ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – The City of Ithaca is investing in long-term housing potential.

On July 8, the Common Council approved the acquisition of the former Army Reserve Center on the western side of the city at 101 Sunrise Road.

The $1.7 million acquisition is being touted as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to obtain land within city limits that’s already connected to utilities and infrastructure. It will be available for interim municipal use while the city evaluates future needs and incorporates the property into both capital planning and real estate strategies.

“This is a rare opportunity for the city to acquire more than five acres of developable land within existing utility connections in a location that offers tremendous long-term potential,” said Acting City Manager Dominick Recckio. “While we evaluate interim municipal uses in the near term, we see this property as a strategic investment and significant future housing opportunity.”

City officials anticipate sharing more information when the sale closes and as future planning efforts move forward.