The City of Ithaca is inviting residents to directly shape the future of the plaza outside City Hall through a new participatory budgeting pilot, part of its Justice50 initiative.
Justice50, adopted in May 2024, is Ithaca’s framework for advancing climate justice, focusing on democratic engagement, racial and economic equity, transparency, and accountability. Through participatory budgeting, residents—not just elected officials and city staff—will help decide how a portion of the city’s budget is spent.
This pilot project sets aside funding to renovate the City Hall Plaza, aiming to create a more welcoming and useful public space based on community ideas and needs. To kick off the process, residents are invited to complete a brief three-question survey on the OpenGov platform. The survey asks for input on possible improvements, such as public art, café seating, and shade structures, and encourages residents to submit their own suggestions.
The survey is open through May 19. City officials hope the pilot will strengthen civic engagement, foster a greater sense of shared responsibility, and build trust between residents and local government.
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