHTS
This option routes the trail beneath Burns Road through a 10-by-10-foot culvert tunnel, creating a fully separated, ADA-compliant crossing that eliminates conicts with tra c.While it provides the safest andmost seamless user experience, it comes with the highest cost, requires temporary road closure during construction, and introduces potential concerns around maintenance and tunnel use.
TOTAL PRELIMINARY COST: $2,389,467
South Hill Recreation TrailIthaca, Thompkins County, New York
Preliminary Concept Design
April 29, 2026 North Graphic Scale (in feet)
GRAVEL PATHBOLLARDS, TYP. SHEET PILE RETAINING WALL, TYP.
RELOCATED DRIVEWAYTUNNEL, TYP.
CONCEPT 4 - TUNNEL
GUARDRAIL FENCING
REPLACEMENT GUARDRAIL
South Hill Recreation TrailIthaca, Tompkins County, New York
Preliminary Concept Design
North Graphic Scale (in feet)September 11, 2026
CROSSWALK
FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER RAMP WITH HELICAL PILES
CONCEPT 8 - STRAIGHT RAMP
CONCEPT 8 HIGHLIGHTS
A six-foot-wide FRP ramp provides a direct, ADA compliant, and cost-eective way to connect both sides of Burns Road while guidingpedestrianstothesafestcrossingpoint.With a small footprint andminimalimpactontheforestandsteepslopes,it oers a durable andaccessibleconnection.Also included in the design is aclearly markedRapidRectangularFlashingBeacon(RRFB)crossing with advance warningsignage.
TOTAL PRELIMINARY COST:$1,390,315
RECTANGULAR RAPID FLASHING BEACON
TRAIL SIGN
SAFETY BOLLARD
TRAIL SIGN
RELOCATED SIGN AND BENCH
FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER (FRP) RAMP
South Hill Recreation TrailIthaca, Thompkins County, New York
Preliminary Concept Design
April 29, 2026 North Graphic Scale (in feet)
STAIRS
CROSSWALK
CONCRETE LANDING
CONCEPT 1 - STAIRS AND
STEEP PATH
CONCEPT 1 HIGHLIGHTS
A six-foot-wide FRP staircase provides the simplest,most cost-e ectiveway to connect both sides of Burns Road while guiding pedestrians to the safest crossing point. With a small footprint and minimal impact on the forest and steep slopes,it o ers a durable,low-cost solution that includesa bike runnel, improved sidewalk access, and a clearly marked crossing with advance warning signage.The main tradeo s are that it is not ADAcompliant and requires cyclists and skiers to dismount.
TOTAL PRELIMINARY COST: $423,391
CONCRETE SIDEWALK
CROSSWALK SIGN, TYP.
TRAIL SIGN FOR ROAD CROSSING
TRAIL SIGN FOR ROAD CROSSING
TRAIL SIGN FOR ROAD CROSSING
REPLACEMENT GUARDRAIL
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 1 of 11
TOWN OF ITHACA and TOWN OF DRYDEN Inter-Municipal Agreement Between Town of Dryden and Town of Ithaca Regarding Maintenance, Management, Use and Control of the Apple Orchard PRV and NYS Route 366 Water Main
THIS AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into effective this 1st day of October,
2019, by and between TOWN OF DRYDEN (hereafter “Dryden”), a municipal subdivision of the State of New York situate in Tompkins County with offices at 93 East Main Street, Dryden, New York 13053 and the TOWN OF ITHACA, (hereafter “Ithaca”), a municipal subdivision of the State of New York situate in Tompkins County with offices at 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York 14850
(Dryden and Ithaca are sometimes herein jointly referred to as the “Parties” and severally as a “Party”). WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Dryden is the sole member municipality of the Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (hereafter “Bolton Point”) lacking a direct physical connection to the Bolton Point water transmission main within its municipal boundary, and Ithaca, Dryden and Bolton Point have historically utilized the Apple Orchard Pressure Reducing Valve (hereafter “Apple Orchard PRV”) and NYS Route 366 water mains (hereafter “Mains”) as a secondary source of supply for the Ithaca
Sapsucker Woods Tank and Dryden Distribution System; and WHEREAS, recent development within the Town of Dryden necessitates the need to provide an alternative source of supply for the Dryden water distribution system, Ithaca does not have sufficient
capacity within its Sapsucker Tank to adequately supply Dryden and its future development, and this increased development, demand, and need necessitates the need to provide a primary source of water supply to Dryden through the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains, and Dryden desires that the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains become the primary source of supply for the Dryden Distribution System,
and Dryden desires to utilize and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains on behalf of the several Dryden water benefit districts presently relying upon the continual supply of Bolton Point water, and Ithaca is willing to agree to permit Dryden to utilize and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains for the purposes of extending, expanding, repairing, replacing and maintaining this infrastructure for the co-benefit and use of Dryden, upon the terms and conditions hereinafter stated; and
WHEREAS, Ithaca will retain the ownership interest in the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains and their remaining capacity for the benefit of continuing service to its parcels in respect of its town-wide Article 12-C water improvement area, and at present the only Ithaca parcels having a water connection utilizing the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains are Cornell University facilities, and
WHEREAS, the Town Board of Ithaca, on October 21, 2019, adopted a Resolution entitled "Apple Orchard Water Main Agreement with Town of Dryden” a resolution authorizing the Supervisor of the Town of Ithaca to enter into an agreement", a copy of which resolution is hereby annexed and marked
Exhibit A and made a part hereof as though fully set forth herein; and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Dryden, on September 19, 2019, adopted a Resolution entitled "Apple Orchard Water Main Agreement with Town of Ithaca” a resolution authorizing the
Supervisor of the Town of Dryden to enter into an agreement" a copy of which resolution is hereby
annexed and marked Exhibit B and made a part hereof as though fully set forth herein.
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 2 of 11
In light of the foregoing approvals and recitations, which are a material part of this Agreement, the Parties now AGREE as follows:
1. Current Ithaca parcels connected to the Mains (mainly between the Apple Orchard PRV and Game Farm Road) will continue to be Ithaca customers and billed for water consumption and any Ithaca District indebtedness. A map and list of facilities that are currently serviced by the Main are
contained in Exhibit C hereof. 2. Exhibit D contains an estimate of the remaining capacity in the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains (the “System”), and represents the remaining capacity allocable to Ithaca prior to being required to pay for, or contribute to, any upgrades or improvements to the System. Once the hook-ups and amount of
water delivered to Ithaca exceeds the capacity listed in Exhibit D, Dryden shall undertake improvements to the System, including but not limited to increasing main sizes or System capacity, to continue to serve both the Ithaca properties and any needed flow rates or capacity for Dryden districts and authorized users.
3. Any new connections to the Main after the effective date of this Agreement shall be subject to prior review/approval of Dryden, which may not be unreasonably withheld unless Ithaca’s capacity has been exceeded and Ithaca and Dryden have not come to agreement upon the allocation of costs for System improvements.
4. The termination or abandonment of any existing Ithaca customer connections shall be completed at the Main per Bolton Point Standards in a timely manner.
5. Dryden hereby undertakes all responsibility for the testing, management, inspection, maintenance, repairs to, and replacement of the System and its appurtenances, and all related costs thereof, and accepts each and all such components, appurtenances, and the Apple Orchard PRV, Mains, and System is their respective and collective present “AS IS, WHERE IS” location and condition,
without recourse. Dryden is responsible for all system upgrades and capacity improvements, except as may be required by paragraph 2, above. For the purposes of clarity, Dryden is also responsible for: (i) mowing and any building and grounds maintenance for Apple Orchard PRV and Main locations and improvements; (ii) all electric costs for the Apple Orchard PRV and Main, and Ithaca and Dryden shall cooperate to have all electric billing accounts transferred to Dryden; (iii) all Bolton Point billing for
SCADA upgrades and maintenance, and Ithaca and Dryden shall cooperate to effect such change in Bolton Point billing and invoicing. The responsibilities of Dryden shall cover all Apple Orchard PRV and Mains, and all related facilities, from the take off point as defined in Bolton Point Rules and Regulations, being the first outlet valve off the SCLIWC transmission main subject to the Oakcrest pump station, Burdick Hill and East Hill water storage tank pressures, being also the outlet valve off
the transmission main to the PRV building. 6. The following procedures shall apply to system management and upgrades: (a) At any time during the period of this Agreement, or any Renewal Term hereof, either Party may present to the other
a plan for the expansion of the System to meet current and future capacity requirements of the respective water districts; (b) Whenever Ithaca or Dryden commence the process of examining upgrades or improvements to the System, such Party shall notify the other and allow the other Party to participate so as to provide for proper capital and cost management and improvements, as well as the
proper coordination of System construction and financing; and (c) at least once in the year preceding the commencement of any Renewal Term the Parties shall coordinate to determine whether any capital improvements or increases in System capacity are required. In any case where both Parties are to
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 3 of 11
participate in capacity upgrades, the terms and conditions for sharing the capital cost of such an expansion will be covered by a separate agreement. Unless a Party participates in the upgrade in
capacity, the allocation of available increased capacity shall belong to the Party paying for or financing such improvements; otherwise capacity shall be allocated fairly in the separate agreement referenced above. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other clause in this Agreement, Dryden is and hereafter shall be solely and primarily responsible for all construction contracts and installations implementing
all improvements, as well as all costs pertaining to general System costs, and management, including all maintenance and repair. However, both Parties reserve the right to effect inspections to assure proper construction and agree that Bolton Point may also undertake final inspections, testing, and permitting in respect of the same.
7. Whenever Dryden undertakes action in respect of the System, including inspections and surveying, Dryden shall be deemed to be acting jointly with, and as an agent of, Ithaca, and shall act in accord with, and within the scope of, any easements and rights-of-way running in favor of Ithaca allowing access to the System. If and as needed, Ithaca agrees to cooperate to help obtain any needed
easements, licenses, or rights-of-way naming or running in favor of Dryden as are now or hereafter necessary or convenient for the Parties to implement this Agreement and carry out the duties and responsibilities set forth herein. 8. The Parties acknowledge that this Agreement does not require a permit from the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) pursuant to Environmental Conservation Law § 15-1521. 9. Ithaca shall not be liable or responsible for any water quality issues or problems, interruptions
in service, water pressure or quantity issues, or any direct or indirect claims arising from any of the foregoing, including from third parties. To the fullest extent authorized by law, Dryden shall to the extent of its commercial general liability insurance defend, indemnify and hold harmless Ithaca, its officers and employees for all claims, damages, expenses and costs (including reasonable attorney’s
fees if assessed by a court of competent jurisdiction) or injury to persons or property which may arise out of the acts or omissions of Dryden, or its special districts, agents or employees in the course of their employment in carrying out the terms of this Agreement, except to the extent that such claims, damages, expenses and costs are attributable to the acts or omissions of Ithaca and its officers, employees, agents, and volunteers. Likewise, to the fullest extent authorized by law, Ithaca shall to the
extent of its commercial general liability insurance defend, indemnify and hold harmless Dryden, its special districts, officers and employees for all claims, damages, expenses and costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees if assessed by a court of competent jurisdiction) or injury to persons or property which may arise out of the acts or omissions of Ithaca, or its agents or employees in the course of their employment in carrying out the terms of this Agreement, except to the extent that such claims,
damages, expenses and costs are attributable to the acts or omissions of Ithaca and its officers, employees, agents, and volunteers. Each Party shall carry commercial general liability coverages in the minimum coverage amount of $3,000,000 per incident/per person, and shall have at all times contractual liability endorsements or coverages with like limits to help give effect to the indemnity
obligations of each Party to the other, including as set forth herein. Each Party waives, individually and on behalf of its insurer(s), any and all claims or rights of subrogation against the other Party for any loss or damage insured.
10. This Agreement shall continue in force for a period of five years from the date of execution of this Agreement, and will be automatically renewed for additional five-year periods (the “Renewal Term”) unless otherwise terminated by any Party, or unless otherwise amended or superseded by
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 4 of 11
agreement between the Parties. This Agreement may be terminated on 120-days’ written notice at any time by either Party.
11. Each Party shall keep detailed and accurate records of their undertakings, costs and expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement, and make all such records accessible to the other Party upon reasonable notice and request, including for, but not limited to, auditing and finance/grant
verification and compliance purposes. 12. No waiver of any breach of any condition of this Agreement shall be binding unless in writing and signed by the Party waiving said breach. No such waiver shall in any way affect any other term or condition of this Agreement or constitute a cause or excuse for a repetition of such or any other breach
unless the waiver shall include the same. 13. This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to or the application of New York State’s conflicts of law principles.
14. This Agreement shall be deemed executory and each Party’s liability is limited in accord with funds appropriated and available for this Agreement. Dryden warrants and promises that it will annually appropriate sufficient funds as to ensure the timely delivery of potable water in accord with standard water district practices and standards undertaken by member municipalities of Bolton Point.
15. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, no Party shall be liable or responsible to the other Party or to any third party for consequential, incidental, indirect, special, punitive, or exemplary damages arising out of or related to the transaction contemplated hereunder,
including claims for or damages relating to loss of profits, loss of the benefits of use, or loss of business, even if a Party was apprised of the likelihood of such damages, and even if such damage or loss was foreseeable. It is expressly understood and agreed that each and every provision of this Agreement that provides for a limitation of liability, a disclaimer of warranties, or an exclusion of damages, is intended
by the Parties to be severable from any other provision, and is a separable and independent element of risk allocation intended to be enforced as such. There are no intended or implied third party beneficiaries or third-party rights arising under or in relation to this Agreement. 16. If any provision hereof is held invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction,
such invalidity shall not affect the validity or operation of any other provision, and such invalid provision shall be reformed to the minimum extent required to bring it into compliance with applicable law, or to otherwise make such provision enforceable. Such reformation shall be performed by first considering purposes sought by the Parties in any such provision, and secondly by the intent of the Parties as set forth in this Agreement. If such reformation is not possible, then such provision shall be
severed from this Agreement and the Parties agree to immediately begin negotiations to replace, update, or take other required action to replace such provision. As well, any clause or provision required by law to be part of this Agreement shall be deemed a part of this Agreement and the Parties shall again promptly meet to formally integrate any such requirement. Examples include, but are not
limited to, EEOC requirements, MWBE requirements, anti-discrimination requirements, OFAC rules, state and federal Executive Orders, the MacBride Fair Employment Practices Act, the Trading with the Enemy Act, the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Act, the Iran Divestment Act, wage and hour standards, including prevailing wage and public works requirements, procurement and public bidding
requirements, non-collusion requirements, the requirements of the Omnibus Procurement Act of 1992, state and federal debarment list requirements, State Finance Law 165 and the prohibition against use of tropical hardwoods, and like requirements of state, federal or local law.
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 5 of 11
17. This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding of the Parties, revokes and supersedes all
prior discussions, negotiations, and agreements between the Parties, and is intended as a final expression of their Agreement. It shall not be modified or amended except by a signed written agreement between the Parties that specifically refers to this Agreement. This Agreement shall take precedence over any other documents that may be in conflict herewith, and no Party shall be bound by
any agent’s or employee’s representation, promise, or inducement not set forth in this Agreement. No course of prior dealings between the Parties shall be relevant or admissible to supplement, explain, or vary any of the terms of this Agreement. Acceptance of or acquiescence in a course of performance rendered under this Agreement (or any prior agreements) shall not be relevant or admissible to determine the meaning of this Agreement, even though the accepting or acquiescing Party has
knowledge of the nature of performance and an opportunity to make objection. No representations, understandings, or agreements have been made or relied upon in the making of this Agreement other than those specifically set forth herein.
18. All disputes arising under or in relation to this Agreement, or the System and purposes sought to be implemented and affected hereby, including the interpretation, enforcement, or alleged breach of or non-performance of any term or requirement herein, shall be resolved by the Parties by mediation through a neutral, recognized third-party mediation service or professional. Absent resolution by meditation, the Parties agree that any such dispute may thereafter proceed to be resolved judicially, but
only in a New York State Court of record having territorial jurisdiction in and over Tompkins County, New York. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Town of Dryden has caused its corporate seal to be affixed hereto and
these presents to be signed by Jason Leifer, its Town Supervisor and duly authorized representative, as attested to by Bambi Avery, Town Clerk, and the Town of Ithaca has caused its corporate seal to be affixed hereto and these presents to be signed by Bill Goodman, its Town Supervisor and duly authorized representative, as attested to by Paulette Rosa, Town Clerk, effective the day and year first
above written. Attest: By: Town of Dryden
________________________________ By: ___________________________ Bambi Avery, Town Clerk Jason Leifer, Town Supervisor [Seal of the Town of Dryden]
STATE OF NEW YORK ) COUNTY OF TOMPKINS ) ss.:
On the ____day of ___________in the year 2019 before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State, personally appeared Town of Dryden Supervisor, JASON LEIFER, personally known to me or proved to me on the
basis of satisfactory evidence to be the individual(s) whose name(s) is (are) subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument, the individual(s), or the person upon behalf of which the individual(s) acted, executed the instrument.
________________________________ Notary Public
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 7 of 11
EXHIBIT A
RESOLUTION OF TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA
MEETING OF THE ITHACA TOWN BOARD Monday, October 21, 2019
TB Resolution 2019 – 154: Approving an Inter-Municipal Agreement Between Town of Dryden and Town of Ithaca Regarding Maintenance, Management, Use and Control of the Apple Orchard PRV and NYS Route 366 Water Main
Whereas, the Town of Dryden (hereafter “Dryden”) is the sole member municipality of the
Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (hereafter “Bolton Point”) lacking a
direct physical connection to the Bolton Point water transmission main within its municipal
boundary, and Ithaca, Dryden and Bolton Point have historically utilized the Apple Orchard
Pressure Reducing Valve (hereafter “Apple Orchard PRV”) and NYS Route 366 water mains
(hereafter “Mains”) as a secondary source of supply for the Ithaca Sapsucker Woods Tank and
Dryden Distribution System; and
Whereas, recent development within Dryden necessitates the need to provide an alternative source
of supply for the Dryden water distribution system, Ithaca does not have sufficient capacity within
its Sapsucker Tank to adequately supply Dryden and its future development, and this increased
development, demand, and need necessitates the need to provide a primary source of water supply
to Dryden through the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains, and Dryden desires that the Apple Orchard
PRV and Mains become the primary source of supply for the Dryden Distribution System, and
Dryden desires to utilize and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains on behalf of the several
Dryden water benefit district(s) presently relying upon the continual supply of Bolton Point water,
or any future consolidated water district(s) and Ithaca is willing to agree to permit Dryden to utilize
and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains for the purposes of extending, expanding, repairing,
replacing and maintaining this infrastructure for the co-benefit and use of Dryden, upon the terms
and conditions hereinafter stated; and
Whereas, the Town of Ithaca (hereafter “Ithaca”) will retain the ownership interest in the Apple
Orchard PRV and Mains and their remaining capacity for the benefit of continuing service to its
parcels in respect of its town-wide Article 12-C water improvement area, and at present the only
Ithaca parcels having a water connection utilizing the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains are Cornell
University facilities, and
Whereas, this action has been determined to be Type 2 under SEQR, related to internal governance
and asset/utility administration; now, therefore be it
Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca approves the agreement and authorizes the
Town Supervisor to sign on behalf of the Town.
Moved: Rod Howe Seconded: Rich DePaolo
Vote: ayes – Howe, DePaolo, Hunter, Leary, Levine, Bleiwas and Goodman
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 8 of 11
EXHIBIT B FUTURE TOWN BOARD RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF DRYDEN
Resolution #135 (2019) - Approving an Inter-Municipal Agreement Between Town of
Dryden and Town of Ithaca Regarding Maintenance, Management, Use and Control of the
Apple Orchard PRV and NYS Route 366 Water Main
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
WHEREAS, the Town of Dryden (hereafter “Dryden”) is the sole member municipality of the
Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (hereafter “Bolton Point”) lacking a
direct physical connection to the Bolton Point water transmission main within its municipal
boundary, and Ithaca, Dryden and Bolton Point have historically utilized the Apple Orchard
Pressure Reducing Valve (hereafter “Apple Orchard PRV”) and NYS Route 366 water mains
(hereafter “Mains”) as a secondary source of supply for the Ithaca Sapsucker Woods Tank and
Dryden Distribution System; and
WHEREAS, recent development within Dryden necessitates the need to provide an alternative
source of supply for the Dryden water distribution system, Ithaca does not have sufficient
capacity within its Sapsucker Tank to adequately supply Dryden and its future development,
and this increased development, demand, and need necessitates the need to provide a primary
source of water supply to Dryden through the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains, and Dryden desires
that the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains become the primary source of supply for the Dryden
Distribution System, and Dryden desires to utilize and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains
on behalf of the several Dryden water benefit district(s) presently relying upon the continual
supply of Bolton Point water, or any future consolidated water district(s) and Ithaca is willing to
agree to permit Dryden to utilize and control the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains for the purposes
of extending, expanding, repairing, replacing and maintaining this infrastructure for the co-
benefit and use of Dryden, upon the terms and conditions hereinafter stated; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca (hereafter “Ithaca”) will retain the ownership interest in the Apple
Orchard PRV and Mains and their remaining capacity for the benefit of continuing service to its
parcels in respect of its town-wide Article 12-C water improvement area, and at present the only
Ithaca parcels having a water connection utilizing the Apple Orchard PRV and Mains are Cornell
University facilities,
BE IT NOW RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Dryden approves the execution of
an Inter Municipal Agreement entitled " Inter-Municipal Agreement Between Town of Dryden and
Town of Ithaca Regarding Maintenance, Management, Use and Control of the Apple Orchard PRV
and NYS Route 366 Water Main” (hereafter “Agreement”), which agreement shall provide as
follows:
1. Current Ithaca parcels connected to the Mains (mainly between the Apple Orchard PRV
and Game Farm Road) will continue to be Ithaca customers and billed for water consumption
and any Ithaca District indebtedness. A map and list of facilities that are currently serviced by
the Main to be contained in Exhibit C thereof.
2. In Exhibit D the agreement shall outline an estimate of the remaining capacity in the
Apple Orchard PRV and Mains (the “System”), and represent the remaining capacity allocable to
Ithaca prior to being required to pay for, or contribute to, any upgrades or improvements to the
System. Once the hook-ups and amount of water delivered to Ithaca exceeds the capacity listed
in Exhibit D, Dryden shall undertake improvements to the System, including but not limited to
increasing main sizes or System capacity, to continue to serve both the Ithaca properties and
any needed flow rates or capacity for Dryden districts and authorized users.
3. Any new connections to the Main after the effective date of the Agreement shall be subject
to prior review/approval of Dryden, which may not be unreasonably withheld unless Ithaca’s
capacity has been exceeded and Ithaca and Dryden have not come to agreement upon the
allocation of costs for System improvements.
4. The termination or abandonment of any existing Ithaca customer connections shall be
completed at the Main per Bolton Point Standards in a timely manner.
5. Dryden hereby undertakes all responsibility for the testing, management, inspection,
maintenance, repairs to, and replacement of the System and its appurtenances, and all related
costs thereof, and accepts each and all such components, appurtenances, and the Apple Orchard
PRV, Mains, and System is their respective and collective present “AS IS, WHERE IS” location
and condition, without recourse. Dryden is responsible for all system upgrades and capacity
improvements, except as may be required by paragraph 2, above. For the purposes of clarity,
Dryden is also responsible for: (i) mowing and any building and grounds maintenance for Apple
Orchard PRV and Main locations and improvements; (ii) all electric costs for the Apple Orchard
PRV and Main, and Ithaca and Dryden shall cooperate to have all electric billing accounts
transferred to Dryden; (iii) all Bolton Point billing for SCADA upgrades and maintenance, and
Ithaca and Dryden shall cooperate to effect such change in Bolton Point billing and invoicing.
The responsibilities of Dryden shall cover all Apple Orchard PRV and Mains, and all related
facilities, from the take off point as defined in Bolton Point Rules and Regulations, being the first
outlet valve off the SCLIWC transmission main subject to the Oakcrest pump station, Burdick
Hill and East Hill water storage tank pressures, being also the outlet valve off the transmission
main to the PRV building.
6. The following procedures shall apply to system management and upgrades: (a) At any
time during the period of this Agreement, or any Renewal Term hereof, either Party may present
to the other a plan for the expansion of the System to meet current and future capacity
requirements of the respective water districts; (b) Whenever Ithaca or Dryden commence the
process of examining upgrades or improvements to the System, such Party shall notify the other
and allow the other Party to participate so as to provide for proper capital and cost management
and improvements, as well as the proper coordination of System construction and financing; and
(c) at least once in the year preceding the commencement of any Renewal Term the Parties shall
coordinate to determine whether any capital improvements or increases in System capacity are
required. In any case where both Parties are to participate in capacity upgrades, the terms and
conditions for sharing the capital cost of such an expansion will be covered by a separate
agreement. Unless a Party participates in the upgrade in capacity, the allocation of available
increased capacity shall belong to the Party paying for or financing such improvements;
otherwise capacity shall be allocated fairly in the separate agreement referenced above.
Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other clause in this Agreement, Dryden is and hereafter
shall be solely and primarily responsible for all construction contracts and installations
implementing all improvements, as well as all costs pertaining to general System costs, and
management, including all maintenance and repair. However, both Parties reserve the right to
effect inspections to assure proper construction, and agree that Bolton Point may also undertake
final inspections, testing, and permitting in respect of the same.
7. Whenever Dryden undertakes action in respect of the System, including inspections and
surveying, Dryden shall be deemed to be acting jointly with, and as an agent of, Ithaca, and shall
act in accord with, and within the scope of, any easements and rights-of-way running in favor of
Ithaca allowing access to the System. If and as needed, Ithaca agrees to cooperate to help obtain
any needed easements, licenses, or rights-of-way naming or running in favor of Dryden as are
now or hereafter necessary or convenient for the Parties to implement this Agreement and carry
out the duties and responsibilities set forth herein.
8. The Parties acknowledge that the Agreement does not require a permit from the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) pursuant to Environmental
Conservation Law § 15-1521.
9. Ithaca shall not be liable or responsible for any water quality issues or problems,
interruptions in service, water pressure or quantity issues, or any direct or indirect claims arising
from any of the foregoing, including from third parties. To the fullest extent authorized by law,
Dryden shall to the extent of its commercial general liability insurance defend, indemnify and
hold harmless Ithaca, its officers and employees for all claims, damages, expenses and costs
(including reasonable attorney’s fees if assessed by a court of competent jurisdiction) or injury
to persons or property which may arise out of the acts or omissions of Dryden, or its special
districts, agents or employees in the course of their employment in carrying out the terms of this
Agreement, except to the extent that such claims, damages, expenses and costs are attributable
to the acts or omissions of Ithaca and its officers, employees, agents, and volunteers. Likewise,
to the fullest extent authorized by law, Ithaca shall to the extent of its commercial general liability
insurance defend, indemnify and hold harmless Dryden, its special districts, officers and
employees for all claims, damages, expenses and costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees if
assessed by a court of competent jurisdiction) or injury to persons or property which may arise
out of the acts or omissions of Ithaca, or its agents or employees in the course of their
employment in carrying out the terms of this Agreement, except to the extent that such claims,
damages, expenses and costs are attributable to the acts or omissions of Ithaca and its officers,
employees, agents, and volunteers. Each Party shall carry commercial general liability coverages
in the minimum coverage amount of $3,000,000 per incident/per person, and shall have at all
times contractual liability endorsements or coverages with like limits to help give effect to the
indemnity obligations of each Party to the other, including as set forth herein. Each Party waives,
individually and on behalf of its insurer(s), any and all claims or rights of subrogation against
the other Party for any loss or damage insured.
10. The Agreement shall continue in force for a period of five years from the date of execution
of this Agreement, and will be automatically renewed for additional five-year periods (the
“Renewal Term”) unless otherwise terminated by any Party, or unless otherwise amended or
superseded by agreement between the Parties. This Agreement may be terminated on 120-days’
written notice at any time by either Party.
11. Each Party shall keep detailed and accurate records of their undertakings, costs and
expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement, and make all such records accessible to
the other Party upon reasonable notice and request, including for, but not limited to, auditing
and finance/grant verification and compliance purposes.
12. No waiver of any breach of any condition of the Agreement shall be binding unless in
writing and signed by the Party waiving said breach. No such waiver shall in any way affect any
other term or condition of this Agreement or constitute a cause or excuse for a repetition of such
or any other breach unless the waiver shall include the same.
13. This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to or the
application of New York State’s conflicts of law principles.
14. This Agreement shall be deemed executory and each Party’s liability is limited in accord
with funds appropriated and available for this Agreement. Dryden warrants and promises that it
will annually appropriate sufficient funds as to ensure the timely delivery of potable water in
accord with standard water district practices and standards undertaken by member
municipalities of Bolton Point.
15. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Agreement, no Party shall be
liable or responsible to the other Party or to any third party for consequential, incidental, indirect,
special, punitive, or exemplary damages arising out of or related to the transaction contemplated
hereunder, including claims for or damages relating to loss of profits, loss of the benefits of use,
or loss of business, even if a Party was apprised of the likelihood of such damages, and even if
such damage or loss was foreseeable. It is expressly understood and agreed that each and every
provision of this Agreement that provides for a limitation of liability, a disclaimer of warranties,
or an exclusion of damages, is intended by the Parties to be severable from any other provision,
and is a separable and independent element of risk allocation intended to be enforced as such.
There are no intended or implied third-party beneficiaries or third-party rights arising under or
in relation to this Agreement.
16. If any provision hereof is held invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or operation of any other provision, and
such invalid provision shall be reformed to the minimum extent required to bring it into
compliance with applicable law, or to otherwise make such provision enforceable. Such
reformation shall be performed by first considering purposes sought by the Parties in any such
provision, and secondly by the intent of the Parties as set forth in this Agreement. If such
reformation is not possible, then such provision shall be severed from this Agreement and the
Parties agree to immediately begin negotiations to replace, update, or take other required action
to replace such provision. As well, any clause or provision required by law to be part of the
Agreement shall be deemed a part of the Agreement and the Parties shall again promptly meet
to formally integrate any such requirement. Examples include, but are not limited to, EEOC
requirements, MWBE requirements, anti-discrimination requirements, OFAC rules, state and
federal Executive Orders, the MacBride Fair Employment Practices Act, the Trading with the
Enemy Act, the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Act, the Iran Divestment Act, wage and hour
standards, including prevailing wage and public works requirements, procurement and public
bidding requirements, non-collusion requirements, the requirements of the Omnibus
Procurement Act of 1992, state and federal debarment list requirements, State Finance Law 165
and the prohibition against use of tropical hardwoods, and like requirements of state, federal or
local law.
17. The Agreement constitutes the entire understanding of the Parties, revokes and
supersedes all prior discussions, negotiations, and agreements between the Parties, and is
intended as a final expression of their Agreement. It shall not be modified or amended except by
a signed written agreement between the Parties that specifically refers to this Agreement. This
Agreement shall take precedence over any other documents that may be in conflict herewith, and
no Party shall be bound by any agent’s or employee’s representation, promise, or inducement
not set forth in this Agreement. No course of prior dealings between the Parties shall be relevant
or admissible to supplement, explain, or vary any of the terms of this Agreement. Acceptance of
or acquiescence in a course of performance rendered under this Agreement (or any prior
agreements) shall not be relevant or admissible to determine the meaning of this Agreement,
even though the accepting or acquiescing Party has knowledge of the nature of performance and
an opportunity to make objection. No representations, understandings, or agreements have been
made or relied upon in the making of this Agreement other than those specifically set forth
herein.
18. All disputes arising under or in relation to the Agreement, or the System and purposes
sought to be implemented and affected hereby, including the interpretation, enforcement, or
alleged breach of or non-performance of any term or requirement herein, shall be resolved by the
Parties by mediation through a neutral, recognized third-party mediation service or professional.
Absent resolution by meditation, the Parties agree that any such dispute may thereafter proceed
to be resolved judicially, but only in a New York State Court of record having territorial
jurisdiction in and over Tompkins County, New York, and be it further
RESOLVED the Town Supervisor for Dryden, Jason Leifer, is duly authorized to sign the
agreement on behalf of Dryden and the original fully executed agreement shall be kept in the
Dryden records by Town Clerk.
2nd Cl Green
Roll Call Vote Cl Green Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 9 of 11
EXHIBIT C MAP AND LIST OF PROPERTIES AND FACILITIES CURRENTLY SERVED BY APPLE ORCHARD WATER MAIN
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 10 of 11
Apple Orchard PRV Agreement – TOI & TOD Page 11 of 11
EXHIBIT D
REMAINING SYSTEM CAPACITY WITHIN APPLE ORCHARD MAIN
DRAFT
September 9, 2026
(Microsoft Copilot example - holding place for cover design)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
2
Acknowledgements
Town Board
Rod Howe, Town Supervisor
Eric Levine, Deputy Supervisor
Pamela Bleiwas
Rich DePaolo
Susie Gutenberger
David McCune
Diana Sinton
Town Staff
Planning Department
C.J. Randall, Director of Planning
Christine Balestra, Senior Planner
Michael Smith, Senior Planner
Nick Quilty-Koval, Planner
Hilary Swartwood, Sustainability Planner
Public Works Department
Joe Slater, Highway Superintendent / Director of Public Works
Joe Talbut, Parks Maintenance Manager
Former Town Board Members & Staff
William Goodman, Town Board Member
Tee-Ann Hunter, Town Board Member
Rich Schoch, Parks Maintenance Manager
Imogen Dietz, Planning Intern
Prepared By:
Town of Ithaca Planning & Public Works Departments
215 North Tioga Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-273-1721
https://townithacany.gov/
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
3
Table of Contents
1. By the Numbers
2. Why This Matters
• Purpose of the Plan
• Justification / Benefits
o Environmental Benefits
o Social & Community Benefits
o Economic Benefits
3. Who We Are
• Previous Park and Open Space Planning
• Demographics
• Public Works Department / Parks Department Overview
• Municipal Partners
4. What’s Here Today
• Overview of Town Park, Trail & Preserve System
• Map of Existing Parks, Trails, & Preserves
• Parks
• Trails
• Preserves
• Recreation
• Park and Trail Rules and Regulations
5. What We Hope For
• Summary of Town Survey
• National Recreation & Park Association Standards
6. Growing Forward
• Goals
• General Recommendations
• Funding and Donation Related Recommendations
• Recommendations for Town Parks, Trails and Preserves
o Parks (develop new and improvements to existing)
o Trails (develop new and improvements to existing)
o Preserves (develop new and improvements to existing)
• Recommendations Involving Other Agencies
• Recreation Related Recommendations
• Map of Proposed Future Parks Trails, and Preserves
7. Making It Happen
• Phasing and Implementation
• Potential Funding Sources
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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Appendices
Appendix A - Individual Park Descriptions
Appendix B - Individual Trail Descriptions
Appendix C - Individual Preserve Descriptions
Appendix D - 2020/2021 Resident Survey Results
Appendix E - Town of Ithaca Policy on Naming Town Parks (Adopted July 8, 2002)
Appendix F - Adopt a Park, Trail or Preserve Agreement
Appendix G - Buy a Bench / Tree Programs
Appendix H - Park/Trail Permit Application
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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1. By the Numbers
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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2. Why It Matters
Purpose of the Plan
The Town of Ithaca Parks, Trails, Preserves and Recreation Plan is intended to enhance and expand the
wide variety of recreation opportunities for current and future Town of Ithaca residents and the broader
Ithaca community. While the Town has made significant accomplishments to meet the recreation needs
of individual neighborhoods and of the overall community, the Town needs to continue to address the
recreational needs of the growing population of the Town while preserving and protecting various natural
areas. There are several locations within the Town that have limited convenient recreational facilities, and
there are several types of recreation facilities that the Town may wish to explore adding or increasing.
Justification / Benefits
Environmental Benefits
The Town of Ithaca’s parks, trails, and preserves play a critical role in protecting ecosystems, improving air
and water quality, reducing climate impacts, and supporting wildlife, while making the Town healthier and
more resilient. All of the Town parks and preserves sit within the Cayuga Lake Watershed and help to filter
pollutants and sediment before they reach the lake. The Town’s parks and preserves help to protect
numerous forests, meadows, wetlands, streams, and important wildlife habitat. The collection of these
Town facilities, in connection with other protected lands in the Town, create wildlife corridors, allowing
animals to move safely between habitats. These natural landscapes also buffer against extreme weather
events and help the community to adapt to climate change by maintaining ecological balance. The parks,
preserves, and along the trails include wildflowers and native plants that support bees, butterflies, and
other pollinators, which are essential for ecosystem health. Trails also provide a sustainable transportation
option and nearby recreation opportunity for residents, thereby reducing vehicle trips and carbon
emissions.
Social & Community Benefits
Parks, preserves, and trails have been shown to play an
important role in enhancing social and community
health, that goes beyond recreation. Town facilities are
designed for shared use, including playgrounds,
ballfields, picnic areas, and walking paths, naturally
bringing people together. Trails and open spaces serve as
informal gathering places, where neighbors meet while
walking, biking, or attending events. Parks act as neutral,
inclusive spaces where people from different
backgrounds can interact, improving social ties. Green
spaces strengthen a sense of community and belonging,
reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and support
psychological restoration and relaxation.
People living near parks and trails are more likely to be
physically active and maintain healthier lifestyles. Regular
activity helps reduce risks of obesity, cardiovascular
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
7
disease, and other chronic conditions. Ithaca’s trail system provides safe off-road routes for walking,
jogging, biking, and commuting to work or school, making activity part of daily life. Ithaca’s parks include
playgrounds, sports fields, and open lawns, giving children safe places to play and socialize. Families also
gain low-cost recreation opportunities, improving equity and quality of life. Trails and walkways in Ithaca
function as recreational resources, but they also connect neighborhoods to schools, shops, and
workplaces.
The Town of Ithaca’s parks, trails, and preserves build community connections and social cohesion,
improves physical health and daily activity, enhances mental well-being, supports youth and families, and
promotes inclusivity and access. These spaces are not just recreational amenities, they are essential to
community health, resilience, and quality of life in Ithaca.
Economic Benefits
Recent studies show the continued numerous fiscal benefits that parks, trails and preserves provide to
their communities. To simply quantify these economic benefits, the National Recreation and Park
Association found that in 2023 local public park and recreation agencies in the US generated over $201
billion in economic activity and supported 1.1 million jobs.
Furthermore, according to the Office of the New York State Comptroller, outdoor recreation in New York
state provided $21.1 billion in economic activity in 2020 and supported over 241,000 jobs with $13.1
billion in compensation. While New York ranks fourth in the nation on Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
generated by outdoor recreation, outdoor recreation represents a more significant part of the economy
in nearly every other state, and there is a significant need for conservation to continue providing these
services. The Comptroller’s office also found that prior to the pandemic, New York had over 264 million
visitors spending nearly $74 billion. While the pandemic caused both visitors and tourism dollars to
decrease, it also resulted in a shift to conventional outdoor recreation; these activities were both less
limited during the pandemic and were perceived as safer than indoor activities and gatherings. The Empire
State Development reported that the wealth of New York’s outdoor recreational activities is one reason
why survey respondents continued to view the State as a vacation destination during this time. As the
economy opened back up in 2021, New York’s real GDP from the industries associated with tourism (arts,
entertainment, and recreation as well as accommodation and food services) increased by over 18 percent.
This makes it clear that parks and recreations are a vital and valued part of the New York economy.
Another part of the economic value of parks and preserves are their quantified benefits to public health.
The Trust for Public Land’s (TPL) report found that parks in NYC in 2022 provide $9.1 billion in recreational
value for residents alone, and the residents who exercise in the parks exclusively avoid more than a billion
dollars each year in health care costs.
A 2026 report from the TPL found that for every $1 invested in parks and recreation, communities get back
at least $3 in local economic benefits each year, stemming from reduced stormwater treatment costs,
lower healthcare costs, improved public health outcomes, consumer savings on fitness and recreation,
rising tax revenues for municipal governments, and a boost in public-private partnerships. The TPL
estimates, conservatively, that people are willing to pay a 5 to 15 percent premium for homes within 500
feet of a well-maintained park, which increases annual property tax revenue.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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3. Who We Are
Previous Park and Open Space Planning
The Town of Ithaca has undertaken multiple planning efforts over the years related to parks, trails and
open space that helped direct the planning process for this plan. These documents include:
Town of Ithaca Park and Open Space Plan (1977)
The first Town of Ithaca Park and Open Space Plan established a permanent park construction and
maintenance program in the Town. This plan set forth policies empowering the Planning Board to
recommend acceptance of individual parks to the Town Board and participate in their design and
landscaping.
Town of Ithaca Park and Open Space Plan Update (1984)
In 1984, the Town Board approved an update to the 1977 plan that reflected the changing recreational
needs of town residents. The 1984 Plan inventoried existing parkland and introduced bikeways and
recreational trails as important recreational assets.
Six Mile Creek Valley: A Heritage to Preserve (1990)
This report was produced in 1990 by the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council, predecessor of
the Conservation Board. It contained a number of recommendations for better protection of the inner
areas of the Six Mile Creek valley adjacent to and including the gorge, Mulholland Wildflower Preserve,
and City watershed lands.
Planning for Agriculture in the Town of Ithaca (1992)
In 1992, the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board adopted policy recommendations and implementation
measures to support the preservation of agricultural land in the Town and enhance the economic viability
of area farms.
1992 Open Space Report (1992)
In 1992 the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Board completed an inventory and map of open spaces
within the Town of Ithaca, describing and indexing all open areas based on significant ecological, cultural,
and historical features.
Town of Ithaca Park, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (1997)
The 1997 Town of Ithaca Park, Recreation, and Open Space Plan reassessed the Town’s recreational goals
set forth in previous plans to accommodate current demographics and anticipated population changes.
It set forth recommendations for an integrated network of parks, recreational facilities, and open space
for Town residents.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan (2011)
The 2011 Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan evaluated strategies to continue to foster agriculture
within the Town. It outlined goals to retain a diversity of economically viable farm types, ensure long-
term protection of agricultural-land resources, and promote wise land use and waste management on
agricultural land.
Town of Ithaca Comprehensive Plan (2014)
The 2014 Comprehensive Plan establishes goals for future land use and development, as well as for the
protection of open space, and natural and environmental resources.
Tompkins County Priority Trails Strategy (2014 & 2023)
The Tompkins County Priority Trails Strategy outlines priority actions related to the development of five
key trails that will provide the basis of a regional network, several of which pass through the Town of
Ithaca. These include the section of the Black Diamond Trail between Buttermilk and Robert H. Treman
State Park, the extension of the South Hill Recreation Way to the south, the Gateway Trail extension to
the South Hill Recreation Way, and the Finger Lakes Trail.
Demographics
This section provides an understanding of the Town of Ithaca’s population and forecasted changes. All
data comes from the 2020 Census or the American Community Survey (2009-2023). The Town of Ithaca’s
population is heavily influenced by the presence of Cornell University and Ithaca College, which affects
income levels, median age, and other demographic characteristics.
The Town of Ithaca currently has a population of 22,283 residents, with the population density for the
Town being 736 people per square mile, per the 2020 census. This indicates that there has been a large
growth rate of 11.8% since the 2010 census, which reported 19,930 residents. The Town’s population had
previously grown steadily over the past 40 years, with an average increase of 6.75% each decade between
1970 and 2010 (a growth rate of 0.7% per year). Census information indicates that the Town grew another
6.5% between 2000 and 2010, and 3.1% between 2010 and 2015.
The median household income is $105,978 and there are approximately 7,891 housing units in the Town.
The current Employment Rate in the Town is 47.2% and 75.3% of residents have a Bachelor’s degree or
higher.
The median age is 29.3, which is significantly lower than both NY state and national medians, which report
to be around a decade older. 18- to 24-year-olds are the largest age distribution, representing 32.5% of
the total population in the Town. The Town of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan projects the Town’s
population to continue to increase. According to the projections, the Town’s system of parks, preserves,
and trails can be expected to serve 22,605 residents by 2030, which the population is already close to
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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surpassing. The graph below shows the change in population in the Town of Ithaca, as well as the
projected population according to the 2014 Comprehensive plan.
More information on Town demographics:
- Town of Ithaca Website - Demographics
- United States Census Bureau
- Town of Ithaca 2014 Comprehensive Plan
Public Works Department / Parks Department Overview
The Town of Ithaca Public Works Department (DPW) consists of three main groups (Parks and Trails, Water
and Sewer, and Highway) which are responsible for construction and regular maintenance of the Town’s
infrastructure and other facilities. Employees within the department are assigned to a specific group daily,
depending on workload. At the core, the functions and responsibilities are as follows:
- Infrastructure maintenance – roads, bridges, sidewalks, buildings
- Parks and Trails– trash and recycling collection, mowing, playgrounds, trail maintenance,
recreation areas, community /public spaces
- Water and Sewer – Management of the water supply, stormwater, sewage
- Transportation management – snow removal, street cleaning, traffic signs, and signals
Noting these tasks, and the anticipated continued increase in Town population, our residents need for
recreation and parks is a necessity. Offering citizens a variety of activities for recreation, physical and
mental well-being is a priority of the Town of Ithaca.
The Parks and Trails group consists of the Director of Public Works, the Parks Maintenance Manager, a
Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO), two Medium Equipment Operators (MEO), two Laborers, and seasonal
help. This serves as a baseline for the day-to-day operations of the department. These employees are
15620 16022 17797 18710 19930
22283 23940 25600
27869
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2060
Historical and Projected Population 1970-2050
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
11
tasked each day with performing basic maintenance and improvements on all assets of the Town parks,
trails, and preserves under the direction of the Parks Maintenance Manager. Year-round activities includes
mowing, trash collection, restroom cleaning, trail inspections, baseball field maintenance, pruning and
trimming of trees/shrubs, planting of trees/shrubs, pest control, playground equipment inspections,
cemetery maintenance, trail maintenance, maintenance of amenities (picnic tables, benches, shelters,
signs, etc.), graffiti removal, snow and ice removal (parking lots, walkways, trails), leaf removal, equipment
maintenance, and volunteer coordination. These activities can be adjusted based on the specific needs of
the park or trail system and the local climate.
The Parks and Trails group faces intense seasonal demands on both staff and equipment to maintain the
Town’s parks, trails and preserves at a high level of service. The Town’s annual budget includes allocation
of funding specifically for maintenance and improvements in the Town facilities. The Town will need to
continually assess if staffing and maintenance equipment is adequate for current and future facilities to
uphold the current high maintenance standards.
Frequency of Services Provided by Parks and Trails Group
Frequency Services
Daily / Weekly Restroom cleaning, trash collection, snow and ice
removal, baseball field, mowing, trimming, cemetery
maintenance, community garden maintenance
Monthly Playground inspections, trail inspections
Varies (as needed) Pruning and trimming of trees/shrubs, planting of
trees/shrubs, pest control, trail maintenance,
maintenance of amenities, graffiti removal, leaf removal,
equipment maintenance, volunteer coordination
Municipal Partners
The Ithaca area is fortunate in having two large City parks, four State parks, Village parks, and the non-
publicly owned open areas of Cornell University, Ithaca College, The Nature Conservancy, and the Finger
Lakes Land Trust, as well as numerous other public and private recreational facilities within or near the
Town of Ithaca. Both Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park are located within the
Town of Ithaca.
The Town of Ithaca provides an annual contribution to the City of Ithaca to support the operation and
maintenance of Stewart and Cass Parks.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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4. What’s Here Today
Overview of Town Park, Trail & Preserve System
Each park, trail or preserve in the Town’s system carries a unique set of features which begin to define the
recreation type and user groups. Town facilities can be grouped into the following categories: parks / active
recreation, preserves / passive recreation, and trails. While active facilities require significant
infrastructure and movement (e.g., sports fields, playgrounds, basketball courts), passive recreation
focuses on open, natural spaces for unstructured leisure like hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking. The trails
provide a recreational and commuter systems, connecting various parks, preserves, neighborhoods,
workplaces and other community resources.
The Town of Ithaca park, trail and preserve system consists of a wide variety of types and sizes of
facilities. These facilities include twelve developed neighborhood parks, one developed community park,
six nature preserves, four multiuse trails, and numerous walkways. The existing Town parks provide a
range of recreational facilities including play structures, ballfields, playfields, sledding hills, picnic areas,
nature trails, and even a community garden in one undeveloped Town park. The multi-use trails and
walkways provide off-street alternatives for joggers, bikers, and walkers, as well as commuting paths to
work, school or shopping. Dog waste facilities are available at several sites.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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Map of Existing Parks, Trails & Preserves
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
14
Parks
The Town of Ithaca Public Works Department maintains a system of 12 neighborhood parks, one
community park, and several yet to be developed park sites. These parks provide a range of active
recreational facilities including play structures, ballfields, playfields, grills, picnic tables, park benches, and
walking trails. The Town also holds an easement at the Coddington Road Community Center, which allows
the public to use some of their recreation facilities. At Tutelo Park, Valentino Field is a regulation sized
Little League field that is available for rent. The Tutelo Park pavilion is also available for rent. The Town
also owns approximately 38 acres of parkland that is not currently developed for any active uses. Appendix
A includes additional information on each respective park property.
Trails
The Town owns and maintains approximately eight miles of off-road multi-use trails for jogging, walking,
bicycling, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Portions of the South Hill Recreation Way, East Ithaca
Recreation Way, and Gateway Trail pass through attractive woodland and meadows and afford local
residents’ convenient access to high quality natural settings. The Town’s multi-use trails also provide
important commuter alternatives for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The Town recently installed trail counters at several locations to help understand the use of the Town trails.
The counters are being used year-round and show fluctuation based on the season and when colleges are
in session. The following table shows the average daily use of the various trails.
Trail Average Daily Traffic Years in Use
South Hill Recreation Way (Juniper DR) 162 January 2023 – January 2026
Forest Home Walk 35 January 2023 – January 2026
Gateway Trail 18 January 2025 – January 2026
East Ithaca Recreation Way (Pew Trail) 103 January 2023 – January 2024
Appendix B includes additional information on each respective trail.
Preserves
Nature preserves are protected areas dedicated to conserving wildlife and natural resources. They contain
habitats where ecosystems thrive with minimal human interference. They also provide spaces where
people can reconnect with nature, learn about environmental stewardship, and find a peaceful setting.
These lands must generally possess unique flora or fauna, geological formations, freshwater wetlands or
streams, scenic values, or other features that may qualify for recognition or protection.
The six preserves within the Town of Ithaca consist of a mix of habitat types that support a wide range of
plants and animals. The preserves total approximately 352 acres and may contain walking paths, benches
and picnic tables, interpretive signage, and parking areas. In general, the preserves are managed on a
passive basis, including infrequent mowing of any paths, reduction of invasive species, maintaining a
walkable trail surface as appropriate, and clean-up of storm damage as necessary. The Town will not be
developing these preserves for active uses and many of them have deed restrictions limiting their future
uses. Appendix C includes additional information on each respective preserve property.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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Recreation
While the Town of Ithaca does not host or conduct any recreational programs on its own, it does
participate in the local Joint Youth Commission (JYC) and the Recreation Partnership.
In 2014, the Town of Caroline, Town of Ithaca and the Villages of Cayuga Heights and Lansing joined
together to form the new expanded JYC to offer programs year-round for youth who live in these
communities. Programs are offered after school and during school breaks and the summer. These
programs are open to youth aged 10 and up.
The Recreation Partnership is an inter-municipal collaboration between ten municipalities within
Tompkins County. The Ithaca Youth Bureau Recreation Division is the program provider. Tompkins County
Youth Services provides planning and financial coordination. The contributions of the county and the
participating municipalities help keep programs affordable and accessible. You are automatically a
member if you are a resident of the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, Towns of Caroline, Danby, Dryden,
Enfield, Groton, Newfield, Ulysses (including students who attend Trumansburg Schools) or the Village of
Lansing; Recreation Partnership members receive a discounted program fee.
In addition to organized adult and youth sports leagues, Town residents may also participate in
recreational programs through the YMCA, Cornell Cooperative Extension, 4-H, and other local
organizations. Seasonal programs and summer camps are also offered at Cornell University, Ithaca College,
and through various other local organizations.
Park and Trail Rules and Regulations
To enhance and promote the safety and enjoyment of everyone using the Town of Ithaca parks, trails, and
facilities, and to assure that everyone has an equal opportunity in the use and enjoyment of such facilities,
the Town has established various rules and regulations. Town park and trail facilities are generally open
from ½ hour prior to sunrise to ½ hour after sunset.
For a complete list of all park and trail rules, see Chapter 200: Parks and Recreation Areas of the Town of
Ithaca Code.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
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5. What We Hope For
The 2025 Engagement with Parks Report from the National Recreation and Park Association documents
that people use and value the programs and services that local park and recreation agencies deliver to
their communities every day. The report shows that more than 227 million adults or a household member
in the United States visited a local park or recreation facility at least once between August 2024 and
September 2025. The report also shows that approximately 2 in 3 adults (68%) strongly agree that parks
and recreation is an important service provided by their local government.
Summary of Town Survey
The Town is committed to enhancing residents’ quality of life by providing recreational opportunities that
foster connection to nature, promote health, and strengthen community. The Town conducted a resident
survey from 2020/2021, which was designed to better understand community opinions, preferences, and
patterns of park and trail use. Because the Town values public input, resident feedback plays an essential
role in shaping future recreational planning. The Town takes great pride in its parks, trails, and preserves,
and seeks to reassess which amenities should be prioritized for development in the coming years. The
survey findings will help guide efforts to expand the trail network and introduce strategic new recreational
initiatives, making it an integral part of the Town’s long-term planning process.
The 213 survey responses indicate that 92% of Town of Ithaca residents rate the quality of Town recreation
facilities as excellent or good. Approximately 66% of respondents are very satisfied or somewhat satisfied
with current developed parks used for play and active recreation, and approximately 81% of users report
being very or somewhat satisfied with the passive recreational facilities. However, a substantial portion of
respondents never use Town parks or preserves, and even among trail users, the majority visit only once
or twice rather than on a regular basis. Walking is the most common activity, followed by birdwatching,
enjoying nature, and biking. Most users learned about parks through personal exploration or word of
mouth, suggesting limited visibility of Town offerings. Residents identified several barriers that limit their
use of parks and open spaces. The most frequently cited constraints include not knowing where facilities
are located and living too far from accessible recreation areas. Secondary concerns include lack of time
and insufficient maintenance of existing facilities.
When asked what recreational facilities or programs are needed or should be expanded, the top three
responses were hiking & walking trails (20%), bike paths (16%), and conservation or natural areas (14%).
These findings will guide the Town in better meeting community needs. The results highlight a clear need
to increase public awareness of park locations and amenities, develop programs that encourage more
frequent and sustained use of parks and trails, and expand and maintain trail networks to improve
accessibility and user experience. Additional information regarding the survey results can be found in
Appendix A.
National Recreation & Park Association Standards
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to building
strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. NRPA advances this
vision by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals as a catalyst for
positive change in service of equity, environmental resilience, and overall health and well-being. NRPA
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
17
Park Metrics is a comprehensive source of benchmarks and insights for park and recreation agencies.
Launched in 2009, these agency performance resources assist park and recreation professionals in the
effective management and planning of their operating resources and capital facilities.
According to NRPA, the typical park and recreation agency offers one park for every 2,437 residents served,
with 10 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. With the Town having a population of 22,283, that would
mean the Town should only need 9 parks and approximately 223 acres of parkland to serve Town residents.
While the Town already greatly exceeds national standards for number of parks and acreage, the existing
Town park system is not evenly distributed throughout the Town and the public continually expresses
interest in new or additional facilities. East Hill (7 parks) and South Hill (4 parks) have the bulk of the Town’s
active, developed parks.
While the Town does refer to the NRPA standards and guidance for general park planning, it does not
strictly follow the breakdown of the national standards, as we have found they do not always represent
local Town needs, interests and values.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
18
6. Growing Forward
The basic principles of this park, trail, preserve and recreation plan are presented in the following goals
and recommendations. Designed to guide the Town as it carries out this plan over the coming years, these
goals and recommendations will serve as benchmarks against which the Town can measure its progress.
Some of the recommendations may be carried out solely by the Town, while others could be cooperative
efforts with neighboring municipalities, New York State, non-for-profit organizations, developers, or
private landowners.
Park and trail development facilities should be planned while high quality park sites, pedestrian and bicycle
routes, and important ecological open space resources are still undeveloped and available. By planning
and taking action now, the Town can meet its goals in the most efficient and cost-effective manner for
taxpayers.
Goals
Recommendations
1. Design a system of trails to connect existing and future Town parks and preserves with residential
neighborhoods, commercial districts, and places of work. Identify gaps in the trail system and
prioritize trail development to create a Town and regional trail system.
2. Provide recreational opportunities for people near their home and workplace.
3. Develop an interconnected network of Town parks, trails and preserves to provide active and
passive recreational opportunities for all Town residents.
4. Ensure adequate public access to the recreational resources of Cayuga Lake, including support of
the City’s Stewart and Cass Parks.
5. Provide high-quality parks, trails and preserves. Maintain and improve/upgrade existing facilities
and amenities at existing parks, trails and preserves based on changing demand and trends.
Develop new parks, trails and preserves to meet changing or unmet needs.
6. Promote the Town’s adopt a park/trail program to help care for the Town facilities.
7. For parks and trails where the Town only has a lease/license/easement, work with landowner to
obtain full permanent Town ownership, where appropriate.
8. Develop digital tools (app, storymap, GIS maps, webpages, etc.) showcasing the Town parks, trails
and preserves for both local residents and visitors, showing locations and amenities. Tools could
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
19
also include Conservation Board scenic view locations, Town historic markers, and other Town
highlights.
9. Incorporate additional educational components (interpretive signage, brochure/guides, etc.) into
various parks, preserves and trails.
10. Continue to improve ADA accessibility at all Town recreational facilities.
11. Continue to remove invasive plants in all Town parks, trails and preserves and replant where
possible with native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.
12. Ensure staffing and maintenance equipment is adequate for current and new facilities to uphold
current high maintenance standards. Staffing and equipment should be considered as each new
facility is acquired and developed.
13. Combine, organize, and consolidate signage at entrances to all existing Town parks, trails and
preserves. Provide improved signage Town-wide to make it easier for residents to find and use
parks, trails and preserves.
14. Incorporate planning for climate resiliency into the development or updating of Town recreational
facilities.
15. Reevaluate and update the Town’s park permit system.
Funding and Donation Related Recommendations
1. Promote the Town’s program where residents can donate a tree or bench in memory/honor or
someone.
2. Explore developing a program/guidelines where donations can be easily accepted by the Town for
the development or improvement of parks, trails and preserves.
3. Actively seek public and private sources of outside funding for acquisition, development or
improvement of Town parks, trails and preserves.
4. Continue to support the Town’s Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan Reserve Account with
annual contributions.
5. Structure an economically sustainable parks, trails and preserve system to support the goals of all
recreational groups.
Recommendations for Town Parks, Trails and Preserves
Parks (develop new and improvements to existing):
1. Vincenzo Iacovelli Park - replace the existing playground and explore moving it to a more
accessible location in the park. Potentially create additional parking.
2. Saponi Park – develop the community park, potentially including a ball field or multi-purpose field,
parking lot, restroom facilities, playground, shelter, etc. Provide a walkway connection to
Peachtree Lane.
3. West Hill Park – develop the community park, potentially including a playground, improved access
and a parking lot, nature trail, shelter, basketball/pickleball court, etc.
4. Compton Park – develop the neighborhood park, potentially including a small playground, open
lawn area, nature trail, picnic area, etc. Provide a trail connection to the adjacent Sage Preserve.
5. Woolf Park – develop the neighborhood park, potentially including a small playground and picnic
area with trail connections to Woolf Lane and Grove Road.
6. Park off Perry Ln - (neighborhood park) (???) (pending road construction and near-by
development)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
20
7. Explore new elements/facilities to include in existing or new parks, including tennis and/or
pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, bocce ball court, infrastructure for teenagers and seniors, fitness
trail/equipment, volleyball court, etc.
8. Seek to acquire additional park properties in locations that do not currently have close to home
recreational opportunities.
Trails (develop new and improvements to existing):
1. South Hill Recreation Way - develop additional parking along the existing trail. Options may
include City of Ithaca owned lands on Coddington Road and near the existing Iacovelli Park.
2. South Hill Recreation Way - work with the Towns of Dryden, Danby and Caroline to extend the
multi-use trail south from the existing Burns Road entrance to the Tioga County line.
3. South Hill Recreation Way - work with the City of Ithaca and the SouthWorks developer to extend
the South Hill Recreation Way from the Hudson Street entrance to the Gateway Trail at Stone
Quarry Road.
4. Inlet Valley Path - work with private landowners and NYS Parks to obtain access to construct a
multi-use trail that would connect Tutelo Park, Saponi Park and the Black Diamond Trail.
5. West Hill Path Network – connect existing and future parks, trails and preserves on west hill with
a trail system. Trail network could also provide connections to the State’s Black Diamond Trail and
the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s West Hill Wildway.
6. South Hill Path Network – connect existing and future parks, trails and preserves on south hill with
a trail system. Trail network could also provide connections to Buttermilk Falls State Park, the
South Hill Recreation Way, and Ithaca College.
7. Provide a trail connection between the South Hill Recreation Way and the East Ithaca Recreation
Way / Pew Trail.
Preserves (develop new and improvement to existing):
1. Culver Road Preserve - Enhance the Culver Road Preserve with additional internal connecting trails
and educational components (interpretive signage, guided walks, etc.), etc.
2. Sage Preserve – Develop a parking area off King Road E. and additional trails to connect to the
parking area, existing trails, adjacent properties (Ithaca College, Namgyal Monastery, etc.), and
additional access points. Explore if some of the new trails from the King Road E parking area could
developed to be accessible (boardwalks, pavement, stone dust, etc.) to accommodate wheelchairs
and mobility issues.
3. Glenside Preserve - Develop a formal entrance(s) and internal trail loop. Explore acquiring
adjacent lands to improve access.
4. Develop a management plan for each of the preserves discussing natural features, existing and
proposed facilities, removal of invasive plants, native planting opportunities, management of deer
and invasive pests, general maintenance requirements, etc.
5. Seek to acquire additional preserve lands to protect natural resources, selected open spaces,
environmentally sensitive areas, unique natural areas, to buffer already protected properties, and
to provide additional passive recreational opportunities.
6. Add interpretative signage in preserves when possible.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
21
Recommendations Involving Other Agencies
1. Maximize intermunicipal cooperation and partnerships between the public and private sectors to
deliver high quality recreational facilities and services for Town residents.
2. Coordinate development of the Town’s park, trail and preserve system with the efforts of
surrounding municipalities.
3. Support the Finger Lakes Land Trust in the acquisition, development, programming, and
maintenance of properties that can provide additional active or passive recreational opportunities
in the Town of Ithaca, including the West Hill Wildway.
4. Support the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in the acquisition,
development and maintenance of properties located in the Town of Ithaca, including the Black
Diamond Trail between Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park.
5. Collaborate with the City of Ithaca, Tompkins County, NYS Parks, and other partner groups to
expand the local trail system.
6. The Town shall establish and/or maintain regular contact with the Ithaca School District, Ithaca
College, and Cornell University to ensure that community access to school facilities remains
available.
Recreation Related Recommendations
1. Continue to support the Joint Youth Commission, the Recreation Partnership, and other
organizations providing recreation programs to Town residents.
2. Explore opportunities to increase recreational activities or events based on demand and trends.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
22
Map of Proposed Future Parks Trails, and Preserves
(insert newer map – to come – needs more discussion of future facilities and related recommendations)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION
23
7. Making It Happen
Phasing and Implementation
The level of investment needed to carry out the projects and activities outlined in this plan is significant.
It is important to remember that it is an investment, a commitment of financial resources now for future
advantage or benefit, that is being proposed in this plan. These benefits will be enjoyed by all Town of
Ithaca residents for generations to come.
This plan is a significant investment in the understanding of the park, trail and preserve needs and
opportunities in the Town of Ithaca. It is important to continue community dialogue about the Town’s
recreational opportunities and open spaces into the future, not only to help build public support, but to
ensure that the plan remains dynamic and responds to changing needs and opportunities.
The implementation of this plan will require the continued coordination and collaboration by the Town of
Ithaca’s Engineering, Public Works, Finance, and Planning Departments in the acquisition, development,
and maintenance of the Town’s parks, trails, and preserves.
Potential Funding Sources
A reliable and diverse set of funding sources is vital to fully implement the goals and recommendations in
this plan. In order to develop this set of funding sources, the Town will identify likely internal and external
funding sources and pursue appropriate sources on a project-by-project basis. Additionally, ongoing
operations and maintenance costs need to be considered in addition to capital costs.
The range of funding agencies, priority areas, and funding requirements is constantly shifting, as is the
amount of money made available through each of these resources. Careful attention to the changes is
important.
The breakdown of potential funding sources for the future acquisition, development and maintenance of
the park, trail and preserve facilities include:
- Town of Ithaca Budgeting
- Town of Ithaca Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan Reserve account
- County, State, and Federal Grants
- Private and Non-Profit Grants
- Private Donations and Volunteer Services
- Fees for Facility Use
The Town’s Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan Reserve account includes funds designated for the
purpose of future park development, preservation of open space, and the purchasing of development
rights, as outlined in the Town’s Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan, as adopted on December 12,
1997. This account is funded by the Town Board making an annual re-designation of a portion of the
Fund Balance of the General Townwide Fund from unreserved to reserved. In 2025, the Town Board
transferred an additional $100,000 into this account.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendices
Appendix A
Individual Park Descriptions
Appendix B
Individual Trail Descriptions
Appendix C
Individual Preserve Descriptions
Appendix D
2020/2021 Resident Survey Results
Appendix E
Town of Ithaca Policy on Naming Town Parks (Adopted July 8, 2002)
Appendix F
Adopt a Park, Trail or Preserve Agreement
Appendix G
Buy a Bench / Tree Programs
Appendix H
Park/Trail Permit Application
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix A
Individual Park Descriptions
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
COMPTON PARK
(Undeveloped)
LARISA LN
INVENTORY
• 2.9 Acres
• Undeveloped
DESCRIPTION
This undeveloped park is in the
South Hill area of the Town, within
the Schickel Road / Larissa Lane
residential development. The park
currently serves as a lovely natural
space.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
This land is extremely wet with
inadequate drainage and slopes,
which will limit its development as
a park. A portion of the property
was used as a fill site prior to Town
ownership and will require grading
to use that area. Currently, the
Town mows the field annually when
it is dry enough to do so.
There are currently no plans to
develop this park, but that could
change depending on the needs
and interest of the neighborhood,
and the availability of funding.
Potential elements could include a
small playground, open lawn area,
nature trail, and a picnic area. In
2026, the Town acquired the
adjacent Sage Preserve property, so
any development of this park
should also include a trail
connection with the preserve.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this park that should be
removed. Native trees and shrubs
should be planted following the
removal of the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EAST SHORE PARK
EAST SHORE DR
INVENTORY
• 0.29 Acres
• Pavilion
• Mutt Mitt Station
• Cayuga Lake Waterfront
• Parking Lot
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Lawn Area
• Grills
• Cayuga Lake Blueway
Trail access
DESCRIPTION
This park is our most heavily used in
the Town. This hidden gem is being
discovered more each year. At any
given time during the warmer
months, this park is at full capacity
and then some. The park is located
off Route 34 and the driveway
entrance is shared with the Cornell
University Sailing Center. From
early afternoon till the sun goes
down, this park is active. This park
is used for a multitude of leisure
activities (sunbathing, picnics, dog
walking, scenic views, fishing). The
shoreline has an area where one
can sit and enjoy the scenery of
Cayuga Lake. Swimming is not
allowed at the park.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Parking is at a premium at East
Shore Park (approximately 14
spaces). Daily, there are cars lined
along the road attempting to visit. If
any property becomes available
near the park, it would be wise for
the Town to consider it for that
purpose at a reasonable price.
Maintenance is a daily activity at this site. If the weather is
nice, Town staff must visit the site every day to collect garbage
and recycling.
This land is owned by Cornell and leased to the Town on a 99-
year lease (signed 1998). The Town should seek permanent
ownership or extension of the lease when it expires.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EASTERN HEIGHTS
PARK
SKY-VUE RD, TUDOR RD &
JOHN ST
INVENTORY
• 15.2 Acres
• Playground
• Full Basketball Court
• Play Field
• Nature Trail
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Mutt Mitt Station
• Parking Lot
DESCRIPTION
Eastern Heights Park is a
neighborhood park in the East Hill
area of the Town. The park has
multiple access points (Tudor Rd.,
John St., Sky-Vue Rd.). There is a
modern playground with several
benches and picnic tables
surrounding it. A full basketball
court is located near Tudor Road,
which is the only full one in the
Town. This park also has a large play
field which is used for baseball and
soccer events. Within the 15.2
acres, there is a mowed path and a
woodchip trail that meanders
through the forest.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining all of the existing park
elements is a priority, including the
pavement and path surfaces. Waste
collection is always an issue at this
park. This actively used park is a
priority for the Town.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this park that should be
removed. Native trees and shrubs
should be planted following the
removal of the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
FOREST HOME PARK
FOREST HOME DR
INVENTORY
• 0.68 Acres
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Lawn Area
• Small Parking Lot
• Scenic View of Fall Creek
DESCRIPTION
This park is a small neighborhood
area with open lawn and multiple
benches and picnic tables. It is
located within the hamlet of Forest
Home and very near to Cornell
University. It is often frequented by
members of the Forest Home
community, who help to maintain
plantings and have community
picnics/meetings within the park.
The park is directly across the street
from the Forest Home Walkway,
which the Town also maintains.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
General maintenance and mowing
are a priority in this park. The Town
also has some plantings and a pump
station that we maintain in this
park. The busy Forest Home Drive
creates issues for maintenance and
access to the park. There are
currently no plans to further
develop this park, but that could
change depending on the needs
and interest of the neighborhood.
This land is owned by Cornell and
leased to the Town on a 99-year
lease (signed 2012). The Town
should seek permanent ownership
or extension of the lease when it
expires.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
GRANDVIEW PARK
SLATERVILLE RD &
TERRACEVIEW DR
INVENTORY
• 2.73 Acres
• Playground
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Paved 1/5-Mile Walking
Path
• Parking Lot
• Mutt Mitt station
• Play Lawn
DESCRIPTION
Grandview Park is a neighborhood
park located off Slaterville Rd.
(access through Hillside Alliance
Church parking lot). There is also
pedestrian access from
Terraceview Dr., which leads to the
paved path/trail. There is adequate
parking within the park, located
next to the playground equipment.
The playground includes a
wheelchair accessible swing set. A
paved, loop walking trail is offered
with a play lawn in the center.
Invasive plants alongside Slaterville
Rd have been eliminated.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining the walkway and
playground area are priorities at
this park. It is heavily used in the
warmer months as an exercise trail
and by dog walkers. General
upkeep is a precedence here. There
may be opportunities to convert
some of the unused open lawn to
pollinator gardens.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
HUNGERFORD HEIGHTS
PARK
DOVE DR
INVENTORY
• 1.3 Acres
• Playground
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Half Basketball Court
• Play Lawn
DESCRIPTION
Hungerford Heights Park is a
neighborhood park located on
Dove Dr. in the Eastern Heights
area. The south end of the park
features a playground encircled by
Maple trees that provide a nice
shade canopy. A sealed and painted
half-court basketball area abuts the
playground area. This park contains
several attractive native plantings
throughout. Parking is available
along the road, but it is primarily
used by the neighborhood.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Monitoring ash trees along the
property boundaries and
maintaining the current facilities
are a priority at this park.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
NORTHVIEW PARK
NORTHVIEW RD W
INVENTORY
• 1.1 Acres
• Playground
• Short Nature Trail
• Picnic Tables/Benches
DESCRIPTION
Northview Park is located on
Northview W Road, off Coddington
Road. This park contains a modern
playground and a short, mowed
walking trail. Invasive plant removal
occurred within this park several
years ago, followed by a mass
replanting of native trees
throughout the property.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining the current playground
and new native plantings are the
priority for this park. The
playground and associated mulch
area requires frequent weeding.
The Town should continue to
monitor ash trees for removal while
establishing a native landscape.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
PARK (Undeveloped)
Perry Ln
INVENTORY
• 1.97 Acres
• Undeveloped
DESCRIPTION
This is a small piece of property in
the West Hill area of the Town.
Williams Brook runs along the
southern boundary of the property.
It is accessible (walking) from Perry
Lane, although you would have to
cross other private properties. This
area is close to the Town’s West Hill
Park (22 acres).
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
The Town mows this property
annually. If the Town ever decides
to build and develop on this park
site, additional land may need to be
acquired for access from Perry
Lane, Bundy Road, or West Hill
Park.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
SALEM PARK
BIRCHWOOD DR N
INVENTORY
• 2.4 Acres
• Playground
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Woodchip Walking/Nature
Trail
• Grills
DESCRIPTION
Salem Park is a neighborhood park
located on Birchwood Dr. N in the
Northeast area of the Town. The
park has a driveway that leads to a
playground area with a lovely shade
canopy. It is surrounded by forest
area with several newly planted
native trees. There is a meandering
trail throughout the woods, which
leads to neighborhood access on
adjoining streets. Benches are
prevalent along the walking trail.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Salem is a wonderful neighborhood
park that is actively used by the
community in the Northeast.
Maintaining and improving the
walking path are goals at this park,
as this area could be improved in
the future.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
SAPONI PARK
(Undeveloped)
SEVEN MILE DR
INVENTORY
• 8.2 Acres
• Undeveloped
DESCRIPTION
This undeveloped park is located on
Seven Mile Dr. in the Inlet Valley.
This parcel consists of 8.2 acres of
field and wooded area, with a
stream running along the northern
property boundary. The property is
located close to the Town’s Public
Works Department facility. It is
currently farmed and used as an
open space.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
No maintenance is done on this
land at the current juncture. This
land has been discussed many
times over the years with a variety
of development ideas, including a
recreational/play area, sports field,
walking trail, and parking lot. The
Town should continue the pursuit
of improving this property in the
future and open it to the public.
There is an existing small strip of
land that extends to Peachtree
Lane, which could provide
pedestrian access to the park from
that neighborhood when it is
developed.
Discussions have also included
creating a trail that would connect
Saponi Park to Tutelo Park.
However, for this to occur, land or
easements would have to be
acquired between the parks.
Need map of new park
location
Need photos of new
park location
Need photos of new
park location
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
SAUNDERS PARK
KING RD E.
INVENTORY
• 1.78 Acres
• Playground
• Parking Lot
• Walking Trail (linking
Whitetail Dr. to E. King Rd.)
• Picnic Tables/Benches
DESCRIPTION
This is the Town’s newest park,
completed in 2023. This park
contains six parking spaces, a
playground, and several picnic
tables and benches. Scenic views to
the north and east can be enjoyed
from this park.
A stone dust trail starts on E. King
Road, connects to the Hospicare
trails system, and meanders behind
the Whitetail and Saunders
neighborhoods, into the park. An
additional wood chip trail leaves
the park down the hill and connects
to Whitetail Dr.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Many residents have expressed
concerns about the walking trails
and the proximity to their property.
Screening is an issue with these
trails, so the Town must continue to
monitor this situation as it comes
up. Continuing to work with
neighbors and Hospicare should be
always considered when operating
this park and associated trails.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TAREYTON PARK
TAREYTON DR & WINSTON CT
INVENTORY
• 2.08 Acres
• Playground
• Backstop for
Baseball/Softball
• Northeast Ithaca
Recreation Way Crosses
Property
• Grills
• Play Lawn
• Picnic Tables/Benches
DESCRIPTION
Tareyton Park is a neighborhood
park located in the Northeast area
of the Town. It is accessible using
the Northeast Ithaca Recreation
Way, and from Tareyton Dr. and
Winston Dr. The playground area is
in the Northeast corner of the park
with a shade canopy. In addition to
the playground, there is a
grilling/picnic area and benches
scattered throughout. The play
lawn area is substantial and is used
for several sports practices and
informal play.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
This park is an excellent place for
exercise and walking. There is an
updated playground that is up to
current playground standards. The
play field is one of the largest in the
Town. It would be advantageous to
the Town to utilize this area more
with leagues/recreation for its
residents in the future. Maintaining
the forest area and continuing open
dialogue with Cornell on future
plans for this parcel, is a goal of the
Town.
This land is owned by Cornell and leased to the Town through
a revocable license (signed 1965). The Town should seek
permanent ownership or a permanent easement for this park.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TROY PARK
TROY RD & WHITETAIL DR
INVENTORY
• 4.20 Acres
• Parking Lot
• Play Lawn
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Playground
DESCRIPTION
Troy Park is a neighborhood park
located on South Hill. It can be
accessed off Troy Rd by a paved, yet
slightly steep, driveway. There is
also pedestrian access from
Whitetail Dr., with a paved walking
path down to the park area. This
4.2-acre land area is very spacious
and open. Invasive plant removal
has left several open spaces on the
upper end of the park. The
playground is a modern structure
with numerous shade maples
surrounding it.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Mowing and general maintenance
is required at this park. Drainage
issues have to be monitored and
addressed as they appear.
The Town maintains a mowed path
under the power lines from this
park to the water tank to the
northwest.
While not part of this park, the
Town owns an additional 7.5 acres
directly to the north, which is
mostly wooded with a small
wetland. This parcel Is not
considered park space, but park
uses (nature trail) could potentially
be expanded to this parcel in the
future.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TUDOR PARK
PARK LN
INVENTORY
• 5.37 Acres
• Playground
• East Ithaca Recreation Way
Crosses Property
• Wooded Walking Trail
• Grills
• Mutt Mitt Station
DESCRIPTION
Tudor Park is a neighborhood park
located in the Eastern Heights
neighborhood. The playground
structure is located at the west end
of the East Ithaca Recreation Way.
The East Ithaca Nature Preserve
lands borders this park offering a
nice natural area for walking as
well. A grill area with picnic tables is
accessible when using the facility.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
The modern playground and
general upkeep make this an easy
property to maintain. The Town
should look at the additional 3.5
acres which were added to this park
in 2016 and explore the potential
for a new trail connection to Park
Lane or other expanded uses.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this park that should be
removed. Native trees and shrubs
should be planted following the
removal of the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TUTELO PARK
BOSTWICK RD
INVENTORY
• 8.31 Acres
• Playground
• Full Size Cal Ripken
Baseball Field with
Dugouts, Bleachers, and
Batting cage
• 30’ x 40’ Pavilion with
Paved Access Driveway
• Nature Walking Trail
• Parking Lot
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Mutt Mitt Station
• Grills
• Restrooms
DESCRIPTION
Tutelo Park is one of the Towns
most frequented facilities. The
ballfield is used primarily by local
Cal Ripken leagues in Ithaca. It can
also be used for recreational use by
residents or by renters of the
park/pavilion. Accompanying the
ball field are restrooms and storage
building. The pavilion in the rear of
the park can be rented out by the
public for a small fee. The park also
includes a large playground and
nature trail, including interpretive
signage of native trees.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Daily maintenance is required at
Tutelo Park, be it the restrooms,
ball field, or general clean up.
Discussions have also included
creating a trail that would connect
Saponi Park to Tutelo Park.
However, for this to occur, land or
easements would have to be
acquired between the parks.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
VINCENZO IACOVELLI
PARK
JUNIPER DR
INVENTORY
• 5.39 Acres
• South Hill Recreation Way
Crosses the Property
• Half-Court Basketball
• Picnic Tables/Benches
• Small Pavilion
• Playground
DESCRIPTION
Iacovelli Park is a neighborhood
park located off the South Hill
Recreation Way at the end of
Juniper Drive. There are a few
parking spaces available at the end
of Juniper Dr. The Park has
benefited from an invasive plant
removal project, with new native
plantings installed. A sealed and
painted half-court basketball area is
very popular. This Park is a great
stop along the South Hill Recreation
Way.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
The playground is outdated
(wooden) and is scheduled for
replacement in a more accessible
location near the basketball court.
Plans also include adding several
additional parking spaces in the
park. Additional invasive plant
removal is necessary and
maintaining the mowed areas
should continue.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
WEST HILL PARK
CONIFER DR & OAKWOOD LN
INVENTORY
• 21.7 Acres
• Community Garden
DESCRIPTION
West Hill Park, a 21.7-acre piece of
land within the West Hill area of the
Town. This property has pedestrian
access from Oakwood Ln. and
Conifer Dr., but no direct road
access. The property contains a
large wooded area to the south and
a large open field to the north, that
the Town mows annually. Williams
Brook runs along the north edge of
the property. Currently the West
Hill Community Garden resides on
this property, serving as a
community garden for residents
who wish to join at a small fee
(approximately 80 garden plots).
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
Currently, the Town mows this
property annually and maintains
and supports the community
garden, which should continue.
If adjacent properties are
developed and access is improved,
the Town should consider
improvements to this park. New
park elements could include
parking, walking trails, a
playground, picnic areas, open play
fields, and other facilities for people
of all ages.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this park that should be
removed. Native trees and shrubs
should be planted following the
removal of the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
WOOLF PARK
(Undeveloped)
WOOLF LN & GROVE DR
INVENTORY
• 1.63 Acres
• Undeveloped
DESCRIPTION
This is an undeveloped park in the
West Hill area of the Town. This
parcel is 1.94 acres and primarily
wooded. There is a small open path
that is mowed throughout. It is
used for cross country skiing at
times in the winter months.
CONDITIONS & FUTURE PLANS
The Town mows the walking/cross
country path annually. Drainage
issues have to be monitored and
addressed as the appear, as there
are several ditches throughout that
run water onto neighboring
properties.
The Town should continue to
monitor ash trees for removal while
establishing a native landscape.
There are a large number of
invasive plants in this park that
should be removed. Native trees
and shrubs should be planted
following the removal of the
invasives.
There are currently no plans to
develop this park, but that could
change depending on the needs
and interest of the neighborhood,
and the availability of funding.
Future park elements could include
a small playground and picnic area
with trail connections to Woolf
Lane and Grove Road.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix B
Individual Trail Descriptions
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EAST ITHACA
RECREATION WAY
(GAME FARM TO
MAPLE)
GAME FARM RD & MAPLE AVE
INVENTORY
• 1.19-mile paved trail
• Picnic tables/Benches
• Mutt Mitt Stations
• Parking at Game Farm Rd.
• Connections to Cornell
campus
DESCRIPTION
This trail is part of the East Ithaca
Recreation Way and is used for
recreation and as a commuter path
to the Cornell campus. It primarily
has a paved surface with grass
shoulders. At Game Farm Road,
there is a small parking area and a
connection to the Dryden Rail Trail.
The Town performs winter
maintenance on this trail.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage,
pavement, and tree maintenance
as needed. Many native trees have
been planted beside the trail, along
with the removal of invasive
species. The Town should continue
the removal of invasive plants as
needed. The Town plans to
continue to maintain the existing
trail through regular maintenance.
As this trail continues to become
more popular, the Town may want
to explore creating additional
parking.
This land is owned by Cornell and the Town has an irrevocable
license (signed 1982) for this trail section.
(need to add photos)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EAST ITHACA
RECREATION WAY
(MAPLE TO HONNESS)
MAPLE AVE, MITCHELL ST &
HONNESS LN
INVENTORY
• 1.2-mile paved trail
• Mutt Mitt Stations
• Picnic tables/Benches
• Connections to Cornell
Campus
DESCRIPTION
This trail is part of the East Ithaca
Recreation Way and is used for
recreation and as a commuter path
to the Cornell campus. It primarily
has a paved surface with grass
shoulders and can be accessed from
Maple Ave, Mitchell St, and
Honness Lane. The Town performs
winter maintenance on this trail.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage,
pavement, and tree maintenance
as needed. Many native trees have
been planted beside the trail, along
with the removal of invasive
species. The Town should continue
the removal of invasive plants as
needed. The Town plans to
continue to maintain the existing
trail through regular maintenance.
This land is owned by Cornell and
the Town has a revocable license
(signed 1978) for this trail section.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EAST ITHACA
RECREATION WAY
(WILLIAM & HANNAH
PEW TRAIL)
PINE TREE RD, SNYDER HILL RD,
REGENCY LN & PARK LN
INVENTORY
• 0.8-mile oil and stone trail
• Parking at Snyder Hill Rd
• Gazebo
• Little Free Library
• Benches
• Mutt Mitt Stations
• TCAT Bus Stop
DESCRIPTION
The southernmost portion of the
East Ithaca Recreation Way is an
0.8-mile trail. It has several
connections, most notably along
Pine Tree Rd and Tudor Park. This
trail meanders throughout the East
Ithaca Nature Preserve and the Pine
Tree Wildlife Preserve while
connecting to the Eastern Heights
neighborhood. The Town performs
winter maintenance on this trail.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage,
pavement, and tree maintenance
as needed. Many native trees have
been planted beside the trail, along
with the removal of invasive
species. The Town should continue
the removal of invasive plants as
needed. The Town plans to
continue to maintain the existing
trail through regular maintenance.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
GATEWAY TRAIL
STONE QUARRY RD & ELMIRA
RD (NYS ROUTE 13)
INVENTORY
• 1.1-mile stone dust trail
• Connection to Buttermilk
Falls State Park
DESCRIPTION
This newly developed trail
(completed 2021) follows the
former railroad bed from Stone
Quarry Road down across the
bridge over NYS Route 13, to just
past Home Depot. This trail has a
stone dust surface and provides a
connection to Buttermilk Falls State
Park.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage, trail
surface, and tree maintenance as
needed.
The Town should continue to work
with the City of Ithaca and NYS
Parks on future expansions and
connections to the South Hill
Recreation Way and the Black
Diamond Trail.
This land is owned by NYS and the
Town has a cooperative agreement
(signed 2019) for this trail section.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
NORTHEAST ITHACA
RECREATION WAY
WARREN RD, MURIEL ST,
TAREYTON DR, WINSTON DR &
WINTHROP DR
INVENTORY
• 0.5-mile paved trail
• Benches
• Crosses Tareyton Park
• Mutt Mitt station
DESCRIPTION
This trail is used for both recreation
and as a commuter path, especially
by students of Dewitt Middle
School and Northeast Elementary
School. It provides connections to
several residential neighborhoods,
BOCES, and the two schools. It
primarily has a paved surface and
can be accessed from Winston Dr,
Tareyton Dr, Muriel St, Warren Rd,
and Winthrop Dr. The Town
performs winter maintenance on
this trail.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage,
pavement, and tree maintenance
as needed.
The trail crosses property owned by
Cornell University, BOCES, and the
Ithaca School District.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
SOUTH HILL
RECREATION WAY
HUDSON ST, CODDINGTON RD,
JUNIPER DR & BURNS RD
INVENTORY
• 3.4-mile stone dust trail
• Picnic tables/Benches
• Crosses Iacovelli Park
• Mutt Mitt stations
• Parking at Burns Rd. and
Juniper Dr.
DESCRIPTION
The South Hill Trail is mostly built
upon the abandoned railroad bed
of the Cayuga and Susquehanna
Railroad. This is a multi-use trail
with a primarily a stone dust
surface and is heavily used year-
round. The trail can be accessed
from Hudson St, Coddington Rd,
Juniper Dr, and Burns Rd.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The Town maintains this trail with
regular mowing and drainage, trail
surface improvements, and tree
removal or trimming as needed.
A project to remove invasive plants
and replant with native trees and
shrubs along the trail was
completed in 2020. The Town
should continue the removal of
invasive plants as needed.
Continue to work with the City of
Ithaca and the Towns of Dryden,
Danby and Caroline on future
extensions and connections to the
trail.
Explore options to create additional
parking for trail users.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix C
Individual Preserve Descriptions
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
CULVER ROAD
PRESERVE
CULVER RD & BOSTWICK RD
INVENTORY
• 155.3 Acres
• Parking lots
• Walking trails
• Benches
DESCRIPTION
Culver Road Preserve is made up of
four separate areas (Dress Woods,
Gerda Knegtman’s Glen, Marcia’s
Woods, and Babcock Ridge). These
areas stretch from the north side of
Culver Road south to Bostwick
Road. This preserve consists of
open fields and established
forested areas, with several
streams located south of Culver
Road. The Babcock Ridge portion
features beautiful views to the east
and south and contains two small
parking areas and trails (completed
in 2026). An accessible trail from
the upper parking area leads to one
of the view points.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Depending on the public use of
these new trails, there is the
potential to expand the trail system
through other portions of the
preserve in the future. It is
anticipated that some of these
trails may be a narrow footpath
style trail and will involve several
stream crossings.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this preserve that should
be removed. Native trees, shrubs
and wildflowers should be planted
following the removal of the
invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
EAST ITHACA NATURE
PRESERVE
REGENCY LN, PARK LN &
SLATERVILLE ROAD
INVENTORY
• 27.98 Acres
• Benches
• Gazebo
• Mowed Walking Trails
• East Ithaca Recreation Way
Crosses Property
DESCRIPTION
East Ithaca Nature Preserve is a
wooded property with several open
fields in East Ithaca. This preserve
has several mowed walking trails, a
gazebo, benches, and a portion of
the East Ithaca Recreation Way
crosses the eastern side of the
property. Extensive invasive species
eradication has occurred in the
preserve over the years. New native
trees and shrubs have been planted
to establish a native landscape,
including as part of several
community planting events.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining the exiting mowed trail
system, benches and the gazebo
are the priorities at this preserve.
Drainage issues will continue to be
monitored to ensure adjacent
residential properties on the
west/south are not affected.
Despite previous invasive plant
removals, there is still a large
number of invasive plants in this
preserve that should be removed.
Native trees, shrubs and
wildflowers should continued to be
planted following the removal of
the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
GLENSIDE PRESERVE
FIVE MILE DR & GLENSIDE RD
INVENTORY
• 7.05 Acres
• Undeveloped
DESCRIPTION
Glenside Preserve is a wooded area
along the City of Ithaca municipal
line, with access from Five Mile
Drive (Route 13A) and Glenside
Road. There are no formal trails or
other amenities in this preserve.
There is a Town water line along the
western boundary of the property
that is mowed annually by the
Town, which provides some
informal access to the preserve.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
The current plans for this preserve
are to monitor drainage issues and
to maintain it as a forested area.
For any development of this
preserve to occur, access would
have to be improved from Five Mile
Drive and/or Glenside Road. While
some neighbors current walk the
mowed area over the water line
and other informal trails, the
development of formal trails could
be considered in the future if there
is neighborhood or general public
interest.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this preserve that should
be removed. Native trees and
shrubs should be planted following
the removal of the invasives.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
PINE TREE WILDLIFE
PRESERVE
PINE TREE RD & SNYDER HILL RD
INVENTORY
• 13.95 Acres
• Benches
• Mowed Walking Trails
• East Ithaca Recreation Way
Crosses Property
DESCRIPTION
Pine Tree Wildlife Preserve is a
mostly wooded property in East
Ithaca. This preserve has several
mowed walking trails, benches, and
a portion of the East Ithaca
Recreation Way crosses the eastern
side of the property. Extensive
invasive species eradication has
occurred in the preserve and new
native trees and shrubs have been
planted to establish a native
landscape.
The Finger Lakes Land Trust holds a
conservation easement on this
preserve, which includes annual
monitoring inspections.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining the exiting mowed trail
system and benches are the
priorities at this preserve.
Despite previous invasive plant
removals, there is still a large
number of invasive plants in this
preserve that should be removed.
Native trees and shrubs should
continued to be planted following
the removal of the invasives.
Drainage issues will continue to be
monitored to ensure adjacent
properties are not affected.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
SAGE PRESERVE
CHASE LN, RIDGECREST RD, K.
RD EAST & SCKICKEL RD
INVENTORY
• 136.79 Acres
• Mowed Walking Trails
DESCRIPTION
Sage Preseve is a mix of forested
areas and successional growth with
several streams and wetlands. The
previous landowner maintined a
mowed trail system on the
property, including access from
Chase Lane.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining and improving the
existing mowed trail system is the
priority at this preserve.
There is the potential to create a
small parking lot off King Road E.
and expand the trail system
through other portions of the
preserve in the future. Trail
connections could be provided to
other adjacent roads along with the
Ithaca College and Namgyal
Monastry properties. Being one of
the flatter preserves in the Town,
there may also be opportunities for
some of the new trails to be ADA
accessible.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this preserve that should
be removed. Native trees, shrubs
and wildflowers should be planted
following the removal of the
invasives.
Need map of new preserve
location
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
WESTHAVEN PRESERVE
HELEN”S WAY
INVENTORY
• 10.7 Acres
• Mutt Mitt Station
• Mowed Walking Trails
DESCRIPTION
Westhaven Preserve is a mostly
wooded parcel with a mowed trail
running north to south across the
property. Access is provided from
Helen’s Way and through an
easement across a private
driveway, extending from Elm
Street Extension. There is a small
parking area at the Helen’s Way
entrance and several benches are
provided along the trail.
CONDITION & FUTURE PLANS
Maintaining the existing mowed
trail system and benches are the
priorities at this preserve.
There is a large number of invasive
plants in this preserve that should
be removed. Native trees and
shrubs should be planted following
the removal of the invasives.
Drainage issues will continue to be
monitored to ensure adjacent
residential properties are not
affected.
There is the potential to expand the
trail system through other portions
of the preserve in the future, if
there is neighborhood or general
public interest. It is anticipated that
some of these trails may be more of
a narrow hiking trail style.
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix D
2020/2021 Resident Survey Results
(Selected Questions)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 1
Question 2
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 3
Question 4
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 5
Question 6
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 7
Question 8
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 9
Question 10
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 11
Question 12
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 13
Question 14
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Question 15
Question 16
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix E
Town of Ithaca Policy on Naming Town Parks (Adopted July 8, 2002)
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix F
Adopt a Park, Trail or Preserve Agreement
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix G
Buy a Bench / Tree Programs
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
Appendix H
Park/Trail Permit Application
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN
TOWN OF ITHACA – PARKS, TRAIL, PRESERVES, AND RECREATION PLAN