City officials ordered residents to leave several floors of a downtown Ithaca apartment building after identifying hazardous fire safety conditions.
The City of Ithaca issued an immediate order to vacate Asteri Tower at 118 East Green St., affecting floors 4 through 12.
The fire marshal issued the order Wednesday. Officials warned that remaining in the building could pose a risk of loss of life.
City leaders said some tenants were still inside the tower despite the mandatory order. Property management has placed security at the entrance to prevent residents from returning.
Residents may briefly enter with a security escort to retrieve essential items such as identification or medication. Security will lock apartment units once residents leave.
The landlord is providing hotel accommodations for displaced tenants. Tompkins County agencies and local organizations are also helping residents find temporary housing, food, mental health services and other support.
Residents seeking housing help are advised to contact the landlord or Tompkins County Action.
In-person relocation assistance will be available Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Reading Room at the Tompkins County Public Library. Assistance will also be available Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at an office on the rear side of the Conference Center Building.
Residents with questions about transportation or services can call 211 for help.
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