Baker will be responsible for communicating with property owners, businesses, and residents throughout the construction process through regular face-to-face visits, along with printed and electronic bulletins.
The Ithaca Commons is a two-block pedestrian mall in downtown Ithaca lined with retail shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. The repair and upgrade project is a multi-year effort that is estimated to cost about $10 million, according to published reports.
Baker most recently served as program director of the Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC), where she managed all aspects of the agency’s mediation programs and coached and managed more than 40 volunteers and staff members.
Baker has also served as chair of the Fall Creek Neighborhood Association since 2010.
“She brings a great combination of communication and mediation skills with the experience of heading a neighborhood association,” Gary Ferguson, DIA executive director, said of Baker’s hiring in a news release.
When asked about her goals for the next 18 months, Baker told the DIA her priority is to “keep the Commons merchants and tenants informed every step of the way” as the project continues.
Baker’s office is located in the Rothschild Building at 215 The Commons in downtown Ithaca, according to the DIA, a nonprofit dedicated to developing and promoting downtown Ithaca.
Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com