Community Beautification

The mission of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County Community Beautification Program is to increase the aesthetic visual quality of Tompkins County natural landscapes and use these gardens as conduits for research and education. We work with our partners to pursue economic vitality, ecological sustainability, and social well-being, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. The visual landscape of Tompkins County will be a reflection of its vibrant and caring communities: welcoming, colorful, diverse, artistic, inclusive and engaging.

About Beautification

Learn more about what the Community Beautification Program does to make Ithaca and Tompkins County a more beautiful and welcoming place!

Rural Beautification Grant, Groton Library Plantings

Rural Beautification Grants

Municipalities outside the City of Ithaca can apply for a grant through our Community Beautification Program. Contact us now for the details!

Public planting with many flowers in the foreground

Ithaca Public Plantings

Our public plantings are planted for impact and color. We utilize annuals, perennials, and shrubs to create beautiful and sustainable gardens.

Beautification Brigade

Join us in Beautifying our community! We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities. No experience necessary! Be part of the crew that makes Ithaca beautiful.

Contact

Janine Willis
Community Beautification Coordinator
beautification@cornell.edu
(607) 272-2292

Last updated April 1, 2026

Community Beautification

Download a Map!

map of Community Beautification sites in Ithaca NY
DOWNLOAD A MAP of Community Beautification planting sites in Ithaca, NY

Donate to Beautification!

Please visit the link below to make a secure donation using PayPal or a credit card of your choosing. Indicate Beautification Program in the note section in step 2. Thank you for your support!

Public Comments

What Ithaca residents are saying:

"Approaching State St on Green St yesterday afternoon, my breath stopped at the sight of a Goldfinch among the amazing flowers on the Triangle. Bravo to all you Beautifiers!"

What visitors to Ithaca are saying:
"Visiting from Sedona, Arizona, I was riding into town on 98B with my daughter in early October and came upon the triangle garden near the commons. Behold a stunning masterpiece of color! I had to poke my eyes back into my head and pick my jaw up off the floor. Thank you Community Beautification Program!!!"
-Lorrie Petersen