Parks & Recreation Seeks Input on CIP

Published on August 25, 2025

AMES, Iowa – The City of Ames Parks and Recreation Department will host a public input session regarding development of its 2026-2031 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP). Residents are invited to provide feedback on projects currently in the plan and to share ideas about new projects for the Parks and Recreation Commission to consider. The input session is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Homewood Golf Course Clubhouse.

“The City’s parks and facilities play a large role in providing an excellent quality of life in Ames and hearing what residents feel is needed to improve quality is very important,” said Keith Abraham, Parks and Recreation Director.

The CIP is funded through a 1% local option sales tax. Parks and Recreation projects average approximately $1,000,000 per year. The Parks and Recreation portion of the 2025-2030 CIP is available at www.amesparkrec.org to review. Some of the more significant projects currently in the plan are:

Installation of a bridge across Ioway Creek in Moore Memorial Park
Replacement of house lighting in the City Auditorium
Replacement of Cottonwood Shelter in North River Valley Park
Replacement of playground equipment throughout the park system
Renovation of the pond in Ada Hayden Heritage Park
Replacement of light fixtures on the pool deck at Furman Aquatic Center

The City of Ames CIP (2025-2030) can be viewed at www.cityofames.org under the Finance Department. After gathering input from residents, the Parks and Recreation Commission and City staff will develop the 2026-2031 plan and make recommendations to the City Council in January 2026.

Those who wish to provide input but are unable to attend the meeting should contact Keith Abraham at 515.239.5349 or keith.abraham@cityofames.org.

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