A transformative project in Ithaca’s West End, Arthaus offers 124 units of affordable housing, an on-site art gallery, and more
ITHACA, N.Y. – August 31, 2021 – Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) looks forward to Ithaca Arthaus opening its doors in late September/early October. Arthaus, located at 130 Cherry Street in the City of Ithaca, will offer much needed affordable housing in Downtown Ithaca and transform its west end neighborhood. The $28.8M, 124-unit, project received support from the IAED administered Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA), whose mission includes enhancing community vitality and supporting community revitalization.
Arthaus’ 5-story building will offer affordable apartments available to artists, at-risk youth, and the community at-large. Eligible residents must earn between 50%-80% of Area Median Income (AMI). Arthaus’ developer, The Vecino Group, partnered with Tompkins Community Action to include 40 units of supportive housing dedicated to youth formerly in foster care and homeless youth ages 18-25. The building will have an on-site gallery space, as well as space for supportive services, a community room, fitness room, indoor bike storage and a flexible gathering/workspace. The apartments will be a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom units.
“Tompkins County and the City of Ithaca face an ongoing shortage of affordable housing units. IAED and the TCIDA are thrilled to support innovative projects like Arthaus that move us one step closer to filling the gap between demand and availability while also enhancing our downtown and our local community,” said IAED President Heather McDaniel. Not only will Arthaus offer affordable housing, but it will also provide access for residents to the Waterfront Trail, Wegmans, and many other downtown businesses and services.
“The Vecino Group works hard to bring affordable housing projects to cities like Ithaca, where the demand for units is high. Ithaca is a great place to live, and our goal is to create homes where people can be comfortable, safe, and financially stable. We thank the TCIDA, IAED, and other local agencies and organizations, as well as New York State Homes & Community Renewal for their assistance in making this project a reality,” stated Rick Manzardo, President of The Vecino Group.
