LANSING, N.Y. (WHCU) – People will have a new place to hike in Tompkins County next year.

The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) has added 24 acres to the Sims-Jennings Preserve at Cayuga Cliffs in Lansing, which FLLT acquired in 2021. The purchase was made possible through Tompkins County’s Natural Infrastructure Capital Grant Program and through individual contributions. This addition will allow the organization to continue its work to safeguard animal habitats and water quality, as well as prepare the preserve for public access.

“This addition greatly expands the preserve’s frontage on State Route 34B,” said FLLT Executive Director Andy Zepp. “We are now able to move forward with plans to open this scenic nature preserve to the public.”

FLLT is in the planning phase to build a parking area, trailhead, and eventually a pollinator garden that will feature miles of trails with lake views. The public portion is projected to open in the spring of 2024.