Fisher Associates joined City leadership, fire department personnel, the design team, and community members to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new East Hill Fire Station in Ithaca, NY.
Representing our Landscape Architecture Studio, Makenzie O’Rourke, RLA, and Jan Brath, RLA, were honored to see this vital community resource officially open its doors.

At Fisher Associates, we believe that smart, sustainable infrastructure is the foundation of safer, stronger communities. Our contributions to the East Hill Fire Station reflect that mission:
- Comprehensive site design supporting the facility’s bold sustainability goals and operational needs
- Full coordination and support through site plan approval, paving the way for a successful build
- Construction-phase administration to ensure timely, high-quality execution and alignment with project intent

The East Hill Fire Station is more than a modern emergency response facility—it’s a forward-looking investment in public safety, climate resilience, and community well-being. Designed with all-electric infrastructure and a thoughtful site layout, this project sets a new standard for sustainable municipal buildings.

The ceremony was a true celebration of community spirit and tradition. In place of the typical ribbon cutting, attendees witnessed a symbolic “hose uncoupling”—a gesture unique to fire service openings. The event also included the raising of the flag and the ceremonial push of the first fire engine into the station, officially marking the facility as operational.

We’re proud to be part of a team that’s helping build a safer, greener future for Ithaca.

