HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-12_CompPlan_Complete.pdfVillage of Cayuga Heights
Comprehensive
Plan
Final Draft
November 15, 2012
Photo courtesy of Fred Cowett
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
i
Preface
Prior to 2009, Village of Cayuga Heights planning responsibilities, such as the review of all
site development plans, were addressed on an ad hoc basis by the Board of Trustees acting de facto
as the Village's Planning Board. In September of that year, the Board of Trustees divested itself of
responsibility for planning and created an independent Planning Board.
The Planning Board is made up of five voting members and one alternate with staggered
terms of one to five years. All members are Village residents with varied backgrounds who serve in
a volunteer capacity. Current members of the Board are: Fred Cowett, Sean Cunningham, Graham
Gillespie, Martin Harms (chair), Deirdre Hay (alternate), and Henry Richardson. Mark Morris
served on the Board from inception through August 2011 and Janet Shure from inception through
August 2010. Trustee Beatrice Szekely is the Board of Trustees liaison to the Planning Board in
succession to Trustee Diana Riesman. Deputy Village Clerk Angela Podufalski is Planning Board
administrative assistant in succession to former Deputy Clerk, Mary Jane Neff, and former Village
Clerk, Norma Manning.
In addition to reviewing site plan applications with Village Engineer and Code Enforcement
Officer Brent Cross and advising the Board of Trustees on land-use related matters in general, the
new Planning Board was charged with creating a new Comprehensive Plan for the Village.
The process of developing the Comprehensive Plan has involved a wide range of interests,
individuals and groups including Mayor Kate Supron, former Mayor Jim Gilmore, the Board of
Trustees, the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village professional staff, Tompkins County Planning
Department staff, and students from Cornell University's Department of City and Regional Planning.
It has also involved significant input from Village residents, including a public forum held in
the early stages at the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community and in the spring and summer of
2012. Substantial contributions by members of the public and vigorous debate, particularly about
zoning, were a feature of these forums.
Key to the overall effort has been the work of consultant George Frantz, AICP, who has
expertly guided the Board through the development and review process and is responsible for
drafting the majority of the text.
The Plan contains four parts: Plan Inventory which catalogs the historic and current assets
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
ii
that make the Village a distinctive place and contribute to its identity; Plan Goals and Objectives
which defines issues important to the Village's future and provides a framework for addressing
them; Plan Implementation Matrix which prioritizes the achievement of goals and objectives and
assigns roles to Village boards and departments for doing so; and Plan Implementation Details
which offers specific strategies for goal and objective achievement. These four parts are themselves
subdivided into seven themes identified by the Planning Board as important to the Village: Quality
of Life, Community Character, Ecology & Scenic Assets, Economy, Housing, Transportation, and
Public Services & Utilities. Together, they comprise a document that will hopefully serve as a guide
to the Village's future development and be of use to its residents and officials in the years ahead.
Martin Harms
Chair, Village of Cayuga Heights Planning Board
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
iii
Table of Contents
Part 1. Plan Inventory
Village Character 1
Village Demographics 8
Village Land Use 12
Village Ecology and Open Space 15
Village Parks and Recreation 19
Village Transportation 21
Village Public Services 27
The Village’s Government & Financial Structure 30
Village Zoning Law 33
Part 2. Plan Goals and Objectives 46
Introduction 46
Quality of Life 46
Community Character 49
Ecology & Scenic Assets 50
Economy 54
Housing 56
Transportation 59
Public Services & Utilities 62
Part 3. Plan Implementation Matrix 65
Part 4. Plan Implementation Details 68
Quality of Life 68
Community Character 74
Ecology & Scenic Assets 75
Economy 80
Housing 83
Transportation 84
Public Services & Utilities 87
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
iv
Figures, Maps & Tables
Figure 1. Cornell Heights Historic District 6
Table 1.1. Changes in Population in Village of Cayuga Heights - 1980-2010 8
Table 1.2. Population by Age Group in Village of Cayuga Heights - 1980-2010 9
Table 1.3. Number of Households by Size in Village of Cayuga Heights - 2010 11
Table 1.4 Village Expenditures - FY 2011-2012 32
Table 1.5 Village Revenues - FY 2011-2012 32
Map 1.1. Existing Land Use 13
Map 1.2. Ecological Resources 17
Map 1.3. Existing Sidewalks 23
Map 1.4. TCAT Bus Routes in the Village of Cayuga Heights 25
Map 1.5. Existing Zoning 36
Map 3.1. Future Land Use Map 73
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
1
Part 1. Cayuga Heights – A Village Inventory
Village Character
The character of any village is expressed through a combination of physical qualities
and social infrastructure. Physical qualities are expressed in the geographical setting and
built environment of buildings, streets, and landscapes. The social infrastructure refers to
the village population and its activities. This combination imparts a community identity.
The inventory that follows provides information that defines the community of the Village
of Cayuga Heights, drawing upon its historical development. Print sources have been used
as well as personal interviews. Gathering such data has been a critical step toward
compiling the first comprehensive plan in the Village’s century-long history.
Key Historical Developments
Jared Newman and Charles Blood founded the Village of Cayuga Heights by buying a
large tract of farmland north of Cornell University overlooking Cayuga Lake early in the
twentieth century. They envisioned a residential community for Cornell faculty families
and purchased several parcels of land, totaling roughly 1,000 acres. The first purchase of
some 650 acres was made in 1901 from Franklin Cornell, a son of the University’s founder,
Ezra Cornell. Despite great personal and financial challenges, Newman and Blood
succeeded in laying out the Village streets and developing its first neighborhoods between
1900 and the 1930s. At the time of its incorporation in 1915, Cayuga Heights encompassed
.44 square miles. In 1954, through the annexation of scattered residential development to
the north, it grew to its present size of 1.82 square miles. For many years thereafter, the
original Village precinct was commonly referred to as the “old” Village, and the newly
annexed area, extending from Upland Road to the Village of Lansing, as the “new.”
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
2
Cayuga Heights represented a new trend in community development in the early
20th century. It was a departure from the historic concept of a village centered on one or
more industries; the rolling topography and lack of substantial water sources, and lack of
railroad access in fact were significant deterrents to industrial development. Instead,
Cayuga Heights was designed as a residential neighborhood to serve the thriving industries
and businesses of Ithaca to the south, and a growing Cornell University. Throughout its
history the Village has not experienced any demand or economic need for industrial
development. It has instead filled an important role within the regional economy by
providing high quality housing close to the city and places of employment.
The introduction of the electric trolley car before World War I and the building of
the Village’s own wastewater treatment plant in the 1950s were major catalysts to its
physical growth as well as the establishment of its political autonomy. In the 1970s, the
treatment plant’s capacity was increased from 1 million to 2 million gallons per day in
order to meet increased demand. An independent municipality within the Town of Ithaca
and Tompkins County, the Village has chosen to maintain its own infrastructure of sewer
and other public services such as road maintenance, snow plowing, fire and police
departments. The decision was made not to join the City of Ithaca at the time of its 1954
extension and the question has not been raised since. Village policy has consistently
illustrated a sense of independence with fiscal frugality befitting its small size and
population of less than 4,000. Adopting a comprehensive plan is intended to affirm the
identity of Cayuga Heights and to position it for continuing growth and prosperity.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
3
Community Snapshot: Key Dates and Figures.
1901
Jared Newman and Charles Blood lay out first streets and lots, development of Village begins
Early
1900s
Ithaca Street Railway Co. extends trolley lines across Fall Creek and through Village, helping to boost its
growth
1915
Village of Cayuga Heights incorporated as a municipality, with a population of 137
1924
First elementary school built on Upland Road
Early
1930s
Ithaca Street Railway goes out of business as the automobile becomes the norm for transportation
1947
Development of Community Corners as a retail service center for Village residents
1950
According to US Census, Village population is 1,131 persons
1952
1 million gallons per day wastewater treatment plant constructed; Village adopts zoning regulations
1954
Village expands from .44 sq. mil to 1.82 sq. mi. by annexing Town of Ithaca areas north to Town of Lansing
border
1950-1970
Increased demands on wastewater treatment system due to growth trigger doubling of wastewater
treatment plant capacity to 2 million gallons per day
1969
First Congregational Church relocates from downtown Ithaca to Highland Road
1970
According to US Census, Village population is 3,130 persons
1975
Village joins other municipalities to create Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission
1980
According to US Census, Village population is 3,170 persons
1980
Cayuga Heights Elementary School is closed due to low enrollment. Community organizes to support
reopening the school in 1988 with enrollment recovery
1990
According to US Census, Village population is 3,457 persons
1995
The Kendal Corporation develops the former Savage farm off North Triphammer Road as Kendal at Ithaca, a
continuing care retirement community providing a mix of living arrangements, residential services,
amenities, and comprehensive on-site health care for life
2000
According to US Census, Village population is 3,738 persons
2010
According to US Census, Village population is 3,729 persons
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
4
Physical Layout and Architectural Heritage
Perhaps the most notable characteristic found in the Heights is its organic layout of
roads and lots, most pronounced in the area known as the Old Village. The result is largely
due to Newman’s collaboration with Harold A. Caparn, a landscape architect from New
York City. Many of the mature white pines lining The Parkway were originally planted as
part of Caparn’s plan.
A second defining element is the Community Corners commercial district.
Developed in the mid 1940s, the district has grown to encompass an area that brackets
Hanshaw Road between North Triphammer Road on the west and Pleasant Grove Road on
the east. The district extends along both sides of Upland Road approximately 700 feet
southward from its intersection with Triphammer Road and Hanshaw Road. The
Community Corners area today is comprised of the Corners Community and the Village
Green shopping centers, a gas station/convenience store, plus a number of stand-alone
office buildings along Hanshaw Road and Upland Road.
The original Corners Community Shopping Center building, a small but distinctive
white building with a red gable roof reminiscent of a colonial era tavern, still stands. The
building and the lawn area in front of it are considered to be a local landmark and defining
element for the Village.
Historically, the Community Corners area provided for a wide variety of retail
shopping opportunities, including for many years a small supermarket. Over the past two
decades, however, many of the former retail shops and the supermarket have closed and
much of the space has been re-occupied by professional offices and services.
The historic development of Cayuga Heights is notable for the lack of industrial
development. While there may have been limited opportunity for industrial development,
despite the rolling terrain and lack of water resources, its founders envisioned the Village
as supporting the well established and vibrant industrial sector centered on Ithaca proper.
Cayuga Heights would instead play a supporting role as a new residential neighborhood.
Because the Village is essentially built out, there are no locations within its boundaries
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
5
where industrial development could occur without significant adverse impacts on
surrounding homes and on the Village street system.
Village founders Newman and Blood established guidelines for architectural styles
and required their approval of house plans prior to construction. With few covenants or
deed restrictions currently in place, the Village relies heavily on its zoning regulations to
plan and guide new building projects in Cayuga Heights. Architecture styles in the Village
vary greatly; many found in the Old Village reflect nationwide trends that were popular in
suburban development during the first half of the twentieth century. As evident when
driving through the older sections of the Village, some homes contribute to a distinct and
quaint charm found in the Village, providing a unique sense of history. Some of the major
architectural styles are Arts and Crafts and variations of Greek, Tudor and Colonial revival.
A small portion of the Village of Cayuga Heights is designated on the National
Register of Historic Districts. It makes up approximately one-third of what is known as the
Cornell Heights Historic District that reaches from the City of Ithaca into the Village on its
southern edge near Cornell. The boundaries of the Cayuga Heights portion of the Cornell
Heights Historic District are Kline Road from the southern boundary of the Village to
Highland Avenue, thence south along Highland to the southern edge of the First
Congregational Church property, thence east to Triphammer Road, and south to the Village
boundary.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
6
Figure 1. Cornell Heights Historic District showing Village and City sections.
The original Cornell Heights subdivision, including the small portion that protrudes
into Cayuga Heights, is a relatively intact example of a turn of the century planned
residential suburban development. Cornell Heights was planned by William Webster, a
landscape architect from Rochester. The curvilinear street plan, use of topography and
naturalistic setting reflect the influence of noted landscape architect Frederick Law
Olmsted.
Thirty-five structures are identified within the portion of the Cornell Heights
Historic District that falls within the boundaries of Cayuga heights.
As distinct from the National Register of Historic Districts, there are no individual
building structures or sites in the Village of Cayuga Heights listed on the State or National
Register of Historic Places. There are a number of structures in the Village that would be
strong candidates for listing, meeting such criteria such as:
1. The properties are 50 years old or older;
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
7
2. They have retained its architectural integrity (i.e. it has not been extensively
altered);
3. They are associated with events, activities, or developments that were important in
the past, with the lives of people who were important in the past, or with significant
architectural history, landscape history, or engineering achievements; or
4. They have the potential to yield information through archeological investigation
about our past.
Individual properties can be eligible. Also however a collection of properties, not all of
which may be significant individually, but collectively may have historical significance, can
be included in a historic district.
2112 North Triphammer Road is an early- to mid 1800s Greek Revival home
and one of a number in the Village that may be eligible for listing on the State
or National Register.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
8
Demographics
The 2010 U.S. Census of Population and Housing estimates the Village of Cayuga
Heights population at 3,729 persons. This represents a statistically insignificant decrease
of 9 residents since the 2000 U.S. Census. Since 1980, the Village has experienced a
population increase of 17.9 percent, 9.1 % from 1980 to 1990 and 8.1% from 1990 to 2000.
(Table 1.1)
Table 1.1. Changes in Population in Village of Cayuga Heights - 1980-2010.
19
8
0
19
9
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
8
0
-19
9
0
20
0
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
9
0
-20
0
0
20
1
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
20
0
0
-20
1
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
8
0
-20
1
0
Population 3,170 3,457 9.1% 3,738 8.1% 3,729 0% 17.6%
Households 1,234 1,358 10.1% 1,497 10.2 1,541 2.9% 24.9%
Source: U.S. Census of Housing and Population
In comparison to neighboring municipalities, the Village of Cayuga Heights has
experienced substantially less population growth over the past thirty years. The Town of
Ithaca’s population grew by 28% since 1980, while the Town of Lansing’s population grew
by 32%. Cayuga Height’s smaller population increase can be attributed to the fact that the
Village is relatively built-out leaving little room for new development.
Comparison of the age profiles of area municipal populations reveals subtle
differences. While the Town of Ithaca contains a large and stable population of persons age
15 to 24, due to the presence of Cornell University and Ithaca College within its boundaries,
its population is aging with an increase in persons age 75 and older. The Town of Lansing ,
on the other hand, has seen small but steady growth across its entire age profile, except for
a declining population of persons age 20 to 24.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
9
Table 1.2. Population by Age Group in Village of Cayuga Heights - 1980-2010.
Age Group 19
8
0
19
9
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
8
0
-19
9
0
20
0
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
9
0
-20
0
0
20
1
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
20
0
0
-20
1
0
%
C
h
a
n
g
e
19
8
0
-20
1
0
Under 5 88 125 42.1% 86 -31.2 131 52.3% 48.9%
5 to 9 212 149 -29.7% 149 0.0% 157 5.4% -25.9%
10-14 172 129 -25% 181 40.3% 177 -2.2% 2.9%
15-19 340 356 4.7% 199 -44.1% 539 170.9% 58.5%
20-24 585 676 15.6% 360 -46.8% 398 10.6 -32.0%
25-44 706 885 25.4% 785 -11.3% 814 3.7% 15.3%
45-54 397 311 -21.7% 465 49.5% 369 -20.7% -8.1%
55-59 175 181 3.4% 171 -5.5% 204 19.3% 16.57
60-64 183 161 -12.0% 105 -37.3% 203 93.3% 10.9%
65-74 240 265 10.4% 310 17.0% 240 -28.6% 0%
75-84 135 162 20.0% 327 101.9% 267 -18.4% 97.8%
85 & Over 29 58 100.0% 148 155.2% 230 55.4% 693.1%
Source: U.S. Census of Housing and Population
A large number of person age 65 and older have always lived in the Village, given
the large number of professional, managerial and higher education academics among its
residents who have chosen to retire in place. (Table 1.2). In 1980 this segment of the
population accounted for 404 residents, or 12.4% of the total population. The construction
of the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community in 1995 brought a substantial increase in the
number of persons age 65 and over. Today some 737 residents, or 19.8% of the
population, are age 65 or older. Despite the increase in the older population, total
population did not increase between 2000 and 2010. This is due to declines in population
in the 45 to 54 year and the 65 to 74 year age brackets. (Within the 65 and older category
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
10
the decrease in the 65-74 year age bracket was offset by a steep increase in the number of
persons aged 75 and older.)
This increase in older population is also apparent when comparing data for the
Village of Cayuga Heights with Tompkins County as a whole. In 2010, some 19.7% of
Village residents were 65 or older. In Tompkins County, the percentage was only 10.8%, or
nearly half that of Cayuga Heights.
While the Village contains a relatively older population compared with the rest of
Tompkins County, it contains fewer adults age 25 to 54, the key age group for families
owning their own homes and making up a substantial market for retail goods and services.
The percentage of such persons in Cayuga Heights is only 31.7%, compared to 35.4% for
Tompkins County. Increasing the percentage of this age group will play an important role
in keeping Cayuga Heights a vibrant and indeed viable community.
The Census data do show a substantial reversal since 2000 in the decline of
residents under the age of 14 in the Village that took place between 1980 and 2010.
Between 2000 and 2010, the population of children under 14 increased by 50, or 12.1%,
following an increase of over 50% in the number of children age 5 or under. The viability
of the Cayuga Heights Elementary School is contingent upon an adequate base of younger
children living in the Village. Between 1980 and 1988 the Cayuga Heights Elementary
School was closed by the Ithaca City School District because of fallen enrollment.
There was also a substantial increase in the number of persons age 15 to19 in the
Village between 2000 and 2010, likely attributable to the relocation of freshman student
housing at Cornell to the north campus residential area, a small portion of which lies within
Cayuga Heights. In 2010, some 579 persons were identified in the Census as living in group
quarters within the Village, including students living in program houses, residence halls,
fraternities and sororities.
Household size in the Village of Cayuga Heights is consistent with its age profile.
There was a large spike in single person households after the opening of the Kendal at
Ithaca retirement community in 1995. Single person households now make up 41.9% of the
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
11
total households within the Village, a much higher percentage than the Town of Ithaca or
Tompkins County as a whole. (Table 1.3)
Table 1.3. Number of Households by Size in Village of Cayuga Heights - 2010.
Households Vi
l
l
a
g
e
o
f
Ca
y
u
g
a
He
i
g
h
t
s
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
of
To
t
a
l
To
w
n
o
f
It
h
a
c
a
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
o
f
To
t
a
l
To
m
p
k
i
n
s
Co
u
n
t
y
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
o
f
To
t
a
l
Total Number 1,541 100% 6,988 100% 38,967 100%
1 Person 646 41.9% 2,589 37.1% 12,958 33.3%
2 Person 492 31.9% 2,298 32.9% 13,347 34.3%
3 or 4 Person 327 21.2% 1,781 25.5% 10,283 26.4%
5 or more
Person 76 4.9% 320 4.6% 2,379 6.1%
Source: U.S. Census of Housing and Population
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
12
Land Use
The Village of Cayuga Heights encompasses 1.82 square miles, or about 1,164 acres,
made up of mostly single-family residences. Almost three-quarters of the Village,
approximately 870 acres, is dedicated to residential land use (Map 1.1). This category is
comprised of single-family dwellings, duplexes, and multiple-family housing, including
apartment complexes, fraternities and sororities, Ecology House, Townhouse Community,
and the Low-Rises at Cornell. Residential land use also includes approximately 60 percent
of the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community comprised of attached independent living
units.
Housing stock varies throughout the Village, with older, larger houses in the “old”
Village near the University and newer one-story houses in the northern part. In 2010 there
were approximately 870 single-family detached homes and 101 two-family homes.
Public and Institutional facilities take up about 28 acres. This includes the Village
Department of Public Works on Sheldon Road, Cayuga Heights Elementary School, Pleasant
Grove Cemetery, the wastewater treatment plant, Cayuga Heights Fire Department, and a
portion of the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community that is taken up by health-related
and assisted living units, as well as the Kendal at Ithaca multipurpose community center.
Another 25 acres of the Village is categorized Commercial in the area commonly
referred to as Community Corners where Hanshaw Road runs between the Village Green
and the Corners Community Shopping Center with an adjoining strip on the west side of
Upland Road. The commercial district includes the Verizon facility located to the south of
the Carriage House Apartments.
Almost 20% of the Village's area, or around 216 acres, is classed as vegetative cover.
This refers to land that is unused, either in vacant lots or in protected areas, such as Palmer
Woods and the greenway that surrounds the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community.
Many of these vacant lots are on the western slope of the Village along Remington Road.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
13
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
14
While some of these areas are commonly referred to as "public services,” like the
Kendal property, or as “vacant lots,” like the land along Remington Road, “woodland, brush
or meadow” is a more accurate description of such areas. “Woodland, brush or meadow” as
a land use category also includes such ecologically important areas as Palmer Woods and
the Newman Tract, both managed by Cornell Plantations and designated by Tompkins
County as Unique Natural Areas. The ravine between the Townhouse Community and the
A-Lot parking lot on the section of the Cornell campus that falls within the Village also falls
into this classification.
Recreational areas account for another 27 acres, or about 2.3% of total Village area.
The area listed as recreational on Map 1.1 includes the Ithaca Country Club and Cornell’s
Jessup Fields. These are both private facilities and not available to all Village residents.
Route 13 is a limited access highway with a right of way through Cayuga Heights
that takes up approximately 20 acres along the west side of the Village and separates the
residences on Tyler Road from the rest of the Village in its northwest corner. The only
access to Tyler Road is through the Village of Lansing to the north.
Remaining acreage – apart from residential, public or institutional, commercial, and
vegetative land use – is taken up by the small amount of land covered by water and
wetlands in the northern portion of the Village. Streams run down to Cayuga Lake in
various locations.
While the large number of mature trees in the Village may give the impression that
there is a great deal of undeveloped land, a closer look suggests otherwise. Development in
Cayuga Heights is certainly not as dense as the City of Ithaca, but there are few sites
suitable for subdivision. As a result, the Village can plan on only a limited amount of new
construction, most of which will require tearing down and replacing older structures or
redeveloping sites. Such a trend may not be in the best interest of Cayuga Heights; the
Village character that residents list as a reason to live here would inevitably change.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
15
Ecology and Open Space
Located on the Allegheny Plateau and Lake Ontario Plain, within the Finger Lakes
region of New York, Cayuga Heights sits on a hilly area at the southeastern end of Cayuga
Lake. The upland, or eastern, side of the Village, where nearly half of the community lives
on a 0 – 6% slope, is approximately 900 feet above sea level. The western side, where
another quarter of the population lives on 7 – 15% slopes, drops down just under 400 feet
toward the lake. Beautiful, steep and deep gorges with 5 – 54% slopes contain dry and
seasonal streams that run through Cayuga Heights.
Two streams are classified as active, although lacking in trout life and, therefore, not
involving New York State Department of Environmental Conservation jurisdiction. They
are Renwick Brook in the northern half of the Village and Pleasant Grove Brook in the
southern half. Cayuga Heights and the surrounding region are located in the Seneca River
Watershed and the Oswego River drainage basin. The Village is subdivided into portions of
two smaller watersheds, the northern section in the East Cayuga Lakeshore South
Watershed and the southern section in the Fall Creek Watershed. The boundary between
the two watersheds is just south of Pleasant Grove Brook and runs approximately east-
west, following the course of all natural water sources in the Village flowing down to
Cayuga Lake below.
There are no wetlands within the Village that have been mapped by either the NYS
Department of Environmental Conservation or the National Wetlands Inventory. There
are, however, a number of areas that would likely qualify using current State and Federal
criteria, as indicated on Map 1.2.
The Tompkins County Environmental Management Council has classified certain
Village sites as Unique Natural Areas (UNA) that possess outstanding environmental
qualities and deserve special attention for preservation and protection. UNAs are chosen
because characteristics make them extremely vulnerable to a wide range of direct and
indirect impacts and site disturbances. UNAs have no legal status and include both public
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
16
and private land that may not be open to the public. UNA inventory data may be utilized,
however, on an advisory basis in planning and in efforts to identify and mitigate potential
impacts. To be classified as a UNA a site must meet at least one of five of the following
criteria:
is an important natural community;
is a high quality example of a particular type of ecosystem;
has rare or scarce plants or animals;
has resources of geological importance;
has aesthetic or cultural qualities.
Within Tompkins County there are 192 UNA sites, four of which are located within
the Village of Cayuga Heights: UNA 101, the Newman Tract; UNA 102, Renwick Slope,
which has two boundaries and counts as two sites; and UNA 104, Palmer Woods. (Map 1.2)
Renwick Brook Just above North Sunset Drive
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
17
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
18
UNA 101, the Newman Tract, is located in the southwest corner of the Village off
Sunset Drive. It encompasses some 7.6 acres of land and was selected for its rare plant
community, scenic and aesthetic value and old growth forest. Newman Tract slopes are
typically over 15% with elevation between 397 and 583 feet above sea level. The special
land-use information in the UNA inventory notes that the Tompkins County Greenway
Coalition has identified a biological corridor in the tract and a mature forest stand with
trees over 150 years old.
The Newman Tract is valued by residents as an open space and recreational
resource, and is a Cornell Plantations Natural Area. The ecological community contains
mixed oak and chestnut oak forests, hemlock-northern hardwood forest and oak-beech-
hickory-pine type forest areas, a rocky headwater stream with shale cliff and talus slope
woodland. Elm-leaved goldenrod (Solidago ulmifolia) and hackberry (Celtis occidentalis),
which are rated as "locally rare," were found on the site. The UNA Inventory does not
contain much specific data regarding animal species.
UNA 102, Renwick Slope, runs along the western edge of the Village and was
selected for such ecological features as rare plants and plant communities, scenic/aesthetic
value and old-growth forest. The site has locally important views. Slopes exceed 30%,
between 400 feet and 700 feet above sea level. The site encompasses some 74 acres in
total, including areas lying in the Town of Ithaca, Town of Lansing and Village of Lansing.
The special land-use information notes from the Tompkins County Greenway Coalition in
its greenway plan document identified a biological corridor and a mature forest stand with
trees over 150 years old, as is the case on the Newman Tract.
Water resources information for Renwick Slope notes a lake or pond. The ecological
community consists of a rocky headwater and intermittent stream, forests of the beech-
maple mesic and Appalachian oak-hickory types, with a successional red cedar woodland, a
shale cliff and talus community and woodland.
Forked chickweed (Paronychia canadensis), hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), heart-
leaved alexanders (Zizia aptera), hoary mountain-mint (Pycnanthemum incanum), moss
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
19
phlox (Phlox subulata), palmate violet (Viola palmata), and pitch pine (Pinus rigida) were
all found on the site. They are all rated as "locally rare." The UNA Inventory does not
contain much specific data regarding animal species.
UNA 104, Palmer Woods, is in the southeastern corner of the Village, adjoining the
Cornell campus. It was selected because of bird watching opportunities, the plant
community, its urban green space with an old grown forest and scenic value. Slopes in a
number of places within the UNA exceed 30%. It is just under 44 acres in area, including a
small portion located in the Town of Ithaca.
The special land-use information notes a mature forest stand with more trees over
150 years old. The ecological community consists of mixed oak; hickory, white ash, and
oak; and maple and basswood rich mesic forests, as well as successional hardwoods, a
midreach stream, deep and emergent marsh, and sedge meadow. No rare or scarce plant
species were located on the site. The UNA Inventory does not contain much specific data
regarding animal species. Palmer Woods is also managed by Cornell Plantations as a
Natural Area.
Parks and Recreation
Within Cayuga Heights there is a limited number of park and recreation facilities.
Sunset Park off Cayuga Heights Road is important to both Village residents and people
coming from elsewhere who enjoy its lawns and scenic overlook for passive recreation.
In addition, residents have access to public and private park and recreation facilities
just beyond the Village boundaries. East of Cayuga Heights within the Town of Ithaca there
are recreation parks in the Tareyton and Salem Drive neighborhood known as “Cigarette
Heights” that are accessible by foot via paths from Community Corners to Texas Lane, from
Texas Lane to Simsbury Drive, Lisa Lane to St. Catherine Circle, and finally to the Northeast
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
20
Recreation Way bicycle and pedestrian path. Just north and east of Cayuga Heights there is
a conveniently accessible community park on Uptown Road in the Village of Lansing.
There are several privately owned and maintained but functionally semi-public
recreation facilities in close proximity to the Village and easily accessible by its residents in
the Village of Lansing, including the cooperative Ithaca Swim Club on Uptown Road that
offers a seasonal outdoor pool and tennis courts and the YMCA off North Triphammer Road
just past The Shops at Ithaca Mall, which offers a full array of recreation for children and
adults. Part of the present-day Pleasant Grove Road location of the Ithaca County Club,
which was founded at a previous site within the Village near the First Congregational
Church, lies within the Village. The Country Club offers a fine golf course, tennis courts and
social facilities that are often used by the greater community as well as its members.
Cayuga Heights residents also enjoy access to numerous recreational activities at
Cornell University and Ithaca College, including Cornell’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Course
owned by Cornell University on Warren Road just outside the Village in the Town of Ithaca
which has a clubhouse offering a restaurant and meeting facilities.
Villagers have access to the natural areas, Palmer Woods and the Newman Tract,
described above and administered by Cornell Plantations. The Plantations Arboretum and
its other gardens are open to the public and much enjoyed by residents. The recently
completed Cornell Plantations Visitor Center within the Arboretum is a center of
educational exhibits and visitor services.
The Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology on Sapsucker Road with its bird sanctuary
and walk trails is only one and a half miles from the eastern edge of the Village.
Although school playgrounds and playing fields are not open to the public during
school days or practice and games times, the grounds of the Cayuga Heights Elementary
School (CHES) and the Northeast Elementary School on Winthrop Drive just outside the
Village are very popular with parents and children. Ithaca High School and Boynton Middle
School offer playing fields, a running tack, tennis courts, and a swimming pool on their
campuses just below the Village at the base of Kline and Wyckoff Roads. It should be noted
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
21
that pedestrian access to Ithaca High School and Boynton Middle School is af fected by the
steep topography heading down and up the hilly and narrow Village streets, as well as by
the lack of sidewalks. On Warren Road, east of the Village adjoining Northeast Elementary
School, DeWitt Middle School offers athletic fields, baseball/softball fields, and an exercise
trail.
The Town of Ithaca provides bike paths and pedestrian walkways east and
northeast of Cayuga Heights, including The Northeast Trail, DeWitt Exercise Trail, and the
Lisa Lane, Simsbury and Place Walkways described above. Additionally, a footpath from
North Triphammer Road behind Warren Real Estate runs to Lisa Place. Cornell Plantations
provides a network of wonderful walk and bikeways; most Village residents access them by
car.
Transportation
The Village of Cayuga Heights owns and maintains 21 miles of roads; the few private
roads in the Village are Strawberry Lane, Park Place, Jessup Road (owned by Cornell), and
Country Club Road.
Most roads in Cayuga Heights primarily serve local residents and have relatively low
traffic volume, but high traffic volume is found on its roads that are used by drivers heading
to and from Cornell, downtown Ithaca, the Lansings, and beyond. Commuter use in the
Village is found on Hanshaw, Pleasant Grove, East Upland, North Triphammer, Triphammer
and Cayuga Heights Roads. Commuting traffic has grown proportionately with population
growth and commercial development in the Town of Ithaca, the Village and Town of
Lansing.
Cayuga Heights was envisioned as a residential community and lacks the history of
industrial development common elsewhere in the region. Because of this, its street
network was laid out to follow the contours of the land and to emulate country lanes. They
are characteristically narrower than standard city or suburban streets and have numerous
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
22
irregular curves as they follow the topography. As a result, most streets in the Village are
not suitable for use by contemporary large trucks.
The Village of Cayuga Heights street paving program repaves one mile of roadway
each year in the warm weather.All roads within the Village are paved, and the number of
roads is not projected to increase. Increased traffic on the commuting arteries impacts road
maintenance. Average daily traffic counts by the New York State Department of Transportation
show 29,000 vehicles on Route 13, whose four-lane limited access highway segment within
Cayuga Heights is its busiest roadway. Village access points are at Cayuga Heights Road
and North Triphammer Road just north of the municipal boundary.
The sidewalk network in the Village is limited to roads in the older section of the
Village (Map 1.3), and there are no current plans for expansion. Sidewalks are located on a
single side of a street and are repaired by the Cayuga Heights Department of Public Works.
A sidewalk along Hanshaw Road from Community Corners heading east along Hanshaw
Road to the Village boundary has been planned in coordination with a Tompkins County
project for a larger segment of the street, but this has been put off because of funding
problems and public opposition. In partnership with Kendal at Ithaca a pedestrian island
and new crosswalk were installed at Kendal’s North Triphammer Road entrance to
enhance pedestrian safety there, both for Kendal retiree residents and the residents of a
group home across the street.
Pedestrian access to the Ithaca High School and Boynton Middle School southwest of
the Village within walking distance for the school populations has been identified as a
safety issue
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
23
Map 1.3 Existing Sidewalks in the Village.
because there are no sidewalks on the steep and narrow hilly streets on the popular routes
to the schools. The routes take students along roads without sidewalks in the City and
Town of Ithaca as well as the Village.
Walkability for the school age population is a key concern also for parents of Cayuga
Heights Elementary School (CHES) whose younger children walking to school are served by
sidewalks on The Parkway and other streets, but not to the north of the school along a
small section of The Parkway, all of Highgate Road, Highland Road and other streets that
all lie within a half mile of the school and present reasonable sidewalk gradients.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
24
Public bus service in Cayuga Heights is provided by Tompkins Consolidated Area
Transit (TCAT) with six TCAT Routes currently servicing the Village. Bus routes through
the Village have become an issue of prime importance to some residents who perceive a
lack of attention to their input. The Village has proposed that TCAT service be extended
within the access roads to Kendal at Ithaca. Recently, the Village installed bus shelters at
both the intersection of Hanshaw Road and North Triphammer Road and at Pleasant Grove
Road adjacent to the Fire Department.
The newest TCAT route realignment in the Village involved diverting Route 30,
TCAT’s most heavily patronized service, from East Upland Road to Northway Road. TCAT
has cited gradient and curve issues as the rationale for this change, which brings the bus
directly past an entrance to Cayuga Heights Elementary School and has been a concern for
many residents. In response, the Village reduced the speed limit at all approaches to
Cayuga Heights Elementary School on Hanshaw Road, Upland Road and The Parkway from
20 to 15 miles per hour and made the Northway and The Parkway intersection a four-way
stop.
Commuting Patterns
According to the 2000 United States Census, 67% of Cayuga Heights residents used
cars, trucks, or vans to go to work, 12% walked to work, and 10% used public
transportation. In Tompkins County, 72% of residents used cars, trucks, and vans to go to
work, 17% walked to work, and 5% used public transportation. Most residents of the
Village and Tompkins County took less than 19 minutes to commute to work. The
relatively large percentage of Village residents walking and taking public transit to work
and the short commute time is accounted for by the Village’s proximity to Cornell
University. In addition, the Village has a sizable student population bordering the Cornell
University Campus. Incoming commuting traffic into the Village is concentrated in the
Community Corners area. Outbound traffic is concentrated in three areas of the County:
Cornell University, the research/business center at the Tompkins Regional Airport, and
Downtown Ithaca.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
25
Map 1.4a, TCAT Weekend Bus Routes in the Village of Cayuga Heights
Map 1.4b TCAT Weekday Bus Routes in the Village of Cayuga Heights
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
26
Transportation Priorities
Current transportation priorities are to keep the existing infrastructure in good
condition and to balance the transportation and safety needs of the Village population with
those of neighboring communities. Another priority is improving transit service.
One improvement proposed entails adding designated turning lanes to reduce
vehicle conflict points at the intersection of Triphammer, North Triphammer, Hanshaw,
East Upland and Pleasant Grove Roads in the Community Corners area. Under the planned
improvement, right-hand turning lanes would be instituted on northbound Pleasant Grove
Road and southbound North Triphammer Road
Traffic count information for major roads in the Village of Cayuga Heights is scarce
and discontinuous. The Village does not routinely conduct traffic counts. Traffic count data
is collected rotationally by New York State, Tompkins County and the Town of Ithaca.
However, New York State traffic count data are not uniform by the year collected and up-
to-date traffic volume data for local roads have only been collected for Hanshaw Road.
According to NYS Department of Transportation data, Route 13 through the Village carries
approximately 29,000 vehicles per day.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
27
Public Services
Of prime importance to the Village is its municipal water and sewer infrastructure.
The Cayuga Heights water supply comes from Cayuga Lake through the Southern Cayuga
Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission, a.k.a. Bolton Point, a joint entity made up of five
municipalities: the Towns of Dryden, Ithaca, and Lansing, and the Villages of Cayuga
Heights and Lansing. The Bolton Point water supply facility, located at 1402 East Shore
Drive has the capacity to process 9 million gallons of water a day (MGD). Recent daily
production averaged 2.476 million gallons a day.
The Village of Cayuga Heights owns a municipal wastewater treatment, or sewer,
plant at 951 East Shore Drive with an operating capacity of 2.0 MGD. Average dry and wet
flows are 1.5 MGD and 2.0 MGD respectively. The plant services the entire Village of Cayuga
Heights, most of the Village of Lansing, small portions of the Town of Lansing, the
Northeast area of the Town of Ithaca, and a very small portion of the Town of Dryden.
For the purpose of stormwater management, the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) categorizes the Village of Cayuga Heights a
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). As required by EPA Phase II Stormwater
Regulations, the Village has a local law for stormwater management covering six required
elements: public education, public participation, illicit discharge detection/elimination,
construction erosion control, post construction stormwater management, and municipal
operations.
By law, all stormwater sewers must be separate from the sanitary sewer system,
meaning it is illegal to connect a storm sewer to a sanitary sewer. Although the Cayuga
Heights wastewater system is not a combined sanitary and stormwater system (a.k.a. CSO),
because of the age of the system and the treatment plant’s maximum capacity of 2.0 MGD, a
large rain event has the capacity to overflow the system, causing untreated sewage to be
discharged into the lake. The Village’s separate stormwater collection system discharges
directly into Cayuga Lake.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
28
Public Utilities
New York State Electric and Gas Corporation (NYSEG) provides electricity and
natural gas to the Village of Cayuga Heights. It owns the distribution system of pipes and
wire and delivers services from multiple generation points.
A cell phone tower owned by Verizon is located within the Village south of the
Corners Community Shopping Center. The structure transmits cellular telecommunications
and is about 100 feet tall. Although recognized as important to modern
telecommunications, some residents are concerned about the tower’s impact on the
aesthetic quality of the community. New telecommunication towers are only allowed
within the Commercial and Planned Development zoning districts. The Village Zoning Law
regulates the location and construction of telecommunication towers. Building applications
are reviewed by Village Zoning Officer, the Zoning Board of Appeals, when necessary, and
the Village Planning Board. Applications are subject to site plan review, a visual impact
assessment, a local and intermunicipal public hearing and other review processes. In
addition, applications must comply with the Code of Federal Regulations and towers must
be designed not to interfere with air navigation.
Public Safety
Police protection and public safety is provided for the Village of Cayuga Heights by
its own Police Department located within the Village offices in Marcham Hall at 836
Hanshaw Road. The Police Department has a staff of 14 full- and part-time officers with a
central dispatch center for 24-hour communications between officers and the public.
The Cayuga Heights Fire Department provides volunteer fire protection for
residents and businesses, dispatched through the Tompkins County 911 central dispatch
system. In addition to providing fire and rescue, 24-hour emergency medical assistance and
light rescue service is rendered.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
29
The Department has an innovative, live-in “bunker” program that allows seven
firefighters, who are often students from the local colleges, to live in a second floor
dormitory at the station rent free in exchange for their duty shifts, thereby assuring the
Department’s ability to maintain its excellent response time of three minutes, the fastest
among all the volunteer fire departments in the surrounding townships. The Department
recruits new members bi-annually and enjoys a stable membership, except when student
members are out of town.
Education
Village of Cayuga Heights children in kindergarten through the fifth grade attend the
Cayuga Heights Elementary School (CHES), one of eight within the Ithaca City School
District. The present school building, built in 1956 on the site of an earlier one, has been
expanded several times. When it was closed between 1980 and 1988 for low enrollment, a
Montessori school was operated there and a Cayuga Heights Community Association was
formed to organize a wide array of community activities in the building. A group of district
parents and teachers worked very closely together on the 1988 school reopening.
CHES occupies 2.5 acres and has two playgrounds, a community built play structure,
a soccer field and a nature and fitness trail. There is an after school program for children
ages 5 to 12 affiliated with the Day Care and Child Development Council of Tompkins
County. The School is an integral part of the community and frequently mentioned as a
reason to move into the Village.
Although no longer operating, a Montessori House on The Parkway formerly offered
daycare and early childhood education for preschool children. Community Nursery School
with a toddler program and programs for children age 3 to 6 has been in existence since
the 1940s and for decades has been located at the First Congregational Church on Highland
Road.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
30
After elementary school, within the Ithaca City School District, young people from
Cayuga Heights attend Boynton or DeWitt Middle School in the sixth through eighth grades
and then go on to Ithaca High School.
The Village is served by Tompkins County Public Library located in 101 East Green
Street in the City of Ithaca, which is the Central Library for the Finger Lakes Library System.
The library offers a circulating collection of 263,000 items including books, paperbacks,
magazines, videos, DVDs, music CDs, and recorded books. An interlibrary loan service is
available to help patrons borrow items that are not owned by the library. There are
computers for public use. Wireless internet is also available in the library for people to use
their own laptop.
Village residents who are affiliated with Cornell University or Ithaca College have
access to the libraries of those two institutions. The Kendal at Ithaca retirement
community also has a library primarily for its own residents. The collection includes
books, journals, magazines, and CDs that are available for public use on site.
The Village’s Government & Financial
Structure
Government
The Village is governed by the Mayor and the six-person volunteer Board of
Trustees. The mayor oversees the Village staff, made up of the Clerk and Deputy Clerk, the
Treasurer, the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of Public Works, the 10 Public
Works Department employees, the Chief of Police and the 14 full- and part-time Police
officers, and two Police Clerks. The Chief of the Fire Department directs all aspects of the
volunteer Cayuga Heights Fire Department with elected junior officers. Additionally, The
Village Justice and Court Clerk make up the Village’s judiciary. A volunteer seven-person
Zoning Board of Appeals and a volunteer six-person Planning Board round out the Village
governing structure. Additionally, numerous individuals, such as the Village Forester,
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
31
serve the Village in a voluntary capacity and as members of various community boards and
commissions involved with area youth programs, the environment, local television and
wireless access, and more.
The Mayor represents the Village to the Tompkins County Council of Governments
where the incumbent mayor serves as a vice president. Current trustees represent the
Village as municipal colleagues on such bodies as the Town of Ithaca Planning Board and
the Tompkins County Health Care Consortium.
Mayoral and trustee positions are filled for two-year terms with Village elections
held in March annually. Three of the six trustees are elected each year. Village staff, board
and commission memberships are mayoral appointments approved by the Board of
Trustees. The Board of Trustees meets monthly to conduct the Village’s business.
The Village website, overseen by the Clerk, serves as the main point of
communications for the Village; all aspects of the Village government, including minutes of
the Board of Trustees meetings, may be referenced there.
Budget
The Village budget - $3.8 million expenditures for the July 1 – June 30, 2011-2012
fiscal year - funds its public services. These services include maintaining public safety
through police and fire protection and the Village court and maintaining the physical
infrastructure through the public works water and sewer systems, solid waste pick-up and
recycling, road maintenance, building and zoning code enforcement and more. Budget
expenses for FY 2011-2012 are broken down in Table 1.5.
The Village has a number of revenue sources that fund its operating expenses (Table
1.6). The primary source of its operating, or general fund, budget is property taxes at 65%,
and sales taxes at 18%, plus various fees. Funding for the maintenance and operation of
the Village water and sewer systems, including the Village-owned wastewater (sewer)
plant, which is its greatest capital asset with a value of over $2 million, comes from user
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
32
fees and benefit assessments rather than taxes. The Village contracts with a private
company, Yaws, for the operation of the sewer plant. Villagers purchase water from the
Southern Cayuga Lake Intermunicipal Water Commission (SCLIWC), a.k.a. Bolton Point, on
whose commission the Mayor and one other Village resident sit as two of the ten
commissioners that determine water rates and govern the operation.
Table 1.4. Village Expenditures - FY 2011-2012
Fund Amount
General Fund Expenses $3,583,050
Debt Service $244,450
Water Service $517,000
Sewer Service $927,000
Source: Village of Cayuga Heights Adopted Budget, April 27, 2011
Table 1.5. Village Revenues - FY 2011-2012
Revenue Source Amount
Property Tax $2,246,083
Sales Tax $630,000
Other Taxes, Fees, State & Federal Aid $591,417
Water Service Revenues $517,000
Sewer Fund Revenues $827,000
From Surpluses $460,000
Total Revenues $5,271,500
Source: Village of Cayuga Heights Adopted Budget, April 27, 2011
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
33
Because Village property taxes are the largest source of general fund revenues, the
value of taxable properties in the Village is critical. The total assessed value of taxable
properties in Cayuga Heights in 2010 was approximately $383,576,000. In addition to
taxable properties, 88 properties are tax exempt with an approximate assessed value of
$37,785,000, or 9% of total assessed valuation.
The Village enjoys a relatively robust property tax base. Excluding the tax exempt
properties within the Village, the amount of taxable property is just over $101,000 per
capita, which compares favorably with other villages in Tompkins County and the
surrounding region1 where the average is $64,500 per person.
Although the property tax base for Cayuga Heights is comparatively large, the fact
that the Village is essentially built out indicates that any growth in the property tax base
will be limited to increased valuations of existing properties.
Sales tax revenues are collected by Tompkins County and distributed to Cayuga
Heights based on the size of its population. Because the population of Cayuga Heights is
expected to remain relatively stable, while population is growing in the surrounding Town
of Ithaca, the Village’s share of County sales tax revenues will likely decrease.
Zoning Law
Since 1953 the Village of Cayuga Heights has regulated land use through zoning law
referring to the permissible height, number of stories and size of buildings and other structures;
the percentage of occupancy of lots and parcels of land that may be occupied; and the density of
population, Article VII of NYS Village Law. Article IX of the Village of Cayuga Heights Laws
establishes specific zoning districts and sets forth specific uses permitted in each district, as well
as design and operating standards. The Village has amended and updated its zoning regulations
on a number of occasions since their original adoption.
1 Aurora, Cazenovia, Dryden, Freeville, Groton, Lansing, Moravia, Owego, Trumansburg
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
34
Zoning is one of the key tools utilized to implement the vision set forth in a
comprehensive plan. The following commentary is not a complete analysis of the Village of
Cayuga Heights zoning regulations. Rather, it looks at the potential implications of current
zoning with regard to the character and land use activities in the Village and future
development or redevelopment within the Village.
For the purpose of zoning, the Village of Cayuga Heights is divided into four types of
zoning districts (Map 1.5):
Residence District
Multiple Housing District
Commercial District
Planned Unit Development District
The Village of Cayuga Heights has not had any history of industrial development.
Such land use was not anticipated in any early planning schemes for the Village for a
number of reasons discussed earlier in this document. Given the essentially built out
nature of the Village, no suitable opportunities for industrial development exist today.
Uses within each district are further broken down into land use activities permitted
with the issuance of a building permit; land use activities permitted upon the granting of
Special Approval from the Village Board of Trustees; and land use activities that are subject
to Site Plan Approval by the Village Planning Board.
The largest zoning district in the Village is the Residence District which covers about
75 percent of the land area in the Village. The uses permitted in the Residence District are:
residence for not more than two families with a total of not more than two other
occupants residing in the residence; or a residence for not more than one family
with a total of not more than three other occupants residing in the residence; or a
residence in which there is no family and a total of not more than four occupants
residing in the residence;
public schools;
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
35
home gardening;
golf courses, except a driving range or a miniature golf course conducted on a
commercial basis;
accessory uses as are customarily incidental to the main use of the property,
including: offices of a resident doctor, dentist, musician, engineer, teacher, lawyer,
artist, architect, or member of other recognized profession, where such office is a
part of the residence building; and
customary home occupation, such as dressmaking, hairdressing, laundering, home
cooking, of Family Day Care Home, conducted by one person only, resident in the
dwelling;
any municipal or public utility purpose upon approval by the Village Board;
any cemetery purpose upon approval by the Village Board.
The next largest zoning district classification is the Multiple Housing District. This district
covers approximately 138 acres, or about 12 percent of the land in the Village. The d istrict
is located in the southern portion of the Village adjacent to the City of Ithaca border and the
Cornell University campus. Permitted uses within the district are:
any use permitted in the Residence District;
dwelling for three or more families
churches or other places of worship including ancillary facilities such as convents,
parish houses and church schools;
public libraries and museums, private and parochial schools, nursery schools;
fraternities and sororities;
hospitals or sanitariums, except for treatment of patients with mental health issues,
and except for nursing or convalescent homes, which are prohibited;
any use by an institution of higher learning, upon approval by the Village Board of
Trustees.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
36
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
37
The Commercial District covers the area commonly referred to as Community
Corners and including the Corners Community and Village Green shopping centers plus
adjacent properties along Hanshaw, Triphammer, Upland and Pleasant Grove roads. The
district covers approximately 25 acres and permits the following land uses:
any use permitted in the Residence District and Multiple Housing District;
retail and services businesses, provided that any manufacture or processing of
goods on the premises is clearly incidental to a retail business conducted on the
premises;
business or professional office;
health and fitness center;
restaurants or dairy bar for the serving of food and beverages, upon special
approval of the Board of Trustees;
bank or other financial institution;
gasoline retail sales station including facilities for minor repairs, upon special
approval of the Board of Trustees;
theater, but not a drive-in theater, upon special approval of the Board of Trustees;
car-wash operation and car-rental operation, upon special approval of the Board of
Trustees;
and other approved uses.
In addition to the above three zoning districts there is one Planned Development
zoning district in Cayuga Heights. Located off North Triphammer Road, the district
encompasses about 100 acres of land. The objective of the Planned Development District is
to permit diverse land uses to be developed together on a single parcel of land as part of a
unified plan of development. Land and buildings may be used for any purpose to the extent
permitted elsewhere in the Zoning Law, subject to whatever requirements may be imposed
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
38
by the Village Board of Trustees in its approval. The existing Planned Development district
was created in 1993 to permit development of the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community.
The zoning regulations also contain in Section 17-B detailed provisions for the
control of telecommunications towers. These were adopted as Local Law No. 3 of 1998 and
mirror the standard approaches to controlling such facilities in conformance with the
federal Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Despite their relative simplicity and age, until recently the Village zoning regulations
have provided adequate protections against unwanted, undesirable or unattractive forms
of development. There are, however, a number of issues that have been identified in the
review of the current regulations. In no particular order with regard to priority or
importance: They include:
1. Lack of specific statements of purpose for the Residence, Multiple Housing, and
Commercial zoning districts. Well-crafted statements of purpose for zoning districts
can provide municipal boards and officials valuable guidance with regard to the
objective of the particular zoning district. On occasion where the zoning district
regulations may not be clear on a particular use, the language of the purpose
statement can provide valuable guidance for interpreting the district regulations.
2. There are no definitions for many of the terms utilized in the zoning regulations. An
important component of any set of zoning regulations is a comprehensive glossary
of terms. Whenever a community utilizes a specific word or words either outside
their generally accepted dictionary meaning or in relation to a very specific context
within the regulations, the word should be clearly defined in a glossary within the
zoning ordinance. In the review of the zoning regulations, definitions were only
found for "family," "building height," "sign" (with 6 associated definitions) "building
face," "building front," "shopping center," and several associated with
“telecommunications.” There are no definitions for key zoning terms such as "yard,"
"frontage," "lot depth," "dwelling," "retail," or "professional office," "institution of
higher learning," among other terms.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
39
3. The current definition of "family" (Sect. 2) appears to be outdated. It can be
interpreted to mean that marriage is a prerequisite for identification as a family, and
also can be interpreted as excluding adopted children as members of a family. A
common definition of family today is: "…two or more persons occupying a single
dwelling unit, related by blood, marriage or adoption, living and cooking together as a
single housekeeping unit, or two unrelated persons occupying a single dwelling unit
and living and cooking together as a single housekeeping unit…" This definition has
been found to accommodate the variety of household types that exist today. In
communities with large college student populations it can also control the
encroachment of student group housing into traditional family neighborhoods.
4. The zoning regulations are inconsistent; they permit "public" schools (undefined) in
the Residence District, but not "parochial" schools. There is no rational basis
presented for permitting parochial schools in the Multiple Housing District, but not
in the Residence District.
5. Limiting churches or other places of worship and their ancillary facilities to the
Multiple Housing District may be legally problematic. Although the Village is
practically built out and the possibility that construction of any new church,
synagogue, mosque or other religious institution will be proposed may appear
remote, the possibility does exist. In this country, religious institutions have
traditionally been located within residential neighborhoods, meaning the Village
should consider whether it is at risk of a constitutional challenge for not permitting
them in the Residence District as well.
6. The Village may wish to reconsider the current prohibition on nursing homes.
While the possibility of such facilities being developed in the Village may appear to
be remote, given an aging population, the potential is there. Moreover, the zoning
regulations do not provide for newer type housing for the elderly or disabled, such
as assisted living facilities or elder housing cottages that may permit older Village
residents to continue to live in the community. Providing more flexibility in zoning
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
40
for an evolving population will permit a wide diversity in terms of age groups in the
Village and enhance the overall quality of life.
7. The Village may wish to consider permitting, with appropriate design and operating
standards, bed and breakfast establishments. A number of large homes in the
Village, in attractive settings on relatively large lots, could be operated by resident
owners as bed and breakfast inns without adverse impacts to the surrounding areas.
Explicit design and operating standards, however, would be needed to protect
neighboring properties
8. The restrictions on building lot coverage for the Multiple Housing (12%) and
Commercial (15%) zoning districts should be reviewed. Lot coverage of 10 to15
percent is common and appropriate for lower density single-family residential
areas. In higher intensity districts, however, it can lead to inefficient use of available
land with little benefit to the community in terms of buffering or screening.
Generally in commercial and multi-family housing development, lot coverage by
buildings can be as high as 30 to 40 percent, depending on parking requirements,
and still provide for adequate buffer and yard setbacks. Yard setbacks, restrictions
on building height and massing and landscape screenings can be more effective
ways to ensure compatible commercial and multi-family development, and to
control the impacts on adjacent properties of such development.
9. No specific parking requirements for multi-family and commercial development
(Section 14) exist in the zoning regulations. This can lead to both too little parking
as well as too much parking. Enough empirical data are available through the
Institute of Transportation Engineers and other organizations for the Village to
establish definitive parking requirements for non-residential development. Equal
emphasis should be put on ensuring adequate parking and preventing construction
of excessive amounts of parking. One approach to parking, utilized by the Town of
Ithaca, is to permit a developer to build only 80 percent of parking spaces required
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
41
by zoning, provided the developer allocates enough land to accommodate the
remaining 20 percent of spaces should they prove to be needed.
10. The standards for the Board of Trustees granting special approvals, such as "… a
need for such use exists for the convenience of the neighborhood and that the
general welfare of the Village will be served and that there will be no excessive noise
in connection with the use…" and "… the location and size of the use, the nature and
intensity of the operation involved, and the size of the site in relation to it, the
location of the site with respect to roads giving access to it, and any other
reasonable requirements necessary to keep the proposed use in harmony with the
appropriate and orderly development…" are relatively vague and may lead to
controversy and conflict. In New York State, in general, the listing of a use as being
permitted by special approval is considered a legislative determination by the
municipality that the use is an appropriate use for the district(s) in which it is
permitted. The general intent of special approval reviews is to identify potential
adverse impacts of a proposed development and set conditions of approval that
ensure those impacts are mitigated. The burden of proof in denying or requiring
substantial mitigation measures for special approvals is on the municipality. By
establishing explicit design standards to be met by applicants for special permits,
however, the Village can both protect its interests and reduce the potential for
controversy and conflict.
11. The standards for Planning Board approval of site plan applications outlined in
Section 23 (II) should be reviewed. The site plan review process is intended to be a
technical review of a proposed development for compliance with zoning and with
generally accepted design and engineering standards, as well as to insure the health
and safety of the general public entering and using the facility. The legislative
determination by the municipality that the use is appropriate for the district(s) in
which it is permitted has already been made. Approval criteria such as "… location
and site of the use…" "…nature and intensity of the operation involved…" "…size and
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
42
topography…" "Location and dimension of buildings…" "Landscaping…" and
"Architectural features…" and "…other factors reasonably related to the health,
safety and general welfare…," without explicit standards, can lead to unnecessary
controversy and conflict. As with the special approval process, anticipating
potential impacts of potential developments subject to site plan approval and having
in place more explicit design standards can both inoculate the Planning Board
against potential conflict and streamline the review process.
12. The restrictions in the number and size of signs in Section 17 -A(B)(2) should be
reviewed. As currently written, the regulations governing the size, location and
number of signs make it extremely difficult for retail and service establishments in
the two shopping centers in the Community Corners commercial area to be "seen"
and recognized by motorists. Currently, both shopping centers are limited to one
freestanding sign, with sign faces not exceeding 18 square feet in area. As a result, it
is not possible to advertise tenant stores within the shopping centers to passing
motorists. Even prospective customers driving through the parking lots may have
difficult seeing signs due to distance and relative small size. Revising the existing
sign regulations in order to permit larger signage along streets and on individual
store facades could enhance the visibility and increase customers in the Community
Corners commercial area. Such revisions, however, have to be carefully crafted in a
manner that enhances merchant visibility while protecting the unique character of
the Community Corners commercial area.
13. The “On premises sign” restriction in Section 17(A) should be reviewed. Over the
past decade the federal courts have ruled in a number of cases that municipalities
may regulate the size and location of signs, but that the regulation of sign content
may be a violation of free speech.
14. The language used in the criteria set forth in Section 17(F)(3) for the approval of a
sign permit application, such as "…the smallest sign which will suit the purpose shall
be the guide…" and "A sign with only a few letters need no be as large as one with
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
43
many letters…" "The character of the neighborhood." appears to be somewhat
subjective. Generally, municipalities are free to regulate size and location, but
attempts to regulate design without more explicit standards can create unnecessary
conflict and controversy.
15. The zoning regulations currently do not address residential solar energy or wind
energy installations. Although residential solar energy installations may be
appropriate, wind powered energy systems may not be. While existing mature
vegetation may likely mitigate the visual impacts of wind turbines, lot sizes, noise
impacts and safety considerations may render them unsuitable uses within the
Village.
16. The zoning regulations currently do not list natural gas drilling as a permitted use
within the Village. Industrial activities have historically not been part of the fabric
of Cayuga Heights and have not been listed as permitted uses anywhere within the
Village. Moreover, given the land requirements of gas drilling operations, the
essentially built out character of the Village, the ecological sensitivity of the
undeveloped lands within its boundaries, and regulatory setback requirements,
appropriate sites for drilling within the Village are neither likely to be identified nor
to be permitted.
The above issues are the primary issues identified in the review of the Village zoning
regulations. A number of them are technical in nature and do not have major land use
related implications. They may be resolved relatively easily. A number of them, however,
involve major land use decisions and should be considered in the context of an overall
comprehensive planning process.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
44
Design Standards
A major issue, highlighted a number of times in the above discussion, is the lack of more explicit
design and performance standards for commercial, multi-family housing and other non-
residential land uses to guide both Village boards and prospective applicants. Examples of
useful standards include:
1. Requirements for vegetated buffer areas between non-residential and residential
development that include specific requirements governing type, number and
minimum sizes for vegetation and for screen fences to be utilized;
2. Outdoor lighting design standards for non-residential development that would
eliminate the potential for glare, "light trespass" onto adjacent properties, and the
projection of light into the atmosphere;
3. Minimum requirements for and ceilings on the maximum number of parking spaces
for non-residential land uses, as well as design standards for parking lots that set
minimum requirements for size and number of trees (per parking space), parking
bay layout and stormwater management facilities;
4. Minimum landscaping requirements for non-residential development, including size
and numbers of plant materials;
5. Minimum standards for useable open space and recreational areas for residents of
multi-family housing developments;
6. Specific standards for siting certain activities, for instance, gasoline pump islands
and canopies. Although across the country citizens and municipal officials have
expressed a desire to better screen such uses, for instance, by locating them to the
rear of the site, few municipalities have actually explicitly codified the requirement
in their zoning regulations. The gas station convenience store is used here as an
example because it has become a dominant feature of our landscape and also a
major source of conflict in zoning and site plan review.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
45
Conclusion
The above analysis is a review of the Village of Cayuga Heights from a land use
planning and regulatory standpoint. Although the Village zoning regulations appear to
function relatively well in protecting the Village and its residents, they are also in many
ways outdated, inconsistent to some degree and lack a number of key components, such as
definitions and design and performance standards. They do provide a solid foundation and
framework upon which to expand and improve the Village's land use and growth
management capacity.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
46
Part 2. Plan Goals and Objectives
Introduction
Key to an effective plan for the future is a set of clear and concise goals and
objectives that provide an overall framework for actions and policies that follow.
Goals are generally statements of a desired outcome, based on the values
held by a community at large, but which may not necessarily be attainable. Progress
toward any particular goal may not usually be easily quantifiable. Objectives,
however, are concrete actions or policies that can be taken to further the goals of a
plan. Progress toward completing these actions or enacting specific policies can be
measured in some manner.
The following goals and objectives are intended to address specific issues
related to the future of the Village of Cayuga Heights. Under each objective specific
recommended courses of action to be carried out by the Board of Trustees and other
Village boards are listed.
Quality of Life
Goal QL1: Ensure retention of the Village's residential character, and
improve upon the quality of life and economic viability of the
village.
Rationale: The Village is well known for its quality of life, …a residential village, a
quiet village, a village that accepted a few service stores to meet the needs of
villagers… in the words of long-time mayor Frederick G. Marcham. This community
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
47
attribute, however, is one that is consistently challenged as communities evolve and
respond to outside forces over time. Vigilance and proactive local government and
civic associations are keys to maintaining and improving the quality of life for a
community.
Cayuga Heights needs to explore ways in which the overall quality of life and
economic viability of the Village can be stabilized and improved. Continued growth
beyond the Village, competition with other retail areas and an aging population are
challenges that need to be addressed with a creative mix of strategies. These
strategies encompass issue areas such as housing, commercial development and
redevelopment, and transportation.
Objective QL1.1: Enhance the growth management tools available to Village
boards to ensure a high quality of life in the future.
Recommendation 1.1: Review and update as needed Village zoning regulations
to maintain the existing scale, density and character of
development within historic residential neighborhoods in
the older sections of the Village.
Recommendation 1.2: Review and update as needed zoning regulations to
ensure that future commercial, multiple family and
institutional development is designed to protect the
existing historic neighborhoods.
Recommendation 1.3 Create as part of a new zoning ordinance an Institutional
zoning district to address land use issues related to such
educational and other institutional uses.
Recommendation 1.4: Integrate into Village growth management and
construction codes standards that will promote
environmental sustainability in site design and building
construction practices.
Recommendation 1.5: Continue historic role as residential neighborhood
providing housing in support of the region's industrial,
commercial and education services-based economy.
Objective QL1.2: Establish design standards for commercial development
that ensure future development will complement the
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
48
architectural character of the original Community Corner
buildings.
Recommendation 2.1: Establish design standards for parking, lighting,
landscaping, signage, bicycle and pedestrian facilities and
other elements of site design and construction.
Recommendation 2.2: Establish height, setback and bulk standards for new
commercial and residential development in the
Community Corners area that will complement the
original buildings.
Objective QL1.3: Ensure the continued provision of a comprehensive
system of fire, police and emergency services to protect
life and property throughout the community.
Recommendation 3.1: Identify possible synergies in the provision of emergency
management services in partnership with Cayuga Heights
Fire Department, Village Police and associated public and
private agencies, and work cooperatively with these
agencies to promote more comprehensive and efficient
delivery of emergency services.
Objective QL1.4: Provide a wide variety of recreational and health and
fitness opportunities for residents of all ages.
Recommendation 4.1: Ensure that Village residents of all ages and abilities have
convenient access to a comprehensive system of parks,
playgrounds and other recreational and fitness facilities.
Recommendation 4.2: Bring cultural events to the Village through collaborations
with local businesses, educational institutions, the
Tompkins County Arts Council and other public and
private organizations.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
49
Community Character
Goal CC1: Preserve and enhance the rich collection of natural, architectural,
cultural, historic, and scenic resources that make the Village a
distinctive community.
Rationale: The Village was conceived as a "residential park" by one of its founders,
Jared T. Newman. Aspects of that original vision such as meandering streets
following topography and capturing views, its mix of lot sizes and architectural
styles, and picturesque positioning of buildings in a continuous parkland setting,
coupled with a central commercial node to provide neighborhood services and
venues for community gatherings continue to distinguish Cayuga Heights as a
community. This historic pattern of development is a foundation for future
development that emphasizes stewardship of both the built and natural
environment within the Village.
Objective CC1.1: Establish a framework for documenting and preserving
those aspects of the Village of Cayuga Heights that
contribute to its historic character.
Recommendation 1.1: Appoint a Village Historian to research, document, record
and publicize Village history with the intent to educate
Village residents about the history of Cayuga Heights and
provide benchmarks for present policies and future
Village development.
Recommendation 1.2: Establish a Village Landmarks Preservation Committee
that would be charged with developing criteria for
identifying both historic structures and historic landscape
elements, and creating a framework for their
preservation.
Recommendation 1.3: Create a list of village landmarks to include built
structures and key landscape features that are significant
in the history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and
culture of the community and that should be preserved.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
50
Recommendation 1.4: Establish a role for the Planning Board in protecting the
historic resources of the Village through the site plan and
subdivision review processes.
Recommendation 1.5: Develop a program to recognize property owners who
restore or protect historic structures or landscapes.
Recommendation 1.6: Create a network of historical markers to educate
residents and promote a sense of place in the Village.
Objective CC1.2: Better define the Village of Cayuga Heights as a distinct
place within the overall Ithaca urban area.
Recommendation 2.1: Create distinctive gateways at key entrances to the Village
to establish a sense of arrival to the Village.
Recommendation 2.2: Establish design standards for commercial development
that would address streetscapes, parking, lighting,
landscaping, signage and other site design elements that
contribute to the sense of the Village as a distinctive
community.
Recommendation 2.3: Update design standards for fences and walls and
setbacks for these structures that will be consistent with
the historic parkland character of the Village as seen from
the public right of way.
Recommendation 2.4: Investigate incorporating a public square or park into the
Community Corners area through measures such as
reconfiguring streets and reorienting parking.
Recommendation 2.5: Continue historic role as residential community providing
housing in support of the region's industrial, commercial
and education services-based economy.
Ecology and Scenic Assets
Goal ES1: Preserve the Village’s scenic, naturalistic setting while protecting
natural resources and improving recreational opportunities.
Rationale: The Village possesses significant natural resources (e.g. woodlands,
streams, wildlife) that provide its residents with scenic beauty, a daily connection to
nature, important ecosystem services, and recreational opportunities. Ecosystem
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
51
services are defined as those naturally occurring functions of the environment
including but not limited to habitat provision, stormwater reduction, soil erosion
mitigation, air quality improvement and heat island moderation. Due to these many
benefits, the Village’s natural resources should be protected and enhanced where
possible so as to preserve the character and quality of Village life both for current
residents and future generations.
Objective ES1.1: Protect undeveloped open space and environmentally
sensitive areas of the Village.
Recommendation 1.1: Channel future development from environmentally
sensitive undeveloped land to previously developed areas
to reduce resource consumption and preserve
ecosystems.
Recommendation 1.2: Work with Cornell University to develop a framework for
the permanent protection of Palmer Woods and other
University owned natural areas within the Village.
Recommendation 1.3: Create and publish a map showing undeveloped open
space, Unique Natural Areas and other environmentally
sensitive areas of the Village including trails and self-
guided nature walks, and post map to Village website.
Recommendation 1.4: Designate the existing Unique Natural Areas within the
Village as Critical Environmental Areas as provided for
under NY State Environmental Quality Review Act.
Recommendation 1.5 Work with Kendal at Ithaca to develop a framework for
permanently protecting and maintaining public access to the
open spaces adjacent to Renwick Brook.
Objective ES1.2: Preserve water quality by minimizing urban runoff
pollution erosion and sedimentation, and stormwater
discharge.
Recommendation 2.1: Require all new development and re-development of
existing sites to restore to the extent practicable the
historic hydrological function of streams on the site.
Recommendation 2.2: Consider site plan approval for construction on steep
slopes where slope grade exceeds 15%.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
52
Recommendation 2.3: Avoid development of areas that contain wetlands or that
perform wetland ecological functions, including isolated
wetlands.
Recommendation 2.4: Protect and restore riparian buffers by stabilizing and re-
vegetating with native plant communities degraded and
eroded stream channels.
Recommendation 2.5: Rehabilitate lost streams that have been artificially
modified and daylight storm water channels using stable
geomorphological and vegetative methods to restore
ecosystem functions.
Recommendation 2.6: Adopt stream buffer ordinances that will protect riparian
corridors from development impacts.
Objective ES1.3: Preserve ecological diversity and sustainability of natural
resources.
Recommendation 3.1: Develop and implement an active management plan for
the control and management of invasive plants to limit
damage to local ecosystems.
Recommendation 3.2: Preserve plant communities native to the eco-region to
promote regional diversity and provide habitat for native
wildlife.
Recommendation 3.3: Identify and preserve all vegetation designated as special
status by local, state, or federal entities.
Recommendation 3.4: Establish a list of native trees to prioritize for protection
against removal and publicize this list as part of overall
public education program for residents.
Recommendation 3.5: Manage wildlife species that threaten species diversity
and long term landscape ecology.
Recommendation 3.6: Incorporate measures that prioritize the protection of
native trees and consultation with the Village Forester
into the Planning Board site plan review process and
design standards.
Recommendation 3.7: Promote ecological and sustainable approaches to
landscape management such as integrated pest
management, use of native plant species and organic soil
amendments.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
53
Objective ES1.4: Sustainably manage the Village's trees.
Recommendation 4.1: With the assistance of the Village Shade Tree Board create
a management plan for the long term health of Village
street trees and to identify a list of native trees to
prioritize for protection against removal.
Recommendation 4.2: With the assistance of the Village Shade Tree Board,
develop and adopt a Village Shade Tree Ordinance and
organize volunteer street tree plantings.
Recommendation 4.3: Establish a mechanism for the replacement of trees
within the street rights of way that are removed as a
result of public improvements or construction activities
on adjoining properties.
Objective ES1.5: Augment recreational opportunities for Village residents
Recommendation 5.1: Identify opportunities for connectivity of open space and
potential linkages for a system of Village trails.
Recommendation 5.2: Explore opportunities to create additional park space
from Village owned property and property near the
Community Corners area.
Recommendation 5.3: Collaborate with public agencies, Cornell University and
other private groups to create a bicycle and pedestrian
linkage between the Community Corners area and the
University campus.
Recommendation 5.4: Collaborate with the Town of Ithaca to improve and
expand the bicycle and pedestrian path network between
the Community Corners area and Warren Road in the
vicinity of DeWitt Middle School.
Recommendation 5.5: Collaborate with Kendal at Ithaca to create connections to
its existing walking path network, and the Community
Corners area and neighborhoods to the west and south.
Recommendation 5.6: Create and publish a map showing undeveloped open
space and environmentally sensitive areas of the Village
including trails and self-guided nature walks, and post
map to Village website.
Recommendation 5.7: Create a self-guided “nature walk” within the Village.
Recommendation 5.8: Create a network of marked running trails and streets to
encourage the use of less busy streets and promote its use
by pedestrians and joggers.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
54
Economy
Goal EC1: Maintain and enhance the economic vitality of the Village, and in
particular, its retail and commercial center.
Rationale: Community character and the quality of life afforded Village residents
correlate with a tax base adequate to support public services and infrastructure. It
is in the self-interest of Village residents to maintain and enhance the Village as an
economically vibrant and desirable place to live, including the Community Corners
area, its central economic and governmental node. The Community Corners area is
a defining element in the overall character of the community and a valued asset. In
recent decades, however, it has experienced increased competition from new retail
development beyond the Village and lost many of its everyday retail services. Re-
establishment of these lost services and securing new ones would restore its role as
a focus of community activity and improve the overall quality of life for Village
residents.
Objective EC1.1: Improve the business climate for property and business
owners in the Village.
Recommendation 1.1: Establish a regularly scheduled forum to facilitate
communication and encourage collaboration between
Village officials, commercial property and business
owners.
Recommendation 1.2: Review and update as needed Village sign regulations to
enhance the visibility of businesses while protecting the
visual character of the community.
Recommendation 1.3: Organize additional community events in collaboration
with local businesses to draw residents and others to the
Community Corners area and raise its profile as a
community gathering and shopping place.
Recommendation 1.4: Seek out grant funding to leverage private sector
investment in the Community Corners area.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
55
Objective EC 1.2: Facilitate home-based businesses.
Recommendation 2.1: Survey existing small-scale home-based businesses in the
Village to identify issues affecting their viability and the
ways in which the Village can reduce obstacles to small-
scale home-based business ventures.
Recommendation 2.2: Update as needed Village zoning regulations to permit
appropriate small-scale home-based businesses while
maintaining the Village’s residential character.
Objective EC1.3: Re-invigorate the Community Corners area as the
economic and social hub of the Village.
Recommendation 3.1: Develop and implement a master plan in collaboration
with property owners, businesses and resdents for
redevelopment of the Community Corners area as a
dynamic mixed-use commercial and cultural center for
the Village, and a continued defining element for the
community.
Recommendation 3.2: Work with property owners, businesses and tenants to
encourage and incentivize the provision of everyday
neighborhood retail services in the Community Corners
area.
Recommendation 3.3: Investigate use of incentive zoning to encourage
development of mixed-income housing as part of a mixed-
use district at Community Corners.
Recommendation 3.4: Make streetscape improvements including better
sidewalk connections and crosswalks to facilitate and
encourage pedestrian access to the Community Corners
area.
Recommendation 3.5: Tap the resources of the Tompkins County Planning
Department, Tompkins County Area Development, Inc.
and other organizations to assist with the redevelopment
of the Community Corners area.
Objective EC1.4: Enhance the property tax base in the Village and stabilize
or reduce property tax rates for residents and businesses.
Recommendation 3.1: Identify and exploit opportunities to collaborate with the
Town of Ithaca and other municipalities to provide
shared services that are cost effective and beneficial to
the Village.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
56
Recommendation 3.2: Identify possible synergies in the provision of emergency
management services in partnership with Cayuga Heights
Fire Department, Village Police and associated public and
private agencies, and work cooperatively with these
agencies to promote more comprehensive and efficient
delivery of emergency services.
Housing
Goal HO1: Ensure that a variety of high-quality housing options are
available to any person wishing to reside in the community.
Rationale: The vision of its founders distinguished Cayuga Heights as a residential
village. In recent decades, however, the changing nature of the American household,
the encroachment of student housing into historically family neighborhoods, and
the need for a variety of housing types to accommodate older residents desirous of
aging in place, have posed challenges to this vision. Creative thinking is necessary to
provide for changing housing needs while protecting community character and the
high quality of life for Village residents.
Approaches to land use regulation such as mixed use zoning districts and
performance based design standards can further the goal of high-quality housing in
the Village, while protecting the environment.
Objective HO1.1: Update zoning regulations to provide for a wider variety of
housing options to meet the needs of a more diverse
Village population.
Recommendation 1.1: Replace the existing zoning ordinance and the August
2010 amendment with a comprehensive new ordinance
that better protects family residential neighborhoods.
Recommendation 1.2: Ensure that new zoning regulations contain definitions
that are carefully crafted to ensure clarity in the intent of
the regulations and provide adequate protections to
Village property and residents.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
57
Recommendation 1.3 Provide additional opportunities for multi-generational
housing, such as elder cottages and senior apartment
living above garages in single family and two family
zoning districts.
Recommendation 1.4: Develop inclusionary or incentive zoning tools to
encourage developers to provide market rate affordable
housing units in a new mixed-used zoning district.
Objective HO1.2: Develop provisions to permit residential development in
the Community Corners area to attract new homeowners
and renters to invest in the community.
Recommendation 2.1: Replace the Commercial District zoning in the Community
Corners area with a new mixed use zoning district that
can provide for residential and retail commercial
establishments as part of an overall plan for redeveloping
the area.
Recommendation 2.2: Increase the resident population in the Community
Corners area to promote the use of public transit and
other alternatives to the automobile.
Objective HO1.3: Establish a design review process that will encourage
creativity in the design of new and renovated housing to
emphasize in particular efficient use of the Village's
existing infrastructure, and protection of scenic and open
space assets.
Recommendation 3.1: Review zoning and subdivision regulations and update
them to permit more flexibility in subdivision planning
and design, including preservation of open space and
riparian corridors.
Recommendation 3.2: Adopt architectural design guidelines and site design
guidelines to assist design professionals in creating
proposals for new residential developments.
Recommendation 3.3: Incorporate into site plan review standards and
subdivision standards relevant standards that will
promote environmental sustainability such as those
proposed by the International Green Construction Code
and LEED-ND (Neighborhood Development).
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
58
Objective HO1.4: Protect historically single- and two-family residential
neighborhoods from potential adverse impacts of student
housing through the conversion of owner-occupied
housing stock to student housing.
Recommendation 4.1: Replace the existing definitions in the zoning ordinance to
fully define the term “family” and also ensure that existing
district regulations adequately protect the single- and
two-family character of residential neighborhoods.
Recommendation 4.2: Establish a framework for working with Cornell
University, fraternities and sororities, and private
landlords to address existing and potential issues with
student housing developments within the Village.
Objective HO1.5: Expand the stock of moderately priced owner-occupied
housing within the community.
Recommendation 5.1: Establish a Planning Board sub-committee to make
recommendations for how appropriate aspects of the
county’s proposed “Housing Strategy for Tompkins
County” (2007) might be incorporated into the
Comprehensive Plan and Village policies.
Recommendation 5.2: Encourage partnerships between landowners and the
Community Housing Trust run by Ithaca Neighborhood
Housing Services (INHS) to facilitate lowering the initial
cost of housing units for potential buyers.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
59
Transportation
Goal TR1: Maintain a transportation system that meets the needs of both
residents and non-residents, encourages the use of public transit,
creates a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly environment in
the Village, and preserves the character and quality of life in the
Village.
Rationale: Transportation systems typically prioritize cars and vehicle movement.
The Village’s suburban, low density character has encouraged a car dependent
environment. In addition, the Village’s location bordering Cornell University has
resulted in significant pass-through commuter traffic, especially as increased
residential development has occurred to the Village’s north in the Town and Village
of Lansing. Expeditious vehicle movement for residents and non-residents should
continue to be provided, but greater attention should be given as well to reducing
the number of vehicles on Village streets by encouraging the use of public transit
and creating a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly environment.
Objective TR1.1: Maintain an effective and efficient street network without
compromising Village character and walkability.
Recommendation 1.1: Maintain a maximum of one (1) travel lane in each
direction with the exception of turn-lanes at major
intersections.
Recommendation 1.2: Review and update as necessary Village street use
regulations in order to adequately control overweight
truck traffic and protect Village streets from damage,
including establishing weight restrictions and standard
road use and security agreement.
Recommendation 1.3: Review and upgrade as needed signage on Village streets
and make additional improvements to improve traffic
flow along arteries within the Village (e.g. Triphammer,
Hanshaw, Pleasant Grove, and Cayuga Heights Roads).
Recommendation 1.4: Ensure any proposal for new development within the
Village addresses impacts to the street network and
traffic flow.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
60
Recommendation 1.5: Maintain the efficiency and attractiveness of Village
streets by establishing better controls on parking in front
yard areas and within Village street rights of way.
Objective TR1.2: Maintain and upgrade Village streets as necessary.
Recommendation 2.1: Review the current street maintenance schedule and
assess whether it sufficiently addresses resident and non-
resident needs.
Objective TR1.3: Encourage Public Transit Use.
Recommendation 3.1: Continue working with TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated
Area Transit) to build bus shelters and install signage to
identify bus stops more clearly.
Objective TR1.4: Reduce conflicts between TCAT and Village residents.
Recommendation 4.1: Establish a formal channel for communication with TCAT
that provides for consultation with the Village prior to
service changes.
Objective TR1.5: Facilitate safe bicycle travel on Village streets.
Recommendation 5.1: Develop a strategic plan for bikeways in the Village that
would integrate connections to existing bikeway
networks in surrounding areas, and would incorporate
existing resources such as the Ithaca/Tompkins County
Transportation Council plan.
Recommendation 5.2: Create bicycle lanes where feasible on arterial Village
streets and where bicycle lanes are not feasible install
signage and pavement markings as appropriate to alert
motorists of the presence of bicycle traffic.
Recommendation 5.3: Include redesign of arterial Village streets to
accommodate bicycle lanes as part of regular street repair
and maintenance process.
Recommendation 5.4: Install covered bicycle storage racks at Marcham Hall and
at major intersections in the Village along TCAT bus
routes.
Recommendation 5.5: Incorporate relevant provisions of the International
Green Construction Code and LEED-ND related to bicycle
facilities into Village site plan approval criteria.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
61
Objective TR1.6: Maintain, expand, and improve the sidewalk network in
the Village.
Recommendation 6.1: Develop and implement a strategic plan for Village
sidewalks including identifying and addressing gaps in
the existing sidewalk network and ensuring the safety of
Village pedestrians, especially residents of the Kendal at
Ithaca retirement community and children walking to
Cayuga Heights Elementary School, Boynton Middle
School and Ithaca High School.
Recommendation 6.2: Conduct a “walkability audit” with Village residents and
commercial property owners to identify and prioritize
pedestrian improvements.
Recommendation 6.3: Ensure in site plan review that any new site development
prioritizes pedestrian connections to the existing Village
sidewalk network and provides safe pedestrian
circulation within the developed site.
Recommendation 6.4: Consider traffic calming measures on arterial streets such
as raised intersections or increased street tree plantings
to lower traffic speeds and increase pedestrian safety.
Recommendation 6.5: Coordinate sidewalk repair with regularly scheduled
street repair and maintenance.
Recommendation 6.6: Consider widening existing sidewalks where space
permits.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
62
Public Services and Utilities
Goal PS1: Maintain and improve as necessary a system of services and
supporting infrastructure that meets the needs of the residents
in the Village, improves energy efficiency in Village operations
and facilities, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Rationale: Public service and utility systems are essential to maintaining the daily
operations of the Village and the quality of life its residents enjoy. Efficient and
economical provision of high quality services form the basis for, and make possible,
other Village enhancements. Today however the provision of public services and
utilities must take into consideration more than pipes, bricks and mortar, public
safety and other services. According to the Tompkins County 2020 Energy Strategy,
local governments can also play an important role in efforts to reduce our impact on
climate. The adoption of improved energy efficiency measures for building facilities
as well as public sector vehicle fleet emissions reduction improvements have the
potential to reduce community greenhouse gas emissions.
Objective PS1.1: Ensure that existing public infrastructure is maintained
and upgraded as necessary.
Recommendation 1.1: Establish and update strategic plans for all utility systems,
beginning with base plan mapping and capacity
benchmarks, and planning for obsolescence replacement.
Recommendation 1.2: Include utility appraisal in conjunction with planned
street improvements.
Recommendation 1.3: Ensure any new development within the Village
addresses impacts to the public infrastructure.
Recommendation 1.4: Seek opportunities to partner with adjacent
municipalities and institutions for funding contiguous
infrastructure projects.
Recommendation 1.5: Seek opportunities to partner with businesses and
utilities to identify and enact sustainable practices.
Recommendation 1.6: Plan for relocation and burial of overhead line utilities
with development of the Business District to reduce
“visual clutter.”
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
63
Recommendation 1.7: Adopt policies for better control of street lighting to
reduce the impacts of street light glare and light trespass
on adjoining properties and reduce light haze that washes
out the night sky.
Objective PS1.2: Maintain and upgrade Village fire protection/prevention
service and police protection as necessary.
Recommendation 2.1: Make first aid equipment (defibrillators) available in
Village public buildings and select Village vehicles.
Provide training for Village employees.
Recommendation 2.2: Update and publicize the Village’s Emergency
Preparedness Plan.
Objective PS1.3: Maintain and upgrade Village trash and recycling services
as necessary.
Recommendation 3.1: Partner with County entities to promote increased
sustainability measures.
Objective PS1.4: Maintain and upgrade Village government service as
necessary.
Recommendation 4.1: Expand and renovate Marcham Hall to ensure adequate
space, accessibility for all Village residents and the
efficient function of Village agencies.
Recommendation 4.2: Regularly assess approaches to ensuring long term
success/maintenance/continuity of fire protection in the
Village.
Recommendation 4.3: Regularly review the various governance procedures
utilized by Village boards and committees to ensure
transparency and compliance with State laws.
Recommendation 4.4: Contract with the Town of Ithaca or private planning
consultant to provide professional planning services to
the Village and its residents.
Recommendation 4.5: Continue to exploit opportunities to collaborate with the
Town of Ithaca and other municipalities to provide
shared services that are cost effective and beneficial to
the Village.
Recommendation 4.6: Establish formal communication links with Cornell
University, the Town of Ithaca, the City of Ithaca, and the
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
64
Village of Lansing planning departments for proactive
development discussions.
Recommendation 4.7: Ensure that Village records management and digitizing of
Village documents promote both preservation of
important documents and enhance public access to public
records.
Objective PS1.5: Maintain the opportunity for high quality, close to home
elementary school education for Village families.
Recommendation 5.1: Establish ongoing dialogue with Ithaca City School
District (ICSD) to assess needs of Cayuga Heights
Elementary School (CHES).
Recommendation 5.2: Ensure safe access to CHES by Village residents and non-
residents.
Objective PS1.6: Develop a program to identify and carry out energy
efficiency monitoring and making improvements as
practicable in relation to Village-owned building facilities
and vehicles.
Recommendation 6.1: Adopt a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from
Village facilities and operations by 20% by 2020, and by
80% by 2050.
Recommendation 6.2: Evaluate new investments in facilities, infrastructure and
equipment for their impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
Objective PS1.7: Use Marcham Hall as a model for sustainable practices
Recommendation 7.1: Incorporate sustainable building design and site design
features including sustainable site plan and landscape
features, parking lots and stormwater management
systems in the re-development of Marcham Hall so that it
may serve as a model of sustainability for the rest of the
Village.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
65
Part 3. Plan Implementation Matrix
The goals objectives and recommendations set forth in Part 2 lay out an
ambitious action agenda for the Village of Cayuga Heights. Their implementation
will require a coordinated effort on the part of the various Village boards and
committees, and Village departments. In some cases taking action will require
collaboration with Tompkins County, adjacent municipalities or private non-
governmental agencies.
In all cases the ability of the Village to carry out the Comprehensive Plan will
be dependent upon the availability of required resources. These resources include
fiscal resources, staff resources, and the time available to the numerous elected and
appointed officials who are committed to provide high quality, efficient government
services to Village residents. This Plan recognizes that those resources are finite,
and years, even decades, will be required to achieve some objectives. Moreover a
number of recommendations will require multiple actions and collaborations that
will extend over a number of years before they are completely implemented.
Prioritizing strategies and actions is thus critical to successful plan
implementation. In the following matrix the objectives set forth in Part 2 are listed.
Each objective is then catalogued as:
1. Short Term – objective which should be achieved within the next 3 years;
2. Medium Term – objective which should be achieved within the next 3to 7
years;
3. Long Term – objective which should be achieved, but which is less of a
priority or which is of a complexity or scale that it is expected to take 7 or
more years to achieve;
4. Ongoing – and initiative or policy which should be implemented as soon as
practicable, but which will be implemented continuously over the course of
the plan.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
66
Comprehensive Plan Implementation Matrix
(Short Term: 0-3 years; Medium Term: 3-7 years; Long Term: 7+ years)
Objective Strategy or Action
Lead
Responsibility Timeframe
Objective QL1.1 Enhance the growth management tools available to Village
boards to ensure a high quality of life in the future.
Planning Board Short Term
Objective QL1.2
Establish architectural and site planning and design
standards for commercial development that ensure future
development will complement the architectural character
of original Community Corners buildings.
Planning Board Short Term
Objective QL1.3
Ensure the provision of a comprehensive system of fire,
police and emergency services to protect life and property
throughout the community. Board of
Trustees On Going
Objective QL1.4 Provide a wide variety of recreational and health and
fitness opportunities for residents of all ages. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective CC1.1
Establish a framework for documenting and preserving
those aspects of the Village of Cayuga Heights that
contribute to its historic character. Board of
Trustees
Short
Term
Objective CC1.2 Better define the Village of Cayuga Heights as a distinct
place within the overall Ithaca urban area. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective ES1.1 Protect undeveloped open space and environmentally
sensitive areas of the Village.
Planning Board Ongoing
Objective ES1.2
Preserve water quality by minimizing urban runoff
pollution erosion and sedimentation, and stormwater
discharge. Public Works
Committee Ongoing
Objective ES1.3 Preserve ecological diversity and sustainability of natural
resources. Planning Board Ongoing
Objective ES1.4 Sustainably manage the Village's trees. Shade Tree
Board Ongoing
Objective ES1.5 Augment recreational opportunities for Village residents.
Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective EC1.1 Improve the business climate for property and business
owners in the Village.
Board of
Trustees Short Term
Objective EC 1.2 Facilitate home-based businesses. Planning Board Short Term
Objective EC1.3 Re-invigorate the Community Corners area as the
economic and social hub of the Village. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective EC1.4 Enhance the property tax base in the Village and stabilize
or reduce property tax rates for residents and businesses.
Board of
Trustees Ongoing
Objective HO1.1 Update zoning regulations to provide for a wider variety of
housing options to meet the needs of a more diverse
Village population. Planning Board Short Term
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
67
Comprehensive Plan Implementation Matrix
(Short Term: 0-3 years; Medium Term: 3-7 years; Long Term: 7+ years)
Objective Strategy or Action
Lead
Responsibility Timeframe
Objective HO1.2 Develop provisions to permit residential development in
the Community Corners area to attract new homeowners
and renters to invest in the community. Planning Board Short Term
Objective HO1.3
Establish a design review process that will encourage
creativity in the design of new and renovated housing to
emphasize efficient use of existing infrastructure, and
protection of scenic and open space assets. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective HO1.4
Protect historically single- and two-family residential
neighborhoods from potential adverse impacts of student
housing through the conversion of owner-occupied
housing stock to student housing.
Board of
Trustees Short Term
Objective HO1.5 Expand the stock of moderately priced owner-occupied
housing within the community.
Board of
Trustees
Medium
Term
Objective TR1.1 Maintain an effective and efficient street network without
compromising Village character and walkability.
Public Works
Department
Medium
Term
Objective TR1.2
Maintain and upgrade Village streets as necessary.
Public Works
Department Ongoing
Objective TR1.3 Encourage Public Transit Use.
Board of
Trustees
Medium
Term
Objective TR1.4 Reduce conflicts between TCAT and Village residents.
Board of
Trustees Short Term
Objective TR1.5 Facilitate safe bicycle travel on Village streets. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective TR1.6 Maintain, expand, and improve the sidewalk network in
the Village. Planning Board
Medium
Term
Objective PS1.1 Ensure that existing public infrastructure is maintained
and upgraded as necessary.
Public Works
Department Ongoing
Objective PS1.2 Maintain and upgrade Village fire protection/prevention
service and police protection as necessary.
Board of
Trustees Ongoing
Objective PS1.3 Maintain and upgrade Village trash and recycling services
as necessary.
Public Works
Department Ongoing
Objective PS1.4 Maintain and upgrade Village government service as
necessary.
Board of
Trustees Ongoing
Objective PS1.5 Maintain the opportunity for high quality, close to home
elementary school education for Village families.
Board of
Trustees Ongoing
Objective PS1.6 Develop a program to identify and carry out energy
efficiency monitoring and improvements as practicable in
relation to Village-owned building facilities and vehicles.
Board of
Trustees Ongoing
Objective PS1.7 Use Marcham Hall as a model for sustainable practices. Board of
Trustees Short Term
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
68
Part 4. Plan Implementation Details
Many of the goals, objectives and recommendations in Part 2 are
straightforward. A number of them, however, will involve multiple actions and
engage multiple boards and Village residents, property owners and other entities in
the implementation process. This section outlines in further detail recommended
actions and implementation strategies for attaining the objectives of the previous
section.
They are organized under the same headings as Part 2: Quality of Life;
Community Character; Ecology and Scenic Assets; Housing; Economy;
Transportation and Public Services and Utilities.
Quality of Life
Implementation Strategy 1.1: Land Use Regulations (Obj. QL1.1)
The Village should establish a task force of Village officials and residents for
the purpose of reviewing existing zoning regulations and other growth management
tools. The task force approach is recommended for the development of new zoning
and other growth management tools because: 1) it will bring together members of
the Village bodies that will be key to administering the regulations; 2) bring
residents into the process early on; and 3) reduce the burden on any one board or
staff member in overseeing the process.
This task force could be charged by the Board of Trustees with responsibility for
reviewing the Village zoning regulations and making recommendations to the Board
of Trustees for amendments, including the establishment of new zoning districts
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
69
and new zoning map, specific standards for individual zoning districts and
categories of land uses.
Key objectives of the zoning regulations and architectural and site planning
and design standards to be developed by the task force are: (1) minimizing any
negative environmental impacts of future development in the Village and (2)
protection of the historic character of older residential neighborhoods and the
Community Corners area as the Village evolves in the coming decades.
Other aspects of zoning that should be addressed are the dimensional
requirements that govern building height, yard setbacks and building lot coverage.
Building height and how it may be defined has been problematic in the past.
Recommended changes to the existing zoning regulations that the task force
should carefully consider are:
1. Creation of a new Institutional zoning district that would apply specific
controls to student housing such as dormitories, fraternities, and sororities,
covering in particular the design and location of parking, and provisions for
buffering between such housing and single-family housing. This Institutional
district would cover certain areas currently within the existing Multiple
Family zoning district (see Map 3.1). This new Institutional district would
also permit educational institution uses such as the Africana Research
Center, churches, and public and private schools.
2. Creation of a Mixed Use district to replace the existing Commercial district in
the area that includes the Corners Community and Village Green shopping
centers and surrounding areas. This would facilitate redevelopment of the
area as a mixed use medium density residential and commercial area. The
new district ordinance would include detailed building height and bulk
regulations designed to encourage living units above and interspersed with
commercial space. It would also include parking guidelines and standards
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
70
designed to encourage greater levels of pedestrian activity and attractive
space for social interaction and community events.
3. Creation of a Conservation Overlay district that would provide additional
controls on development of steep slopes, along stream corridors, within
wooded areas, on sites adjacent to wetland areas and on properties
contained within and bordering UNAs.
4. Modifications to the existing Residence district regulations to limit intrusion
of student housing, but also, through special approval review process, allow
other uses traditionally found in residential areas such as churches, assisted
living facilities, nursing homes, etc. Include in the special approval process
specific design standards for parking, landscaping and buffering from
adjacent family homes. Bed and breakfast establishments operated by the
resident of the premises may also be an appropriate use, subject to special
approval and design standards.
5. Modifications to the existing Multiple Housing district ordinance to better
control parking area size, design and location, increase permitted building lot
coverage from 12% to 30%, and provide site design and buffering standards
protecting adjacent single- and two-family homes. Increasing lot coverage as
proposed could provide for additional density on existing sites, while still
maintaining adequate buffer areas, green space for tenants and a suburban
character.
6. Design standards for commercial development that would address buildings,
streetscapes, parking, lighting, landscaping, signage and other elements that
contribute to the sense of the Village as a distinctive community.
7. Zoning definitions that are carefully crafted to ensure clarity in the intent of
the regulations and provide adequate protections to Village property and
residents.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
71
8. Incorporate language codifying the longstanding policy of not promoting
industrial development within the boundaries of the Village but instead
maintain the Village's historic role in the regional economy.
Map 3.1 - Future Land Use Map illustrates the general form of the proposed
new zoning districts outlined above. The bulk of the land within the Village will
remain within the existing Residence zoning district. The proposed districts would
cover the following areas:
1. Mixed Use. Approximately 20 acres encompassing the Corners Community
and Village Green shopping centers and properties along the north side of
Upland Road and the west side of Pleasant Grove Road.
2. Institutional. Approximately 70 acres encompassing lands currently
occupied by Cornell University buildings and other facilities (excluding
Palmer Woods and adjacent meadow lands which would remain in the
existing Residence zoning district), fraternities and sororities, and the First
Congregational Church in the southern portions of the Village.
3. Multiple Housing. Approximately 17 acres that encompass the existing
Multiple Residence district within the Village. The district would include the
existing apartments at the southern edge of the Community Corners area.
They would serve as a transition zone between the proposed Mixed Use
district and the existing Residence zoning district to the south and west.
Implementation Strategy 1.2: Recreation (Obj. QL1.4)
The Village of Cayuga Heights should partner with the Town of Ithaca,
the Village of Lansing, the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community, and Cornell
University to assure continued convenient access to parks, playgrounds and other
recreational facilities. Although space within the Village limits opportunities for the
development of new parks, there are nearby park and recreational facilities in the
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
72
Village of Lansing and adjacent areas of the Town of Ithaca. This approach can
enable the Village to develop and maintain desired facilities in a cost effective and
efficient manner.
The redevelopment of the Community Corners area into a mixed use
neighborhood would also afford the opportunity to develop a new public space at
the Village’s center. This public space could provide valuable green space and also
function as a gathering spot for the community, much in the manner of a New
England green or commons. It might offer additionally a small play area for
children and a venue for concerts and other community gatherings and cultural
events. This area could provide adequate room for a gathering of 400 to 500
residents for a concert or other event in an area safely removed from streets and
conflicting surrounding uses.
The Village should also work with Kendal at Ithaca to investigate ways in
which all or part of its property adjacent to Renwick Brook can be permanently
protected as public open space and suitable uses for that space.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
74
Community Character
Implementation Strategy 2.1: Historic Preservation (Obj. CC1.1)
The preservation of Jared Newman’s historic "residential park" concept with
its rich composition of natural, architectural, cultural, historic, and scenic resources
will require a number of implementation measures. The Village should take steps in
the near future to ensure that Newman’s legacy is protected in the coming decades,
including:
1. Establish a Village Landmarks Preservation Committee. This committee would
be charged with developing criteria for identifying both historic structures and
historic landscape elements, and creating a framework for their preservation.
The committee can tap local resources such as Historic Ithaca and Tompkins
County as well as the New York State Historic Preservation Office in its work. It
can also advise the Planning Board on issues pertaining to historic structures or
spaces within the Village.
2. Create a list of Village landmarks or districts to include built structures and key
landscape features. Criteria for such designation could include structures or
landscapes that are significant in the history, architecture, archeology,
engineering, and culture of the community. The Village would have the option
of designating such landmarks and districts in order to highlight their
significance. It can also consider the creation of a landmarks preservation
ordinance that could empower the Village to review alterations to historic
structures. This would be similar to the practice in the City of Ithaca and other
cities which take a more active role in protecting historic resources.
3. Expand the number of historic markers that would highlight the rich history and
notable figures that have lived in the Village. There are a number of homes of
early farmers, as well as homes of internationally known people such as Hans
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
75
Bethe within the Village. Another topic of such markers would be the origins of
place names, such as Sunset Park, Renwick or The Parkway. The historic
marker installed by the Town of Ithaca in front of Marcham Hall in 1996 would
be a template for this expanded program to educate Village residents about
their community’s history.
Ecology and Scenic Assets
Implementation Strategy 3.1: Significant Open Space (Obj. ES1.1)
Enhanced zoning regulations are required to better protect the significant
natural resources that provide Village residents with scenic beauty, a daily
connection to nature, important ecosystem services, and recreational opportunities.
To protect this as a legacy for future generations, the Village should take
steps to channel future development from environmentally sensitive undeveloped
lands, such as areas shown on Map 1.2, wherever possible and to better control
activities that may occur in such areas in the future.
Two key actions in implementing a protection strategy are:
1. Creation of a Conservation Overlay district that would provide additional
controls on development of steep slopes, along stream corridors, within
wooded areas, adjacent to wetland areas and on properties bordering Unique
Natural Areas (UNAs). Such controls should include minimum setbacks from
stream centerlines and, where present, ravine edges, limits on clearing and
cutting of vegetation on steep slope areas, and limits on lot coverage and
disturbance. A site plan approval process for new construction in such areas
would provide the Village the opportunity to utilize the State Environmental
Quality Review (SEQR) process to assess potential environmental impacts of
such activity.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
76
2. The Village, in collaboration with Cornell University, should establish
measures to permanently protect from development the University owned
Palmer Woods and Newman Tract natural areas. These two areas have been
recognized for their significance as open space and ecological resources
through designation as Tompkins County Unique Natural Areas and through
their incorporation into the Cornell Plantations Natural Areas system. These
designations, however, do not provide adequate protection from development
or other activities that may damage or destroy their ecological integrity. If the
two areas are not already protected through such instruments, one potential
measure would be for the Village of Cayuga Heights to acquire conservation
easements from Cornell University, through purchase or by donation.
Education is another effective means of protecting critical open space assets
within the Village. To better inform residents of the rich natural heritage in Cayuga
Heights, the Village should develop informational materials for residents as well as
prospective residents. These could be in the form of:
1. A map showing undeveloped open space and Unique Natural Areas and other
environmentally sensitive areas of the Village including trails and self-guided
nature walks. The map could be posted to the Village website and included
in a newsletter.
2. A brochure that would include both map and narrative that could be
available in Marcham Hall and other locations, including local real estate
offices, for distribution to prospective new residents.
Implementation Strategy 3.2: Stormwater Management (Obj. ES1.2)
Over the course of its development, the various streams in the Village have
been altered and water quality negatively affected. In the coming years the Village
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
77
should take steps to 1) reduce the impacts of new development on water quality and
2) begin efforts to restore water quality. Toward this end, the Village should enact
site plan design standards that would require site designs that maintain the historic
hydrological functions of the site.
This would entail controlling stormwater runoff and also treatment of
stormwater runoff for urban stormwater pollutants. New approaches to
stormwater management that emphasize retention of runoff onsite and infiltration
into the ground, such as bioswales and pervious pavements, should also be
emphasized in site design.
Establishing this type of guideline for use by the Planning Board will assist
the members of the board in evaluating proposed site designs. Such guidelines
should enable the members without specific expertise in such issues to assess
proposed stormwater management measures for smaller scale projects.
In addition to standards for site design, the Village should also where feasible
integrate bioswales and other stormwater management and treatment practices in
the design of Village streets.
The Village should publicize such practices and encourage homeowners to
consider approaches such as bioswales, rain gardens, and pervious driveway
pavements at their residences.
Implementation Strategy 3.3: Riparian Resources (Obj. ES1.2)
The Village should take additional steps to protect riparian resources. These
include:
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
78
1. Completion of an inventory and mapping of wetland areas within the Village,
using the criteria established by the federal government in the late 1980s1.
These criteria provide a consistent framework for identifying wetland areas,
including small areas of the type that can be found in the Village. These
wetland areas and a surrounding buffer area can then be included within the
Conservation Overlay zone proposed in 1.1 above.
2. In collaboration with the Soil and Water Conservation District and Village
landowners, identify degraded and eroded stream channels and drainage
swales and restore riparian buffers by stabilizing and re-vegetating with
native plant communities. This would reduce erosion and sedimentation
into local streams and ultimately Cayuga Lake.
3. In collaboration with the Soil and Water Conservation District, identify
streams within the Village that have been channelized or buried for long
stretches in culvert pipes. Where feasible such streams should be day-
lighted and the streambeds rehabilitated using stable geomorphological and
vegetative methods to restore ecosystem functions.
Implementation Strategy 3.3: Ecological Diversity (Obj. ES1.3)
The natural ecology of Cayuga Heights has been disrupted over the course of
several decades. There are measures, however, that the Village should implement to
protect existing assets and restore some balance to the ecology. The Village
Forester can take a leadership role in a number of strategies, including:
1. Identifying and preserving plant communities native to the eco-region, and
vegetation designated as special status by local, state, or federal entities. A
number of native tree species are included in this category. Because the
1 The 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and 1989 Federal Manual for Identifying and
Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands established specific criteria for identifying wetlands.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
79
Village is essentially built out, this process is viewed as being primarily one
of identifying such species, and educating Village residents of their
importance and the desirability of preserving them.
2. Develop educational materials that list desirable native plant species and
encourage Village residents to utilize such plants in their landscaping. This
can be done in collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension. The
information could be available in a number of forms, including a brochure
available at Marcham Hall and on the Village website.
3. Incorporate into the Planning Board site plan review process design
standards and measures that prioritize the protection of native trees. The
site plan review process can be an effective tool in the protection of
significant native vegetation on private properties within the Village. The
Planning Board, in consultation with the Village Forester, should establish
specific standards to protect such trees and incorporate them into the Zoning
Code. These standards would include basic requirements such as
incorporation of such trees into the site design and minimum design
standards such as setbacks from curbs and paved areas and other measures
to protect the root structure and canopy of the trees.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
80
Implementation Strategy 3.4: Street Trees (Obj. ES1.4)
The Village should charge the Shade Tree Board with creating and
implementing a street tree management plan for the long term health of the trees
within Village street right-of-ways and other Village properties. It would also
develop and maintain a list of native trees within the public right-of-ways to
prioritize for protection against removal.
The proposed Village Shade Tree Board should also establish a mechanism
for the replacement of trees within the street right-of-ways removed as a result of
public improvements or construction activities on adjoining properties.
Economy
Implementation Strategy 4.1: Economic Development Partnership
(Obj. EC1.1)
The Village needs to take action in the coming years to maintain and enhance
the Community Corners area as a desirable, economically vibrant retail and
government center. The Community Corners area is a defining element in the
overall character of the community and a valued asset, but increased competition
from new retail development beyond the Village has eroded its traditional place in
the fabric of Village life.
The Village should establish a joint public - private economic development
partnership. This non-governmental Economic Development Council could be
modeled along the lines of the Downtown Ithaca Business Alliance. Its mission
would be to promote the Community Corners area and coordinate the efforts of
businesses in the Village to redevelop and revitalize the retail sector there.
In carrying out its mission the new organization would:
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
81
1. Advise the Village Board of Trustees and other bodies on matters pertaining
to the Community Corners area business community and on issues Village
businesses face in their daily operations.
2. Prepare a strategic plan for the revitalization of the retail sector, including a
plan to elevate the profile of the Community Corners area in the greater
Ithaca region as a retail center.
3. Organize community events to draw residents and others to the Community
Corners area and raise its profile as a community gathering and shopping
place.
4. Seek out public and private grant funding to leverage the private sector
investment in the Community Corners area.
To provide support for the new economic development organization the
Village should provide funding for a part-time director of the Economic
Development Council. While this position would entail responsibility for the day-to-
day operation of the organization. it would not necessarily become a new Village
staff position since such services could be contracted out to an established economic
development organization in Ithaca or Tompkins County.
Implementation Strategy 4.2: Area Plan for Community Corners
(Obj. EC1.3)
The Village, in collaboration with the Economic Development Council,
property owners and individual businesses, should develop and implement a new
master plan for the redevelopment of the Community Corners area as a dynamic
mixed-use commercial and cultural center for the Village. This area plan would
include a vision for transforming the area and detailed recommendations for
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
82
implementation of the plan. It would also align well with Tompkins County's
proposed nodal development strategy,
Integral to any master plan for the area would be identification and
preservation of the original buildings and landscape that constitute the area's
historic identity, while creating a new Village center comprised of a mix of retail,
service and residential uses.
The process of developing a master plan for the Community Corners area
should be a dynamic, interactive process that would include a broad range of
stakeholders. These include property and business owners in the designated area,
Village officials, and members of the general public. A team of experts in planning,
design and community participation should be assembled to guide the community
in its efforts to create this new future for the Community Corners area.
Implementation Strategy 4.3: Home-Based Businesses (Obj. EC1.2)
Home-based businesses are a growing economic sector both nationwide and
in Cayuga Heights. The Village should facilitate home-based businesses that are
compatible with the character of its neighborhoods. To further this objective the
Village should:
1. Survey existing small-scale home-based businesses in the Village to identify
issues affecting their viability and the means by which the Village can reduce
obstacles to small-scale home-based business ventures.
2. Update as needed Village zoning regulations to permit appropriate small-
scale home-based businesses while still maintaining the Village’s residential
character.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
83
Housing
Implementation Strategy 5.1: Expand Housing Options (Obj. HO1.1,
Obj. HO1.2)
The Village should address the changing nature of the American household
and the need for a variety of housing types. It can do so by implementing a number
of measures in the coming years.
Multi-generational housing such as elder cottages and senior accessory
apartments in Residence zoning districts can provide the opportunity for older
Village residents to age in place, and for others who may have special needs. The
concept can also enable Village residents to provide housing for parents and other
older relatives. The Village should ensure that such opportunities exist in a new
zoning ordinance.
By slightly adjusting residential density upwards, backed by inclusionary or
incentive zoning in the proposed mixed use zoning district, developers could be
encouraged to provide not only market rate units, but below market rate affordable
housing. The units should be owner-occupied, if possible.
The Village should work with for-profit developers, not-for-profits such as
Better Housing for Tompkins County, Tompkins County, and Cornell University to
develop lower cost housing. Tompkins County has a Community Housing Trust fund
that could be a possible source of funding for this endeavor.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
84
Implementation Strategy 5.2: Creative Residential Development
(Obj. HO1.3)
The Village should review and, where necessary, revise its existing
subdivision regulations to permit more flexibility in subdivision planning and
design. The use of cluster subdivision strategies in new development can achieve a
number of planning objectives, including preservation of open space, protection of
riparian corridors, expanding the stock of affordable housing.
In addition to flexibility in subdivision design, the Village should enact a set
of architectural design and site design criteria for new cluster-type residential
developments. Besides addressing aesthetic and public safety considerations, these
design criteria might also incorporate relevant provisions of the International Green
Construction Code and LEED-ND into residential site plan and subdivision standards.
Transportation
Implementation Strategy 6.1: Street Infrastructure (Obj. TR1.1)
The Village has not adopted the practice of widening streets in response to
increased traffic. In addition, the original terrain-following alignments of Village
streets have remained intact. By maintaining a maximum of one travel lane in each
direction and limiting investments in increased capacity to adding turn lanes at key
intersections, the Village has been able to balance the efficient movement of
vehicular traffic with preserving community character.
This strategy should be continued in the coming years. As part of this
strategy, the Village should also continue to implement traffic flow improvements
along arteries such as Triphammer, Hanshaw, Pleasant Grove, and Cayuga Heights
Roads. The objective of any such improvements should be to maintain a safe flow of
traffic.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
85
The Village should couple any proposed traffic improvements with traffic
calming measures on arterial streets, such as raised intersections and increased
street tree plantings, to lower traffic speeds and increase pedestrian safety.
Implementation Strategy 6.2: Public Transit (Obj. TR1.3, Obj.
TR1.4)
Providing safe, comfortable and conveniently located bus shelters is a critical
component in increasing public transit ridership. The Village should collaborate
with TCAT to develop and implement a plan for placing additional bus shelters at
key locations along all bus routes. In locations where bus shelters may not be
warranted, safe waiting areas with distinctive signage should be constructed.
The Village should also establish a formal channel for communication with
the TCAT organization. Such arrangement would provide for consultation with
Village officials and improved communication between TCAT and Village residents.
Implementation Strategy 6.3: Bicycle Transportation (Obj. TR 1.5)
Homes and businesses throughout the Village are located in relatively close
proximity to the Community Corners area, Cornell University and other activity
nodes. Many Village residences are within ten minutes of these and other
destinations making bicycle use a viable alternative to the automobile.
To more effectively exploit the bicycle as a transportation alternative, the
Village should develop a strategic plan for promoting bicycle use. Such a plan would:
1. Identify appropriate on-street and off-street routes for bicycles that would
provide direct connections to major activity nodes such as Cornell University,
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
86
the Kendal at Ithaca retirement community, Cayuga Heights Elementary
School, and the Village of Lansing shopping district.
2. Incorporate whenever possible into the identification of bicycle routes
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials design
standards governing gradients, sight distance and curve alignment.
3. Develop a uniform system of signs to identify bicycle routes and alert drivers
to increased bicycle presence on Village streets.
4. Develop design standards for site plan approval that include covered bicycle
parking in convenient locations within developments.
5. Ensure that the proposed Village bicycle route network is integrated into the
regional network of bicycle routes.
6. Develop a capital improvement program that will include redesign of arterial
Village streets to accommodate dedicated bicycle lanes as part of regular
street repair and maintenance process.
Implementation Strategy 6.4: Pedestrian Infrastructure
(Obj. TR1.6)
Creating a more pedestrian friendly environment is a key to reducing
reliance on the automobile and creating a more sustainable Cayuga Heights. As a
first step, the Village should develop and implement a strategic plan for sidewalks.
This initiative would:
1. Identify and address gaps in the existing sidewalk network.
2. Develop a plan for a network of walkways that provide direct connections to
major activity nodes such as Cornell University, the Kendal at Ithaca
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
87
retirement community, Cayuga Heights Elementary School, Boynton Middle
School, Ithaca High School, and the Village of Lansing shopping district.
3. Create specifications for Village walkways that address issues such as width,
pavement design, accessibility for the physically impaired, buffering between
pedestrian and vehicular traffic, summer shade, and maintenance.
4. Develop a capital improvement plan to prioritize and fund proposed
pedestrian improvements.
Public Services and Utilities
Implementation Strategy 7.1: Utility Infrastructure (Obj. PS1.1)
The continued efficient and economical provision of high quality services
provides the basis for and makes possible other Village enhancements. To ensure
this, the Village should establish and update strategic plans for all utility systems,
beginning with base plan mapping and capacity benchmarks, and planning for
obsolescence replacement. This process should:
1. Identify opportunities to partner with adjacent municipalities and
institutions for funding joint and mutually beneficial infrastructure projects.
2. Identify opportunities to partner with businesses and utilities to pursue
sustainable practices. One such practice would be a program in collaboration
with New York State Electric and Gas Corporation to replace existing street
lights with newer technology such as solar powered LED lighting. Such
lighting technology would increase energy efficiency and reduce the impacts
of street light glare and light trespass on adjoining properties and reduce
light haze that washes out the night sky.
Village of Cayuga Heights Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
November 15, 2012
88
3. As part of an overall plan for a mixed-use district for the Community Corners
area, plan for relocation and burial of overhead utility lines.
Implementation Strategy 7.2: Governmental Services (Obj. PS1.2,
Obj. PS1.3, Obj. PS1.4)
As the Village of Cayuga Heights evolves in the coming years, it should
consistently review its provision of services to Village residents and be vigilant in
identifying opportunities to streamline and improve the delivery of services.
Specific steps that the Village should take in the near future include:
1. Establishing formal communication links with Cornell University, the Town
of Ithaca, the City of Ithaca, and the Village of Lansing to better coordinate
municipal planning and development decisions.
2. Consider working with the Town of Ithaca or a private planning consultant to
provide professional planning services to the Village and its residents. The
availability of professional planning expertise on a continuous basis can
ensure that this plan can be implemented in an effective, efficient and
comprehensive manner in the coming years.
3. Establishing an ongoing dialogue with Ithaca City School District (ICSD) to
assess the needs of Cayuga Heights Elementary School and provide safe
access to the school.