The Freel Drive Paving project involves paving the remaining gravel-surfaced portion of Freel Drive to SE 5th Street. The current gravel street is unable to withstand the increase in traffic and the weight of the trucks required to operate the Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C).
Project Update
Project anticipated to begin June/July 2026.
Project Schedule
The paving will take place concurrently with the construction of the Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus. Construction for this project will be staged between the entrances of the R3C to allow the R3C site construction to occur without interruption.
Project Contacts
City of Ames Project Manager is Dean Sayre, he can be reached at 515-239-5277.
City of Ames Inspector: Scott Miller, he can be reached at 515-203-0793.
The City of Ames is entering a new era of waste management with the development of the Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C). While we are proud of our history with Waste to Energy technology, this method is being phased out due to high operating costs, aging equipment, and regulatory challenges. This transition reflects our growing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and modern resource management.
Project Update
5.18.26
Weather permitting, work will begin on Monday, May 18, 2026. This work will involve installation of utilities to the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C) site. You may notice utility flags as the underground utilities are located prior to construction commencing. Freel Drive will be closed for utility installation. Access to businesses will be one way either from East Lincoln Way or SE 5th Street during installation. No through traffic will be allowed.
Additional Project Information
Project Schedule
Anticipated overall project duration is up to two weeks.
Project Contacts
City of Ames Public Works Department: 515-239-5160