Community debates new childcare center amid neighborhood concerns

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the proposed Downtown Ithaca Children's Center (DICC) project aimed at providing after-school care for children enrolled in the Ithaca City School District's Universal Pre-K (UPK) program. Krista Tripp, the executive director of operations at DICC, outlined the need for additional childcare services, noting that only two other licensed facilities currently offer aftercare for UPK students. The DICC plans to accommodate a maximum of 18 children, operating primarily in the afternoons during the school year, with full-day care available during school breaks.

Concerns were raised by local residents regarding potential disruptions, particularly related to parking and noise, stemming from experiences with a previous fitness center at the same location. Walter Chon, a property owner nearby, expressed worries about traffic and noise disturbances, urging the board to ensure that the rights of local residents are respected. In response, DICC representatives assured that they would implement measures to minimize disturbances, including strict parking guidelines and noise control.

Support for the project was evident among board members and community members, with many highlighting the importance of affordable childcare in the area. The board unanimously declared itself as the lead agency for the project and opened a public hearing, although an official hearing will be scheduled for a later date due to procedural requirements.

The meeting concluded with a general consensus on the necessity of the DICC's services, emphasizing the organization's commitment to being a good neighbor and providing essential support to families in the community.