For years, Tompkins County employees have been going to work at what's been dubbed the "Old Jail." But now lawmakers are trying to bring the county a new office building.          

County lawmakers recently approved a $1.8 million deal to buy property on North Tioga and Sears Street. The county hopes to put a new office building there.

“Went through about four or five months of review, had an option to purchase the property. Staff spent a lot of time evaluating potential options,” said County Administrator Jason Molino.

With the vote complete, the county can look at several different blueprints.

“We’re going to move to closing and then start the process of trying to understand what exactly is going to go into the building, how big is it going to be, what are some of the details of it,” Molino said. 

The county administrators say 10 different scenarios have been laid out, with the office building ranging in size from 37,000 square feet to 46,000 square feet and between 25 to 42 parking spaces.

County officials say it will make it easier for residents to reach county services. For the city of Ithaca, some neighbors are hoping the Sears Street side of the property can be spruced out. 

“Ideally, what the city would like is to see that housing restored on Sears Street and especially affordable housing," said Seph Murtagh, the 2^nd Ward representative for the Common Council.

Lawmakers hope it's a win-win. It’s a purchase that could help the city's affordable housing crunch and give county employees the new home they need.

Construction could start next spring. Once it begins, it will take around 18 months to complete.