Tompkins County lawmakers approved an application for a $2 million state grant to help build a geothermal heating and cooling network for downtown government buildings, according to The Ithaca Voice.
The full project could cost more than $7 million across two phases, including work already planned for the county’s new Center of Government.
A second phase estimated at $5.26 million would connect the Daniel D. Tompkins Building, Old Jail and Main Courthouse to a shared geothermal system.
The state grant would require a $2 million local match, creating a potential future spending commitment as the county projects a $9.8 million budget deficit.
Officials said grants, tax credits and utility rebates could reduce the county’s cost, while maintaining the buildings’ existing heating and cooling systems could cost up to $1.54 million.
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