Flooding data initiative launches community engagement in Ithaca's South Side

Flooding concerns took center stage at the Tompkins County Planning, Energy, and Environmental Quality Committee meeting on June 9, 2025, as officials discussed the urgent need for real-time data collection to enhance flood management strategies. Committee members emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting flooding incidents, which could significantly improve historical data and inform future planning.

A key proposal highlighted during the meeting was the encouragement for residents to share their experiences and evidence of flooding, including photographs and personal accounts. This grassroots approach aims to create a more comprehensive understanding of flooding patterns, particularly in areas often overlooked by existing FEMA flood models, which primarily focus on main waterways and neglect smaller tributaries and headwaters.

One committee member noted the potential risks facing the City of Ithaca, warning that the community is "one storm away from a really bad flooding event" due to inadequate dredging and maintenance of local creeks. This concern underscores the urgency of the proposed data collection initiative, especially for vulnerable neighborhoods like the South Side.

The committee is actively seeking to engage with local governing bodies, including the Ithaca Common Council, to broaden the reach of this initiative. Previous presentations have been made to various local organizations, and committee members are exploring additional outreach opportunities to raise awareness and encourage participation.

As the community gears up for potential flooding challenges, the call for real-time reporting and historical documentation stands as a crucial step toward better preparedness and response strategies in Tompkins County.