Categories: New York State, Member News, Openings
08.14.2024
On August 13th, Tompkins Community Action and the Vecino Group joined elected officials and project partners for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of Asteri Ithaca. This new affordable and supportive housing residence and 55,000 square-foot conference center includes 181 new affordable apartments, including 40 supportive in downtown Ithaca. Support services are provided by Tompkins Community Action funded by the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) and administered through the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
City of Ithaca Mayor Robert Cantelmo praised the new residence and said, “The Vecino Group designed and developed this beautiful building we are all enjoying right now in the heart of our downtown, simultaneously serving two needs: affordable housing and economic vitality.”
Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said, "The opening of Asteri Ithaca will serve as a significant economic development driver, bolstering Ithaca’s economy through attracting events both locally and outside of the region, all while providing essential affordable and supportive housing to vulnerable New Yorkers furthering upward mobility and economic growth.”
NYS Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “The City of Ithaca was officially certified as one of Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing communities in April – and if past production here is a sign of what’s to come, everyone can be assured that there will be more sustainable, affordable, supportive and mixed-use developments like the $96 million Asteri Ithaca in the city’s future. HCR is so proud to be part of bringing these 181 new affordable and supportive apartments to life. We couldn’t ask for a better result.”
State Senator Lea Webb said, “Affordable housing, economic development and opportunities for community engagement are top priorities in our region. This development is not just a building; it’s a lifeline for our community, offering 181 affordable apartments in a highly energy-efficient, all-electric environment. With 40 homes reserved for those in need of supportive services, you are providing independence and stability for so many.”
Assemblymember Anna Kelles said, “The Asteri project will have far-reaching, positive socio-economic impacts for Ithacans of all economic backgrounds. Our need for affordable and supportive housing in Ithaca is profound. This mixed-use project helps us move forward on the long road to sufficient affordable and supportive housing by providing 181 new affordable units and 40 units designated for individuals in need of supportive services..”
Tompkins County Legislature Dan Klein said, “Tompkins County has invested in this project by directing some of its hotel tax revenue as an ongoing funding source. This project provides housing and jobs in downtown Ithaca and will attract many visitors to Tompkins County.”
Downtown Ithaca Local Development Corporation President Jennifer Tavares said, “To the Vecino Group, thank you for working with our community to create this really special project.” She continued, “We know we need as much additional housing at all price points as possible, and we are grateful to you for building 181 affordable housing units here.”
Vecino Chairman Rick Manzardo said, “New York is very special to us, and within it Ithaca is a special thing. I want to mention Tompkins County Action here who have helped us to deliver 80 units for homeless individuals here over the past few years.” He continued, “But the team—HCR, Commissoner Visnauskas, Lenny—you provide us the tools to be kind. To do good for each other. And Asteri Ithaca will be a positive fixture in Ithaca for decades to come.”
The energy-efficient, all-electric building furthers the state's goals of achieving 85 percent carbon neutrality by 2050. The apartments have low-flow plumbing fixtures, along with Energy Star rated windows and appliances.
Building amenities include a 12th-floor sky terrace, outdoor space, fitness center and community room, a laundry room and indoor bike storage. In addition, the Ithaca Downtown Conference features bookable function space including an executive board room, grand ballroom, breakout rooms, pre-function space, and a full production kitchen.
Funding for this project comes from permanent tax-exempt bonds, Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, subsidy from HCR, NYSERDA’s New Construction-Housing Program, and State Development Regional Council Capital Grant to support the development of the Conference Center.
The general contractor is the Vecino Group and the architect is BW Architecture & Engineering.