ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – A major development in Ithaca is getting a boost from New York.

On July 2, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Tompkins County has received $1 million to assist with the Southworks Project.

It was part of $5.5 million awarded to six projects in the Southern Tier, and over $36 million for 48 projects through the state’s County Infrastructure Grant Program.

“I know first-hand how critical infrastructure is in order to uplift communities and bring families and loved ones together,” said Hochul. “From my early days on a Town Board to serving as Erie County Clerk and in Congress, I’ve seen how investments like these can breathe new life into neighborhoods, drive housing growth, support vibrant downtowns, and bring new energy to local economies. We’re putting local priorities front and center as we build a stronger New York.

southworksithaca.com

According to Hochul’s office, the program funds will support infrastructure in several key areas at the 95-acre site on South Aurora Street. The award will aid in the construction of public roads and a roundabout, sidewalks and curbs, a public water distribution system including fire hydrants and laterals, 24 sewer laterals, additions to the storm sewer collection system, stormwater quality and quantity mitigation, and erosion and sediment control.

Hochul added that the work funded by this grant will directly lead to the future construction of at least 100 of 450 planned residential housing units.

Located at the former Emerson Power Transmission plant, the multi-use Southworks project was approved in December 2022 and will be constructed in phases over a number of years.

Once completed, it will be a combination of housing, industrial, commercial, and outdoor public space. It received a tax abatement package from the Tompkins County IDA in October 2024 and has been praised by local officials.

You can learn more about the project and sign up for updates here.