Ithaca Commons | Photo from the City of Ithaca website
As a founding MEGA member, Tompkins County has long played an important role in shaping the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance, as well as the region’s cultural and educational history.
Tompkins County is known for its beautiful natural scenery, vibrant communities, and long‑standing role as a cultural and educational center in the greater Finger Lakes region of the state. The county’s seat, the City of Ithaca, at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, brings together scenic gorges, walkable downtowns, and a strong sense of place that appeals to both visitors and residents.
Tompkins County is home to several well‑known state parks, including Buttermilk Falls, Robert H. Treman, and Taughannock Falls, where visitors can explore gorge trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Cayuga Lake provides opportunities for boating, paddling, and lakeside relaxation, while an extensive network of trails supports hiking, biking, and year‑round recreation. These natural features sit just minutes from town centers, making it easy to pair outdoor exploration with local dining, shopping, or events.
The county is also widely recognized for its educational and cultural offerings. Ithaca is home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, institutions that have shaped the community for generations and contribute to a lively arts, music, and educational scene. Farmers markets, festivals, and local performance venues add to the area’s character, while nearby towns and villages each bring their own traditions and community spaces.
From its iconic gorges and lakefront views to its campuses, neighborhoods, and community life, Tompkins County offers a mix of experiences that continue to define the Finger Lakes. We’re proud to feature Tompkins County in this Member Spotlight and recognize its lasting contributions to providing an innovative energy supply solution to local governments and schools across the state of New York.
