The City of Ithaca has reopened sidewalks around the Seneca Street Parking Garage after scaffolding was installed and an independent review found the protected pedestrian routes safe and accessible.
The sidewalks had been closed while the city addressed public-safety concerns involving exterior concrete panels on the garage.
The new scaffolding is intended to protect pedestrians and allow people to use the adjacent sidewalks while the city develops longer-term plans for the site.
Elwyn Palmer Consulting Engineers, the city's consultant for the project, reviewed the protected routes and provided safety and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance clearance. The firm determined the routes met safety and accessibility requirements and could reopen for public use.
Acting City Manager Dominick Recckio said reopening the sidewalks restores access and connectivity downtown while the protective measures remain in place. He thanked residents, businesses and visitors for their patience during the closure and review.
The reopened sidewalks restore direct access to nearby businesses, residences and other downtown destinations that were affected by the closures, according to the city.
City officials said they will provide updates as work continues at the garage and as decisions are made about transit operations and future redevelopment.
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