HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - January 16, 2024, Special Meeting of the Ames City Council1.Staff presentation of recommended five-year Capital Improvements Plan
AGENDA
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE AMES CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
JANUARY 16, 2024
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: The Mayor and City Council welcome comments from
the public during discussion. The Standards of Decorum, posted at the door and
available on the City website, define respectful conduct for public participation. If you
wish to speak, please fill out the form on the tablet outside the door to the Council
Chambers or scan the QR Code to the right to fill out the same form on a personal
device. When your name is called, please step to the microphone, state your name for
the record, and keep your comments brief so that others may have the opportunity to speak.
CALL TO ORDER: 5:15 p.m.
WORKSHOP:
DISPOSITION OF COMMUNICATIONS TO COUNCIL:
COUNCIL COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
Please note that this agenda may be changed up to 24 hours before the meeting time as provided
by Section 21.4(2), Code of Iowa.
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To:Mayor and City Council
From:City of Ames Finance Department
Date:January 16, 2024
Subject:2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
Item No. 1
MEMO
As part of the City's annual budget process, staff presents the five-year capital
improvement plan for City Council consideration. Staff will present the plan by
department and receive feedback and questions from the City Council. Public input will
be received at the City Council meeting on January 23, 2024.
The current financial documents are located on our website here:
https://www.cityofames.org/government/departments-divisions-a-h/finance
ATTACHMENT(S):
2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan - DRAFT.pdf
City Clerk's Office 515.239.5105 main
515.239.5142 fax
515 Clark Ave. P.O. Box 811
Ames, IA 50010
www.CityofAmes.org
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CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
2024-2028
DRAFT 3
Anyone looking for a city with lots of activities and events would be
impressed by Ames in 2023! Our community planned, organized, and
hosted a year of diverse, entertaining, and well-attended options.
Celebrating together fosters connections with each other and cultivates
public pride. This past year showcased Ames, its neighborhoods, parks,
facilities, and people.
City of Ames opportunities like the Smart Business Challenge Luncheon,
the Boards and Commissions Annual Appreciation Luncheon, and
our City Employee Appreciation Luncheon started the year. As the
weather warmed, the activities flourished. Spring clean-up events
were held around Earth Day. The Bike-to-Work Week Breakfast in May
provided dedicated cyclists an opportunity to snack and chat with City
Councilmembers. This was followed by the Mayor’s Bike Ride, which
attracted more the 75 riders for a 10-mile loop around the community
and frequent stops to provide project updates.
Into the warmer months, the events really ramped up with parades,
picnics, and pool parties. The Ames Municipal Band concerts and City
Council Night at the Bandshell provided hundreds of attendees with
evening entertainment including watching the band play under colored
lights.
Summer events culminated with the 50th anniversary stop of the
Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa at the end of July.
Thousands of cyclists, support vehicles, charter buses, and visitors from
around the country journeyed to Ames, rode their bicycles through Jack
Trice Stadium, camped at a local park (or had a homestay visit), before
packing up and heading out en masse the next morning. The events
continued with Rummage RAMPage, the week-long community garage
sale at the Ames Intermodal Parking Ramp, and the return of Iowa State
University students in August.
The EcoFair returned in the fall to the City Hall parking lot with exhibits,
booths, live music, food trucks, and more. Hundreds of attendees learned
more about energy reduction tips, City rebates, and ways to become
more sustainable. The Great Pumpkin Disposal program diverted 23,300
pounds of food waste from the landfill.
Whatever the season, Ames experienced an exciting, enthusiastic, and
event-filled year. While the community was busy in 2023, it looks as
though 2024 is shaping up to be even more fun!
A VERY BUSY YEAR
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN
CITY OF AMES, IOWA
2024-2028
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January 12, 2024
Mayor and Ames City Council Members,
I am attaching for your review and approval the City Manager’s Recommended five-year Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) for fiscal
years (FY) 2024/25 through 2028/29. The Plan calls for expenditures of $294,805,926 supported by various funding sources over
the next five years.
The Capital Improvements Plan reflects the financing, location, and timing of a permanent structural change to a City’s property or
asset that prolongs its life, increases its value, or enhances its capabilities. In order to assist you in better understanding the major
projects included in the attached CIP, I am providing the following highlights.
Expenditures:
Public Safety $2,686,510
Utilities 138,437,000
Transportation 124,190,289
Culture & Recreation 28,242,127
Community Development 875,000
General Government 375,000
Total $294,805,926
Revenues:
Electric Utility $20,728,300
Water Utility 20,188,000
Sanitary Sewer Utility 13,481,000
Stormwater Utility 9,400,000
Resource Recovery 1,933,000
Transit Capital Reserve 5,898,030
Airport Improvement Fund 600,000
Ice Arena Capital Reserve 145,000
Outside Funding (federal & state grants & donations) 80,111,315
Debt (GO Bonds and State Revolving Loans) 142,321,281
Total $294,805,926
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It is Time to Catch up on Projects!
Faced with tightening budgets, many cities cannot, or choose not to, pursue maintenance, repairs, and/or upgrades to their public
infrastructure. In fact, oftentimes, these projects are the first to be cut from the budget. Fortunately, the Mayor and Ames City
Council realize delaying these projects will only result in even higher costs to our residents in the future if we wait until they fail
before the necessary corrective action is taken. Consequently, our CIP has traditionally included a robust list of improvements to
our public infrastructure.
Unfortunately, factors outside of our control have delayed the implementation of many projects approved in prior CIPs, resulting in
costs that exceed our originally budgeted amounts. Rising interest rates, supply chain delays, and a shortage of skilled labor have
resulted in higher-than-expected bids, forcing us to delay moving ahead with a number of projects in a timely manner. Therefore,
a common theme in the CIP is a significant amount of carryover funding for capital improvement projects that were not
completed in prior years as planned. Given the large amount of carryovers, you will note in some programs that funding
in the initial years of the CIP has decreased compared to previous years. This strategy is being recommended to allow
time for departments to catch up by accomplishing projects previously approved but delayed. This strategy also entails
delaying some projects already scheduled in the CIP and/or introducing limited projects in the Plan in order to free up
funding to accommodate the new estimated cost increases for the highest-priority projects.
Public Safety - $2,686,510
Fire - $2,686,510
Fire Apparatus Replacement Program – Engine #2 (page 9) will allow for the purchase of a new frontline apparatus as a
replacement for an existing apparatus which will have exceeded its projected useful life by the second year of the Plan. The existing
Engine #2 will then be refurbished, gaining an additional ten years to serve as a reserve unit.
Since the addition of a fourth fire station in the community is dependent on how far and how fast the city expands in accordance
with our Ames 2040 Plan, it is difficult at this time to project when this facility will be needed. However, because the projected
delivery times for a fire engine currently can be as long as 40 months, the Fire Apparatus Replacement Program - Engine #4
(page 11) is being introduced in the fifth year of the CIP. This required purchase will be delayed or advanced based on the timing
of the construction of a fourth fire station.
Utilities - $138,437,000
Electric - $21,910,000
Over the next five years of the Plan, $2,625,000 will be earmarked for improvements to the Transmission System, $7,020,000 for
the Distribution System, and $9,865,000 for our Production system. This proactive investment will help ensure that this critical
utility will continue providing low-cost, reliable electricity to our customers.
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Two projects included in the CIP are in response to the City Council’s Climate Action Plan goal of reducing the carbon emissions
in the community by 80% by 2030. The Advanced Metering Infrastructure project (page 17) will modernize our metering system
to allow for load management of our peak demand, outage identifications, remote disconnection capabilities, and time-of-day rates
that incentivize usage during off-peak hours.
In order to promote the transition to electric vehicles, the infrastructure must be in place to accommodate the needs of the owners.
While we are seeing various private sector entities installing electric vehicle charging stations throughout the city, the Electric
Vehicle Infrastructure project (page 18) will allow the City to do its part in facilitating this transition by installing at least five fast
chargers and ten Level 2 chargers in the community over the life of the CIP.
Three of the projects; the Refuse Derived Bin Renovation (page 32), Units 5 and 6 Boiler Removal (page 34), and Coal Yard
Reclamation (page 36); are dependent on a decision by the City Council regarding the future of solid waste collection and disposal.
Of the 21 projects included in the Electric Services CIP, 14 have either been delayed because of material deliveries or have
experienced cost increases over previous CIP estimates. The Fiber Optic Hardware Replacement (page 21) is the only new
project being recommended over the next five years. This hardware serves as the communication link to our substations, and it is
reaching the end of its useful life. Locating replacement parts for the original components has become problematic.
Water Utility - $36,741,000
The Water System Improvements program (page 59) represents the largest single project investment of $13,250,000 in the
Water Utility. Over the next five years, aged cast iron mains in our older neighborhoods will be replaced with larger 12” mains to
eliminate rusty water problems, provide increased water pressure for fire protection, and improve the lack of looping needed to
provide redundancy during a main break.
The following three new projects are being introduced for the first time in this CIP:
1) The Technical Services Complex Addition (page 39) will allow for needed renovations to the building that houses the
Laboratory Services and Water Meter Divisions. Included in this work will be improvements for a larger conference room, additional
office space, kitchenette, restrooms, first aid/lactation room, garage/storage areas, and the addition of an elevator.
2) The New Pumps and Drives at Water Treatment Plant project (page 49) will add two new high-service variable frequency
drives to the pump station. This equipment will allow the pumps to operate below their maximum speed, which allows the ability
to match the water demand of the customers.
3) The Mortensen and County Line Elevated Tank Repainting project (page 50) calls for the repainting of this water tank that
was placed into service in 2003. With an expected 20-year life for the original painting, it is time to plan for this work in the CIP.
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Physical and Cyber Security Improvements (page 46) remain a high priority for this critical utility. The current Plan focuses on
physical security items such as exterior fencing and interior access control improvements.
The Prairie View Industrial Center Elevated Tank project (page 47) is once again being delayed because of the slower-than-
anticipated development in this area. The $11,429,000 expenditure for a new one-million-gallon water tower will be advanced or
delayed in future CIPs depending on the pace of growth in the industrial area.
In accordance with a recently completed physical security assessment from the Department of Homeland Security, the Well Field
Standby Power project (page 44) will provide standby electrical power to selected water wells at the Hunziker Youth Sports
Complex. This initiative will help ensure the continuation of our water service during an electric outage.
Sanitary Sewer Utility - $66,853,000
The Nutrient Reduction Modifications project (page 52) represents the most costly project ever undertaken by the City.
According to a special condition of our WPC Plant’s discharge permit issued by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the
City must convert the Plant to a biological nutrient removal system. The most recent cost estimate for this project is $110,350,000.
Unfortunately, given the increase in interest rates required to debt finance this conversion, the estimated cost has increased from
the $77,900,000 total reflected in the previous CIP.
In order to meet this mandate, the project will be divided into two phases. Phase I is reflected in this five-year plan, with work
scheduled for FY 2024/25 and FY 2025/26 at an estimated cost of $52,000,000. The remaining work will be accomplished in Phase
II, which is scheduled to begin in FY 2035/36 at an estimated cost of $58,350,000.
In order to maintain the same sanitary sewer rate increases previously projected for the next five years in the face of a 41% cost
increase in the Nutrient Reduction Modifications project, the funding for the reconstruction of sanitary sewer lines and manholes
is being substantially decreased in the Sanitary Sewer System Improvements program (page 61). This is one of the areas
mentioned previously where, because there is substantial funding ($12,000,000) being carried forward as a result of delays in
accomplishing previously approved projects, there will be funding available to accomplish the work of the department in the next
five years.
In addition, to continue the positive impact on our rivers and streams, the CIP includes the continuation of the Watershed-Based
Nutrient Reduction (page 54) program will result in flood risk reduction, drought risk reduction, increased recreational opportunities,
improved wildlife habitat, better urban stormwater management, and enhanced drinking water protection.
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The Cogeneration System Maintenance project (page 53) will allow for the construction of a new fats, oils, and grease receiving
station at the WPC Plant, thereby improving the City’s ability to accept food waste that currently is being diverted away from the
Resource Recovery Plant. This food waste will be anaerobically digested at the WPC Plant to produce methane that can be used
to produce electricity to operate the Plant. Thus, the project helps achieve the Council’s goal in the City’s Climate Action Plan to
reduce waste emissions.
Stormwater Utility - $11,000,000
Support for stormwater projects remains a high priority for our residents as evidenced by the responses reflected in our Annual
Resident Satisfaction Survey. Our residents are concerned that, as our city expands and more land is covered with impervious
surfaces, their properties will be subject to inundation from overland or river flooding.
This commitment to addressing these stormwater runoff concerns is accomplished in the Stormwater Erosion Control program
(page 64) which stabilizes areas eroded by waterways, the Stormwater Improvement program (page 65) that repairs deteriorated
pipes and intakes, the Low Point Drainage Improvements program (page 66) that concentrates on residential areas impacted
by localized flooding or standing water, the Stormwater Quality Improvements program (page 67) that includes water quality
and treatment techniques that remove sediment before they enter the waterways, and the Stormwater Detention/Retention
Maintenance program (page 68) that performs long-term maintenance on the regional water quantity retention facilities.
The South Skunk River Improvements project (page 69) will address the final recommendation from a comprehensive Flood
Mitigation Study that was completed following the floods of 2010 and 2013. In order to improve the conveyance of water through
the city and reduce flooding along the South Duff commercial area, the stream restoration project along Ioway Creek under the
South Duff bridge was recently completed. Next year, the IDOT intends to solicit bids to widen the Highway 30 bridge. The final
step involves a City project scheduled in FY 2027/28 to increase the capacity of the S.E. 16th bridge to convey water flow as well.
Resource Recovery Utility - $1,933,000
Developing a five-year plan for the Resource Recovery Utility is very difficult this year. Since its inception in the mid-1970s, the
City of Ames has gained national recognition for its progressive approach to processing garbage collected in Story County so that
most waste is burned as an alternate fuel source in our municipal electric power plant. This process substantially reduces the
amount of materials that must be landfilled. Because the facility continues to age, other technologies are now available, and the
economics of the operation have changed; the City Council has asked staff to present options for the next generation of our efforts
to deal with municipal solid waste. Given the uncertainty at this time, the Resource Recovery System Improvements program
(page 71) was created assuming status quo over the next five years. At this point, it is safe to expect that this program will be
revised next year to reflect the inevitable changes that will be made regarding how we will be handling waste disposal.
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Transportation - $124,190,289
Streets and Traffic Flow Improvements - $76,533,000
Over the years, the Annual Resident Satisfaction Survey results have told us that our residents' two highest priorities for CIP
projects are streets and traffic flow improvements. To this end, the CIP includes $56,105,000 for street improvements, $3,150,000
for street maintenance activities, and $17,278,000 for traffic flow enhancements.
Street Improvement projects include the widening and/or total reconstruction of existing roadways throughout the City (pages 75
– 85). Of the eleven projects dedicated to street improvements, ten remain unchanged from the previous CIP and no new projects
have been added. In addition, one project, Right-of-Way Restoration (page 82), reflects no new funding included in FY 2024/25
to allow time to catch up using sufficient carryover monies to complete needed projects in that year.
Traffic Flow projects (pages 92 - 97) include intersection work focusing of the Grand Avenue corridor as well as the installation of
replacement traffic signals when their useful life has expired or new traffic signals when an analysis indicates they are justified.
Street Rehabilitation projects (pages 99 – 102) are dedicated to proactive surface restoration techniques that are intended to
prolong the life of a street before it needs a more costly and lengthy reconstruction. The work will include patching, slurry seal
sealing, and joint sealing.
This CIP continues the City Council’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community with the Accessibility Enhancements
Program (page 95). This annual program combines sidewalk and pedestrian ramp improvements with additional accessibility
upgrades at traffic signals and city parking lots so as to bring these facilities into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act.
One new project included in this CIP is the Lincoln Way Bridge Replacement (page 102). The Iowa Department of Transportation
requires an inspection of all city bridges every two years. The last inspection indicates that we should begin planning to replace
this bridge with design work in FY 2028/29 and construction in FY 2029/30. Should a future inspection reveal accelerated
deterioration in this structure, this project will be advanced in the CIP.
Many of the complaints we receive from our residents are centered on a frustration with delays in traffic flows along our busiest
arterial streets. The new Intelligent Transportation System Program (page 92) is expected to alleviate these concerns. This
new system will allow for real-time optimization of traffic and pedestrian flow at signalized intersections. The CIP includes funding
to complete the installation of this new system by FY 2026/27 so that improved traffic flow will be realized along the Duff Avenue,
South 16th Street, Grand Avenue, 13th Street, and Lincoln Way Avenue corridors.
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Shared Use Path System - $5,880,000
A robust shared use path system is not only consistent with the City’s Climate Action Plan because it offers a multi-modal alternative
to vehicular transportation. It also provides a popular recreational amenity desired by many of our residents. Recognizing these
benefits, the City Council has established a goal to invest a minimum of $1,200,000 per year in improvements to our path system.
The five-year plan includes construction of new path segments in the Shared Use Path System Expansion program (page 88);
installation of improvements to the existing system for crossing visibility, on-street bike lanes, and sharrows in the Multi-Modal
Roadway Improvements (page 89); and spot repairs to existing paths in the Share Use Path Maintenance program (page 90).
These programs, coupled with a new path segment that will be incorporated in the South 16th Street Widening project (page 75),
reflects total expenditures of $6,868,200 over the five years of the CIP, or an average of $1,373,640 per year.
Transit - $20,103,289
In an effort to decrease the average age of our fleet and increase the number of battery powered electric buses, which also reduces
our carbon emissions, most of the funds committed to CyRide in the CIP are devoted to Vehicle and Replacement &
Rehabilitation (page 104). Over the next five years we plan to replace twenty-seven vehicles by purchasing nineteen new 40-foot
buses, three battery electric buses, and five administrative vehicles.
Our 40-year-old CyRide facility is reaching the extent of its useful life and is in need of major repairs and expansion. To respond
to these needs, the CyRide Facility Improvements program (page 105) will result in the upgrading of fire suppression capabilities,
concrete replacement, fueling system upgrades, and planning for an addition to the facility.
Various equipment needs will be addressed in the CyRide Shop and Office Equipment program (page 107). An effort will be
made to upgrade our bus stops to enhance the passenger experience.
Continuing the commitment to offer updated technology to assist our passengers, the CyRide Technology Improvements
program (page 106) will invest in new systems that improve efficiency and ride experience for passengers with disabilities. Interior
signs displaying upcoming stops will be expanded into additional buses.
Airport - $21,674,000
A recently completed Master Plan for the James H. Banning Airport served as a guide for the projects designated for this City
facility. The reconstruction of the deteriorated entry road is planned for FY 2024/25, as shown in the Airport Entryway
Improvements program (page 111). The Airport Airside Improvements (page 110) will focus on resurfacing the Runways 01/19
and 13/31 as well as Taxiway A and B. Finally, the Airport Facility Improvements program (page 112) will allow us to make
drainage improvements on the grounds, replace our aging fuel farm, relocate the weather station, and demolish the old terminal
building.
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It should be noted that of the $21,674,000 earmarked for these Airport improvements, non-property tax revenue of $18,064,000 is
anticipated to be received from user fees as well as state and federal grants to fund this work.
Culture and Recreation - $28,242,127
Historically, we have devoted approximately $900,000 each year from our Local Option Sales Tax receipts to fund various
improvements in our park system in lieu of issuing G.O. Bonds. This “pay as you go” strategy saves our residents money by
avoiding interest costs associated with debt financing. You will note after reviewing the projects in this section that the number
of projects identified over the next five years has decreased, yet the amount of Local Option Sales Tax revenue remains
the same. Because of a backlog of projects as well as the significant increase in the estimated costs of previously approved
projects, we feel catchup time is needed before adding many new projects. At the same time, the total revenue requirements must
remain the same to cover increased costs.
Parks – $28,044,823
The latest cost estimate for the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatics Center (page 115) is $32,100,694. Much of the preliminary work
on this project ($10,224,067) including environmental testing, land acquisition, design, soils testing, and land surveying was
accomplished in the previous four years. This CIP reflects the final two years of the project in FY 2024/25 and FY 2025/26 for
construction, purchase of equipment and furniture, and pollution remediation/mitigation, if necessary, at a cost of $21,876,627.
A new community Splash Pad (page 118) at Daley Park is scheduled for construction in FY 2024/25. With a final decision by the
City Council to support its sustainability goals through the utilization of a recirculation system rather than passing the water used
at this facility directly into the storm sewer, an additional $556,036 is needed in FY 2024/25 to install a disinfection system, balance
tank, and recirculation pumps. In addition, the State Department of Health requires that this type of system have additional
restrooms/showers. Not only is this recirculation system more environmentally friendly, it will result in lower annual water and sewer
operating costs.
The City Council’s goal of creating an inclusive community will be furthered with investment in the ADA Transition Plan
Improvements project (page 120). A thorough assessment of our park system and facilities was completed in FY 2022/23. This
program will provide funding to begin implementing the Plan to better serve residents of all abilities and comply with the ADA
Standards for Accessible Design.
One of our most popular parks, Ada Hayden Heritage Park, (page 121) will receive attention through the widening and the
repaving of the path system with concrete over the first two years of the CIP. In order to create a more child-friendly fishing location,
the pond located at the northwest section of the park on the Upland Trail will be dredged, and a fishing dock, solar aerator, and
path around the pond will be added.
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An important connection along our multi-use path system will be completed in Moore Memorial Park (page 123) where a bridge
will be constructed linking the current path in the park with the land west of Ioway Creek. Ultimately, this new linkage will allow for
a connection along Scholl Road to Ontario Street path.
Ames/ISU Ice Arena - $145,000
This Ames/ISU Ice Arena (page 122) is over twenty-two years old and therefore, the CIP addresses the need to replace or
overhaul major systems in the facility such as the compressor and water heaters.
Homewood Golf Course - $250,000
One major project has been inserted into the CIP for the Homewood Golf Course (page 124) to replace the bridge on Hole #9.
This structure was originally designed for walking golfers. With the introduction of motorized carts on the course, the bridge will be
redesigned and constructed to accommodate heavier vehicles.
Cemetery - $150,000
Cemetery Improvements (page 129) over the next five years will be directed to replacing the perimeter fence at the Ontario
Cemetery and purchasing three additional columbaria to meet the growing demand for this option.
Community Development - $875,000
The CIP continues the City Council’s commitment to residential and commercial neighborhoods. In support of this priority, the
Neighborhood Improvement Program (page 135) provides grants for physical improvements requested by residents in their
neighborhood and facilitates interactions among the residents as they participate in the construction of the improvements. In
addition, the Downtown (page 133) and Campustown (page 134) Façade programs provide grants for physical improvements
that enhance the appearance and usability of the structures in these critical commercial areas.
General Government - $375,000
Funding is also included in the CIP for the City Hall Improvements program (page 139). Funding in this program will be used for
repairs and renovations to City Hall beyond the scope of the Facilities operating budget.
Prioritization of New Projects
Now that the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center is underway, it is time for the City Council to prioritize five new major projects for
consideration for the FY 2025/26-2029/30 CIP. All five of the following projects may require a public referendum and debt financing
that will likely impact property taxes. The projects, in alphabetic order, are:
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Animal Control Shelter - New
The existing facility is overcrowded and inadequate.
Fire Station #2 - Relocated
Relocating this facility to State Ave. will improve overall response times and eliminate a safety concern with emergency vehicles
entering and leaving a very congested area on Welch Ave.
Fire Station #4 - New
As the City expands in accordance with the Ames 2040 Plan, a new fourth station will be needed to maintain adequate emergency
response times. The exact timing of this need for an additional station will depend on the pace of the City’s growth.
Indoor Recreation Center - New
A new facility with indoor basketball courts, soccer field(s), and running/jogging can be justified to meet the desires of our residents,
youth and adults alike.
Ontario Park Development - New
With the purchase of 50 acres in west Ames along Ontario Road there is a need to develop this property with trails, shelters,
restrooms, bridges, recreation facilities.
Special Thanks!
As always, I want to thank our Department Heads and their management team members for identifying those projects that are
needed for us to continue to provide exceptional service to our residents and, by being proactive, for helping us avoid more costly
projects in the future.
Special recognition should also be given to Corey Goodenow, Finance Director, Nancy Masteller, Budget Manager, Brian Phillips,
Assistant City Manager, and Amanda Polin, Finance Department Secretary for their excellent work in reviewing, compiling, and
formulating the financial plan for this document.
Sincerely,
Steven L. Schainker
City Manager
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City of Ames, Iowa
Five-Year Capital Improvements Plan
2024-2029
Table of Contents
How To Use the CIP Document ............................................................................................................................................ II
Project Index ........................................................................................................................................................................ III
Projection of Debt Capacity ............................................................................................................................................... VIII
Summary of Major Bond Issues .......................................................................................................................................... IX
City-Wide Summary .............................................................................................................................................................. 1
Capital Improvements – By Program
Public Safety .................................................................................................................................................... 7
Utilities ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
Transportation ................................................................................................................................................ 73
Culture and Recreation ................................................................................................................................ 113
Community Development ............................................................................................................................. 131
General Government ................................................................................................................................... 137
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How To Use the CIP Document
The 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan for the city of Ames is organized according to the City’s program structure of
services. This format allows decision makers to consider proposed improvements in much the same manner as the annual
operating budget. First-year portions of these projects can also be identified in the annual operating program budget.
1. The description/justification section outlines the basic work to be done and the intended outcome or result of the
project, outlines the reasons behind the proposal of the project, and also the advantages to the city of undertaking the
project. The section may also describe the disadvantages to the city of either waiting to do the project, or of
disapproving it altogether.
2. The comments section outlines any additional information related to the project, including status changes from a
previous year, its relationship to other projects or future developments, impacts on operating budgets and others.
3. The location section lists a street location or various locations for each project. Specific locations for public works
projects can also be found on the city of Ames website at:
https://gis.cityofames.org/images/apps/cipmaps.html
In addition to the above information, the bottom of each page lists the types of costs (planning, construction, etc.) Which will
be associated with the project for each year of the present CIP. Below that is shown the source of financing for the project
in each year.
II
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Index to 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
City of Ames, Iowa
Page
Public Safety: 7
Fire 8
Fire Engine #2 Replacement 9
Station Alerting System 10
Fire Apparatus Replacement Program/Fire Engine #4 11
Utilities: 13
Administration 15
Advanced Metering Infrastructure 17
Electric Vehicle Infrastructure 18
Electric Transmission 19
69 kV Transmission Reconstruction 19
Electric Distribution 20
Mortensen Road Substation 69kV Transformer Protection 20
Fiberoptic Hardware Replacement 21
Streetlight and Line Relocations 22
Vet Med Substation Switchgear Upgrade 23
Dayton Avenue Substation Switchgear Upgrades 24
Electric Production 25
Power Plant Building Modifications 25
Power Plant Load Centers and Breaker Replacement 26
Critical Electric System Generators 27
Power Plant Relay/Control Replacement 28
III17
Index to 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
City of Ames, Iowa
Utilities - Continued Page
Electric Production
Combustion Turbine Generation Improvements 29
Turbine/Generator Minor Overhauls 30
Turbine/Generator Major Overhaul 31
RDF Weigh System 32
Plant Controls WIFI Network 33
Units 5 and 6 Boiler Removal 34
Combustion Turbine 2 Inlet Heating 35
Coal Yard Reclamation 36
Unit 8 Tube Corrosion Injection 37
Water Production/Treatment 38
Technical Services Complex Addition 39
Water Plant Facility Improvements 40
Lime Lagoon Improvements 41
Advanced Metering Infrastructure 42
Ada Hayden Water Quality Study 43
Well Field Standby Power 44
SAM Pump Station Improvements 45
Physical/Cyber Security Improvements 46
Prairie View Industrial Center Elevated Tank 47
Wellhead Rehabilitation 48
Water Treatment Plant Pumps/Drives 49
MAC Elevated Tank Repainting 50
Water Pollution Control 51
Nutrient Reduction Modifications 52
Cogeneration System Maintenance 53
Watershed-Based Nutrient Reduction 54
WPC Plant Facility Improvements 55
Lift Station Improvements 56
Clarifier Maintenance 57
IV
18
Index to 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
City of Ames, Iowa
Utilities - Continued Page
Water Distribution 58
Water System Improvements 59
Sanitary Sewer System 60
Sanitary Sewer System Improvements 61
Clear Water Diversion 62
Stormwater 63
Stormwater Erosion Control Program 64
Stormwater Improvement Program 65
Low Point Drainage Improvements 66
Stormwater Quality Improvements 67
Stormwater Detention/Retention Maint 68
South Skunk River Improvements 69
Resource Recovery 70
Resource Recovery System Improvements 71
Transportation: 73
Street Improvements 74
South 16th Street Roadway Widening 75
Collector Street Pavement Improvements 76
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 77
Concrete Pavement Improvements 78
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 79
Alley Pavement Improvements Program 80
Downtown Street Pavement Improvements 81
Right-Of-Way Restoration 82
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements 83
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements 84
Campustown Public Improvements 85
V 19
Index to 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
City of Ames, Iowa
Transportation - Continued Page
Shared Use Paths 86
Shared Use Path System Expansion 88
Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements 89
Shared Use Path Maintenance 90
Traffic Improvements 91
Intelligent Transportation System Program 92
Traffic System Capacity Improvements 93
Traffic Signal Program 94
Accessibility Enhancements Program 95
Metropolitan Transportation Plan Update 96
Regional Transportation Count Program 97
Street Rehabilitation 98
Pavement Restoration 99
Neighborhood Curb Replacement Program 100
Streetscape Enhancements 101
Lincoln Way Bridge Replacement 102
Transit System 103
Vehicle Replacement 104
CyRide Facility Improvements 105
CyRide Technology Improvements 106
CyRide Shop/Office Equipment 107
Bus Stop Improvements 108
Airport 109
Airside Improvements 110
Airport Entryway Improvements 111
Airport Facility Improvements 112
VI
20
Index to 2024-2029 Capital Improvements Plan
City of Ames, Iowa
Page
Culture And Recreation 113
Parks And Recreation 114
Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center 115
Park System/Facility Improvements 117
Splash Pad 118
Playground Equipment Improvements 119
ADA Transition Plan Improvements 120
Ada Hayden Heritage Park 121
Ames/ISU Ice Arena 122
Moore Memorial Park 123
Homewood Golf Course 124
Furman Aquatic Center 125
Library 126
Library Carpet Replacement 127
Cemetery 128
Cemetery Improvements 129
Community Development 131
Neighborhood Improvements 132
Downtown Façade Improvement Program 133
Campustown Façade Improvement Program 134
Neighborhood Improvement Program 135
General Government 137
Facilities 138
City Hall Improvements 139
VII
21
2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Actual Budgeted Projected Projected Projected Projected Projected
1.Total Actual Valuation 5,512,039,832 5,541,171,438 6,561,140,157 6,757,974,362 6,960,713,593 7,169,535,001 7,384,621,051
2.State Mandated Debt Limit 275,601,992 277,058,572 328,057,008 337,898,718 348,035,680 358,476,750 369,231,053
3.City Reserve (25% of Limit) 68,900,498 69,264,643 82,014,252 84,474,680 87,008,920 89,619,188 92,307,763
Un-Reserved Debt Capacity 206,701,494 207,793,929 246,042,756 253,424,038 261,026,760 268,857,562 276,923,290
4.Outstanding Debt 65,175,000 67,035,000 58,840,000 50,555,000 42,740,000 35,905,000 29,775,000
5.Proposed Issues - - 18,534,116 15,692,898 14,357,256 12,468,467 11,861,544
6.Balance of Proposed Issues - - (620,997) 16,275,160 29,346,200 40,167,169 48,177,328
Total Debt Subject to Limit 65,175,000 67,035,000 76,753,119 82,523,058 86,443,456 88,540,636 89,813,872
7.Available Un-Reserved Debt
Capacity ($) 141,526,494 140,758,929 169,289,637 170,900,980 174,583,304 180,316,926 187,109,418
8.Available Un-Reserved Debt
Capacity (%) 68.47% 67.74% 68.80% 67.44% 66.88% 67.07% 67.57%
9.Total Debt Capacity ($) 210,426,992 210,023,572 251,303,889 255,375,660 261,592,224 269,936,114 279,417,181
10.Total Debt Capacity (%) 76.35% 75.80% 76.60% 75.58% 75.16% 75.30% 75.68%
Notes:
1. Total assessed valuation plus utility valuation growth assumption is 3.0% per year.
2. State of Iowa statutory debt limit is 5% of total actual valuation.
3. City Policy reserves 25% percent of available debt capacity.
4. Current outstanding debt subject to limit at Fiscal Year End includes all debt in which property taxes are pledged.
5. Debt issues subject to limit proposed are part of Capital Improvement Plan.
6. Debt Balance on Issues in Capital Improvement Plan.
7. Debt capacity available after deducting the reserved capacity.
8. Percentage of debt capacity available after deducting the reserved capacity.
9. Debt capacity available prior to deducting the reserved capacity.
10. Percentage of Debt capacity available prior to deducting the reserved capacity.
Projection of Debt Capacity
VIII
22
Summary of Major Bond Issues
General Obligation Bonds Project Category % Project Other Sources
Total Total G.O. Funded of Funding
2024/25:
Traffic Improvements: 476,100
Intelligent Transportation System 476,100 19% Road Use Tax/Grants
Airport Improvements: 680,000
Airport Entryway Improvements 680,000 100%
Parks and Recreation: 17,378,016
Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center 16,678,016 81% Donations/Grant/ARPA Funds
Ada Hayden Heritage Park 700,000 100%
2024/25 Total 18,534,116
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
IX 23
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Summary of Major Bond Issues, continued
General Obligation Bonds Project Category % Project Other Sources
Total Total G.O. Funded of Funding
2025/26:
Fire: 1,071,499 100%
Fire Engine #2 Replacement 1,071,499
Street Improvements: 10,050,000
Collector Street Pavement Improvements (Bloomington Rd) 800,000 36% MPO/STP Funds
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 4,000,000 100%
Concrete Pavement Improvements 3,600,000 100%
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 1,000,000 100%
Alley Pavement Improvements 400,000 100%
Downtown Street Pavement Improvements 250,000 100% MPO/STP Funds
Traffic Improvements: 1,887,540
Intelligent Transportation System 367,540 13% Road Use Tax/Grants
Traffic System Capacity (13th Street/Grand Avenue) 1,520,000
Airport: 806,500
Airport Airside Improvements 683,500 100%
Airport Facility Improvements 123,000 18% Federal/State Grants
Parks and Recreation: 1,877,359
Indoor Aquatic Center 1,177,359 100%
Ada Hayden South Lake Path Replacement 700,000 100%
2025/26 Total 15,692,898
X
24
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Summary of Major Bond Issues, continued
General Obligation Bonds Project Category % Project Other Sources
Total Total G.O. Funded of Funding
2026/27:
Street Improvements: 13,400,000
Collector Street Pavement Improvements (West Street) 1,500,000 100%
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 2,900,000 100%
Concrete Pavement Improvements 3,350,000 100%
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 900,000 100%
Alley Pavement Improvements 400,000 100%
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements (East Lincoln Way) 600,000 20% MPO/STP Funds
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements (Lincoln Way) 2,000,000 100%
Campustown Improvements (Chamberlain Street) 1,750,000 100%
Traffic Improvements: 178,756
Intelligent Transportation System 178,756 13% Road Use Tax/Grants
Airport: 778,500
Airport Airside Improvements 683,500 100%
Airport Facility Improvements 95,000 13% FAA/Airport Improvements
2026/27 Total 14,357,256
Street Improvements: 13,400,000
Collector Street Pavement Improvements (West Street) 1,500,000 100%
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 2,900,000 100%
Concrete Pavement Improvements 3,350,000 100%
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 900,000 100%
Alley Pavement Improvements 400,000 100%
2026/27 Total 14,357,256
XI25
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan Summary of Major Bond Issues, continued
General Obligation Bonds Project Category % Project Other Sources
Total Total G.O. Funded of Funding
2027/28:
Fire: 283,467 72% General Fund
Fire Station Alerting System 283,467
Stormwater Improvements: 600,000 100%
South Skunk River Improvements 600,000
Street Improvements: 10,770,000
Collector Street Pavement Improvements (Wheeler Street) 1,500,000 100%
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 4,500,000 100%
Concrete Pavement Improvements (6th Street) 1,300,000 100%
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 750,000 100%
Alley Pavement Improvements 400,000 100%
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements (E 13th and Duff) 720,000 30% MPO/STP Funds
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements (Bloomington Rd) 1,600,000 100%
Airport: 815,000
Airport Airside Improvements 420,000 11% FAA/Grants/Airport Improvements
Airport Entryway Improvements 395,000 100%
2027/28 Total 12,468,467
XII
26
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan Summary of Major Bond Issues, continued
General Obligation Bonds Project Category % Project Other Sources
Total Total G.O. Funded of Funding
2028/29:
Fire: 1,331,544
Fire Engine #4 1,331,544 100%
Street Improvements: 9,000,000
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 3,000,000 100%
Concrete Pavement Improvements (7th Street) 1,500,000 100%
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 1,000,000 100%
Alley Pavement Improvements 400,000 100%
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements (Duff Avenue) 700,000 28% MPO/STP Funds
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements (16th Street) 2,400,000 100%
Traffic Improvements: 1,000,000
Traffic System Capacity (24th Street/Grand Avenue) 1,000,000 67% Road Use Tax
Airport Improvements 530,000
Airport Entryway Improvements 530,000 100%
2028/29 TOTAL 11,861,544
Total General Obligation Bonds 72,914,281
XIII
27
CITY-WIDE PROGRAM SUMMARY
CITY-WIDE PROGRAM SUMMARY
28
City-Wide Summary
Total Capital Improvements Plan Expenditures and Funding Sources
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures by Program:
Public Safety 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544 7
Utilities 138,437,000 36,561,000 44,969,000 15,703,000 25,949,000 15,255,000 13
Transportation 124,190,289 12,804,268 33,976,346 32,452,703 24,801,127 20,155,845 73
Culture and Recreation 28,242,127 22,352,108 2,932,859 1,123,500 939,380 894,280 113
Community Development 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 131
General Government 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 137
Total Expenditures 294,805,926 71,967,376 83,199,704 49,529,203 52,222,974 37,886,669
Funding Sources:
Debt 142,321,281 46,105,116 46,099,898 14,910,256 23,344,467 11,861,544
City 95,212,034 14,944,990 19,710,806 20,481,849 19,938,670 20,135,719
Other 57,272,611 10,917,270 17,389,000 14,137,098 8,939,837 5,889,406
Total Funding Sources 294,805,926 71,967,376 83,199,704 49,529,203 52,222,974 37,886,669
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
1 29
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan Capital Improvements Plan Expenditure Summary by Program
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures by Program
Public Safety: 7
Fire Safety 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544 8
Total Public Safety 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
Utilities: 13
Electric Services 21,910,000 4,240,000 4,525,000 5,210,000 4,910,000 3,025,000 15
Water Production/Treatment 23,491,000 906,000 6,822,000 1,454,000 10,976,000 3,333,000 38
Water Pollution Control 58,403,000 26,465,000 28,213,000 1,600,000 1,039,000 1,086,000 51
Water Distribution 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000 58
Sanitary Sewer System 8,450,000 400,000 400,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 60
Stormwater Management 11,000,000 1,850,000 2,600,000 2,000,000 2,300,000 2,250,000 63
Resource Recovery 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000 70
Total Utilities 138,437,000 36,561,000 44,969,000 15,703,000 25,949,000 15,255,000
Transportation: 73
Streets Improvements 56,105,000 4,305,000 11,775,000 16,125,000 12,775,000 11,125,000 74
Shared Use Path System 5,880,000 800,000 1,520,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000 86
Traffic Improvements 17,278,000 4,104,000 6,620,000 2,254,000 1,525,000 2,775,000 9186
Street Rehabilitation 3,150,000 630,000 530,000 580,000 580,000 830,000 98
Transit System 20,103,289 1,170,268 5,885,846 4,675,203 4,726,127 3,645,845 103
Airport 21,674,000 1,795,000 7,645,500 7,558,500 4,145,000 530,000 109
Total Transportation 124,190,289 12,804,268 33,976,346 32,452,703 24,801,127 20,155,845
2
30
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan Capital Improvements Plan Expenditure Summary By Program, continued
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures, continued:
Culture and Recreation: 113
Parks and Recreation 28,044,823 22,304,804 2,857,859 1,123,500 864,380 894,280 114
Library 47,304 47,304 - - - - 126
Cemetery 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 - 128
Total Culture and Recreation 28,242,127 22,352,108 2,932,859 1,123,500 939,380 894,280
Community Development: 131
Neighborhood Improvements 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 132
Total Community Development 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
General Government: 137
Facilities 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 138
Total General Government 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total Expenditures 294,805,926 71,967,376 83,199,704 49,529,203 52,222,974 37,886,669
3
31
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Capital Improvements Plan Funding Source Summary
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 72,914,281 18,534,116 15,692,898 14,357,256 12,468,467 11,861,544
G.O. Bonds (previously issued) 1,491,000 1,491,000 - - - -
State Revolving Fund Loans 67,916,000 26,080,000 30,407,000 553,000 10,876,000 -
Total Debt Funding 142,321,281 46,105,116 46,099,898 14,910,256 23,344,467 11,861,544
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 10,655,500 1,952,840 2,215,500 2,123,500 2,169,380 2,194,280
Road Use Tax 12,183,204 2,641,900 2,911,460 2,069,844 2,030,000 2,530,000
Electric Utility Fund 20,728,300 4,058,250 4,249,750 4,992,275 4,642,275 2,785,750
Water Utility Fund 20,188,000 2,636,000 3,843,000 3,476,000 4,075,000 6,158,000
Sewer Utility Fund 13,481,000 780,000 2,076,000 3,900,000 3,339,000 3,386,000
Stormwater Utility Fund 9,400,000 1,450,000 2,250,000 2,050,000 1,750,000 1,900,000
Resource Recovery Fund 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Transit Capital Reserve Fund 5,898,030 596,000 1,691,096 1,356,230 1,334,015 920,689
Airport Improvements Fund 600,000 155,000 115,000 25,000 305,000 -
Ice Arena Capital Reserve Fund 145,000 25,000 - 100,000 20,000 -
Total City Funding 95,212,034 14,944,990 19,710,806 20,481,849 19,938,670 20,135,719
4
32
Capital Improvements Plan Funding Source Summary, continued
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Other:
Federal/State Grants 26,060,159 3,595,268 9,223,250 5,244,373 4,397,112 3,600,156
MPO/STP Funds 11,004,000 2,934,000 1,790,000 2,400,000 1,680,000 2,200,000
Federal Aviation Administration 16,005,500 735,000 6,150,500 6,375,000 2,745,000 -
Iowa State University 681,700 131,750 225,250 117,725 117,725 89,250
Donations 2,652,571 2,652,571 - - - -
American Rescue Plan 868,681 868,681 - - - -
Total Other Funding 57,272,611 10,917,270 17,389,000 14,137,098 8,939,837 5,889,406
Total Funding Sources 294,805,926 71,967,376 83,199,704 49,529,203 52,222,974 37,886,669
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
5
33
PUBLIC SAFETY
PUBLICSAFETY
34
Public Safety
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures:
Fire Safety 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544 8
Total Expenditures 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
Total Funding Sources 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
7 35
Public Safety – Fire
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Fire Engine #2 Replacement 1,071,499 - 1,071,499 - - - 9
Station Alerting System 283,467 - - - 283,467 - 10
Fire Engine #4 1,331,544 - - - - 1,331,544 11
Total Project Expenditures 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
Total Funding Sources 2,686,510 - 1,071,499 - 283,467 1,331,544
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
8
36
Fire Apparatus Replacement Program/Fire Engine #2 Project Status: Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Fire apparatus are essential for structural firefighting. The Fire Apparatus Replacement Program ensures replacement of fire apparatus at the en d of their operational
lives. The City maintains two frontline engines (Engine 1 and Engine 2) and one ladder truck (Tower 1). The City maintains its current fleet very well, which facilitates
keeping frontline fire apparatus for a maximum of 15 years. Our goal is to then refurbish and retain those apparatus for an additional 10 years each as reserve
apparatus. Reserve apparatus are used frequently for training academies or anytime a frontline apparatus requires service, Reserve apparatus are also used during
large scale incidents by recalled firefighters, to respond to the scene or additional incidents that occur during the same time.
The current reserve apparatus is an engine purchased new in 1996. It has now reached the end of its reserve service life. Current Engine 2 is eligible for refurbishment
and would make an excellent reserve engine. It would replace the current 1996 reserve engine and add additional safety features like driver and passenger-side
airbags.
Engine 2 (purchased new in 2010) is currently in good condition but requires more maintenance and repairs as it ages. Replacement cost, including new equipment,
is $946,499. The estimated refurbishment cost for Engine 2 is $125,000.
Comments
Vehicle costs across all markets have experienced a dramatic increase due to supply chain issues and delays. Emergency vehicle buildout times have also been
increased due to these issues. The cost increase reflects the current market, which is not expected to subside anytime soon.
Location
Fire Station #2, 132 Welch Avenue (Engine 2)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Replace Engine #2 946,499 946,499
Refurbish Engine #2 for Reserve Status 125,000 125,000
Total 1,071,499 1,071,499
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,071,499 1,071,499
Total 1,071,499 1,071,499
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Public Safety - Fire Fire
9 37
Station Alerting System Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In 2008 the Ames Fire Department purchased an automatic station alerting system from Locution Systems Inc. It was installed at all three fire stations and the
City’s Public Safety Communications Center. This system also dispatches Mary Greeley Medical Center (MGMC) ambulances. The automatic station alerting
system automates the process of alerting and dispatching fire personnel and apparatus to emergency incidents. The system integrates directly into the Public
Safety Communication Center’s computer aided dispatch system, allowing 911 dispatchers to dispatch the most appropriate emergency response vehicle(s)
automatically and instantaneously. The automatic station alerting system utilizes lights, increasing volumes and wall mounted information centers throughout the
stations to alert and dispatch specific staff and units, leaving non-responding stations and units ready to respond to the next incident.
It was discovered during a planned replacement of one of the station’s automatic alerting system computers that individual dorm room wall mounted controls and
information centers would no longer function. The vendor informed us that our wall mounted controls and information centers were obsolete and would not function
within any new Windows operating versions other than Windows CE, which officially ended in 2018. The station continues to receive audio dispatches but no
longer receives the visual display of the incident address. Additionally, the 14-year-old system operates on a single network connection and does not have a
secondary backup connection with the Public Safety Communications Center. This leaves the system vulnerable to network interruptions caused by damaged fiber
during construction or even a power outage at the switching station, which could result in missed dispatches and delayed emergency response.
The cost of replacing all equipment and technology for all three fire stations and for the Ames Public Safety Communications Center with continued ability to
dispatch MGMC ambulances is estimated to be $283,467.
Comments
The current automatic station alerting system uses 14-year-old technology and equipment that will continue to lose functionality as other technology within the City
is replaced to maintain the overall integrity of the City’s emergency communications network. Replacing the current system with newer equipment and technology
will improve reliability, security, and utilization of available technology to improve overall emergency response times.
Location
Fire Station #1, 1300 Burnett Avenue, Fire Station #2, 132 Welch Avenue, Fire Station #3, 2400 South Duff Avenue,
Public Safety Communications Center, 515 Clark Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Replace Station Alerting System 283,467
Total 283,467
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 283,467
Total 283,467
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Public Safety - Fire Fire
10
283,467
283,467
283,467
283,467
38
Fire Apparatus Replacement Program/Fire Engine #4 Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Fire apparatus are essential for structural firefighting. The City maintains one frontline apparatus for each fire station. The frontline apparatus are two fire engines
and one ladder truck. The City has three fire stations, with one of the three corresponding frontline apparatus operating out of each station.
Additionally, the City maintains two reserve apparatuses, a 1996 fire engine and a 2002 recently refurbished (2023) ladder truck. Reserve apparatus are used
frequently for training academies or anytime a frontline apparatus requires service . Reserve apparatus are also used during large scale incidents by recalled
firefighters, to respond to the scene or additional incidents that occur during the same time. The City recently disposed of a third reserve apparatus, a 1989 fire
engine, that was maintained until it was no longer sustainable.
With the realization that the City will require a fourth fire station in the near future to meet the expected growth of the Ames 2040 Plan, and to address increasing
response times, it is time to start planning for the addition of a fourth frontline fire engine. Additionally, Vehicle costs across all markets have experienced a dramatic
price increase due to continued supply chain issues and delays , which is not expected to subside anytime soon. Emergency vehicle buildout times have also been
increased due to these issues and are currently averaging around 40 months from contract execution to vehicle delivery.
The purchase of a fourth fire engine is in anticipation of opening a fourth fire station. The engine purchase can be delayed or advanced as more information becomes
available. However, even if the construction of a fourth fire station is delayed, this new engine would allow the department to maintain two reserve engines.
The purchase price of a new fire engine, with like capabilities to the City’s current fire fleet and corresponding equipment necessary to place the vehicle into service
is $1,331,544.
Comments
Emergency vehicle prices continue to be volatile and are expected to increase at 6% per year over the next five years. Additionally, in January 2027, the EPA’s Low-
NOx Emissions Rule will go into effect, further regulating emissions for which emergency vehicles are non-exempt. The new EPA rule will limit diesel motor options
for fire engine manufactures and will increase the overall fire engine cost by $100,000.
Location
Future Fire Station #4
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engine #4 1,331,544 1,331,544
Total 1,331,544 1,331,544
Cost:
G.O. Bonds 1,331,544 1,331,544
Total 1,331,544 1,331,544
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Public Safety - Fire Fire
11 39
UTILITIES
UTILITIES
40
Utilities
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures
Electric Services 21,910,000 4,240,000 4,525,000 5,210,000 4,910,000 3,025,000 15
Water Production/Treatment 23,491,000 906,000 6,822,000 1,454,000 10,976,000 3,333,000 38
Water Pollution Control 58,403,000 26,465,000 28,213,000 1,600,000 1,039,000 1,086,000 51
Water Distribution 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000 58
Sanitary Sewer System 8,450,000 400,000 400,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 60
Stormwater Management 11,000,000 1,850,000 2,600,000 2,000,000 2,300,000 2,250,000 63
Resource Recovery 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000 70
Total Expenditures 138,437,000 36,561,000 44,969,000 15,703,000 25,949,000 15,255,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 600,000 - - - 600,000 -
State Revolving Fund Loans 67,916,000 26,080,000 30,407,000 553,000 10,876,000 -
Total Debt Funding 68,516,000 26,080,000 30,407,000 553,000 11,476,000 -
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
13
41
Utilities, continued
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Funding Sources, continued:
City:
Electric Utility Fund 20,728,300 4,058,250 4,249,750 4,992,275 4,642,275 2,785,750
Water Utility Fund 19,888,000 2,636,000 3,768,000 3,401,000 4,000,000 6,083,000
Sewer Utility Fund 13,181,000 780,000 2,001,000 3,825,000 3,264,000 3,311,000
Stormwater Utility Fund 9,200,000 1,450,000 2,200,000 2,000,000 1,700,000 1,850,000
Resource Recovery Fund 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Total City Funding 64,930,300 9,574,250 12,577,750 14,607,275 13,880,275 14,290,750
Other:
Federal/State Grants 4,309,000 775,000 1,759,000 425,000 475,000 875,000
Iowa State University 681,700 131,750 225,250 117,725 117,725 89,250
Total Other Funding 4,990,700 906,750 1,984,250 542,725 592,725 964,250
Total Funding Sources 138,437,000 36,561,000 44,969,000 15,703,000 25,949,000 15,255,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
14
42
Utilities - Electric Services
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Administration:
Advanced Metering Infrastructure 1,400,000 700,000 700,000 - - - 17
Electric Vehicle Infrastructure 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 18
Transmission:
69 kV Transmission Reconstruction 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 19
Distribution:
Mortensen Road Transformer Protection 2,700,000 200,000 800,000 1,700,000 - - 20
Fiber Optic Fiber Replacement 770,000 100,000 - 335,000 335,000 - 21
Streetlight and Line Relocations 950,000 250,000 250,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 22
Vet Med Substation Switchgear Upgrade 1,100,000 - - 200,000 - 900,000 23
Dayton Avenue Substation Upgrade 1,500,000 - - - 1,500,000 - 24
Production:
Power Plant Building Modifications 900,000 150,000 - 250,000 - 500,000 25
Power Plant Load Centers/Breakers 1,350,000 500,000 850,000 - - - 26
Critical Electric System Generators 600,000 600,000 - - - - 27
Power Plant Relay/Control Replacement 300,000 125,000 175,000 - - - 28
Combustion Turbine Generation Improvements 890,000 740,000 150,000 - - - 29
Turbine/Generator Minor Overhauls 150,000 150,000 - - - - 30
Turbine/Generator Major Overhauls 2,200,000 - 400,000 1,100,000 700,000 - 31
RDF Bin Renovation 300,000 - 300,000 - - - 32
Plant Controls WIFI Network 175,000 - 175,000 - - - 33
Units 5 and 6 Boiler Removal 750,000 - - 750,000 - - 34
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
15
43
Utilities - Electric Services, continued
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Production (continued):
Combustion Turbine 2 Inlet Heating 1,500,000 - - - 1,500,000 - 35
Coal Yard Reclamation 500,000 - - - - 500,000 36
Unit 8 Tube Corrosion Injection 250,000 - - - - 250,000 37
Total Project Expenditures 21,910,000 4,240,000 4,525,000 5,210,000 4,910,000 3,025,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Electric Utility Fund 20,728,300 4,058,250 4,249,750 4,992,275 4,642,275 2,785,750
Other:
Iowa State University 681,700 131,750 225,250 117,725 117,725 89,250
Federal/State Grants 500,000 50,000 50,000 100,000 150,000 150,000
Total Other Funding 1,181,700 181,750 275,250 217,725 267,725 239,250
Total Funding Sources 21,910,000 4,240,000 4,525,000 5,210,000 4,910,000 3,025,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
16
44
Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Utility’s current electric metering system does not have the functional capability to allow for modern utility activities . These include activities like load management
for energy peak reductions, outage identifications, real-time feeder and transformer studies, remote disconnection of services, and time-of-use rate design. This
project will allow for the selection of an advanced metering system and provide a multi-year activity to systematically replace customers’ meters as these new
services are implemented.
In FY 2023/24, a consultant is assessing the system needs of the utility, developing a request for proposal, and assisting in selecting an Advanced Metering
Infrastructure vendor. In FY 2023/24, the communication web will be installed at an estimated cost of $350,000. The remaining budgeted funds will be spent on new
advanced meters, allowing the City to replace over half of the existing meters. Future meters will be changed out through the next decade as part of routine
replacement in the operating budget. This meter reading system will be compatible with the system being implemented by the water utility.
Comments
2022/23 Engineering 100,000
2023/24 Materials & Software 700,000
2024/25 Materials & Software 700,000
2025/26 Materials & Software 700,000
2,200,000
Location
Various
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering/Meters 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Total 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Total 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Administration Electric Services 530-4803-489
17 45
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering/Meters 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Total 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 500,000 150,000 150,000 100,000 50,000 50,000
Grant Funding 50,000 50,000 100,000 150,000 150,000
Total 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Administration Electric Services 530-4806-489
18
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Description/Justification
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow in the coming years, Electric Services needs to continue to add charging infrastructure.
There are 3 levels of EV charging:
•Level 1 charging operates at 120V AC, supplying between 1.2 – 1.8 kW. This is the level provided by a standard household outlet and can provide
approximately 40–50 miles of range overnight.
•Level 2 charging operates at 240V AC, supplying between 3.6 – 22 kW. This level includes charging stations that are commonly installed in homes,
workplaces, and public locations and can provide approximately 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
•Level 3 (or DC Fast Charger for our purposes) operates between 400 – 1000V AC, supplying 50 kW and above. DC Fast Chargers, which are generally only
available in public locations, can typically charge a vehicle to 80% in approximately 20-30 minutes.
This project is for the addition of at least two Level 2 and one DC Fast charger within the Ames community in each of the years over the five-year period. The project
assumes grant funding will increase in the latter years.
Comments
This investment into this project is being decreased with the advent of grant money available and with private infrastructure development in the later years.
Location
Various locations are being considered such as 13th Street and I-35 or Hwy 30/South Dakota for DC Fast Chargers; and near the mall, Main Street, and South Duff
movie theaters for Level 2 chargers.
46
69kV Transmission Reconstruction Project Status: Cost Increase City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This multi-year project will reconstruct deteriorated portions of 69kV transmission pole lines. This project will replace between one and two line-miles of 69kV
transmission line each year. The actual length and cost per mile will vary by terrain, accessibility , and attachments.
Comments
Line replacement candidates include the original MidAmerican 69kV tie line that connects the Ames Plant switchyard to the MidAmerican 69kV source point
located south of Ames on Highway 69, the Ames Plant to the Top-O-Hollow line, the Top-O-Hollow line to the Stange Road Substation line, and the Vet Med line to
the Mortensen Road Substation line. The total project will require at least five years and will reconstruct approximately 11 miles of deteriorated 69kV line.
Capacity and reliability improvements will include the reconstruction of distribution lines that are underbuilt on existing transmission lines and/or adding new
distribution under-build along the same construction route line. Iowa State University’s share of the project is based on a load -ratio-share at the time of
implementation. For budgetary purposes, staff assumes the ISU load-ratio-share to be 17%.
Location
Various locations
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 125,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000
Construction 2,500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000
Total 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 2,178,750 435,750 435,750 435,750 435,750 435,750
Iowa State University 446,250 89,250 89,250 89,250 89,250 89,250
Total 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Transmission Electric Services 530-4856-489
19 47
Mortensen Road Substation 69kV Transformer Protection Project Status: Cost Increase Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project is for the addition of a 69kV breaker, relays, and controls to replace the fuse protection on this distribution transformer. It also includes the replacement
of two obsolete oil circuit breakers with low-maintenance gas breakers, replacing the existing transformer with 25% more capacity, and installing perimeter security
enhancements to the substation.
Comments
The use of gas breakers for transformer protection is consistent with recommended engineering practices in the electric utility industry and will minimize damage to
the transformer and surrounding facilities while providing better worker safety in the event of a fault. They will also reduce maintenance and provide fast, reliable
operation.
Iowa State University’s (ISU) share of the project is based on a load -ratio-share at the time of implementation. For budgetary purposes, staff assumes the ISU
load-ratio-share to be 17% of the 69 kV-related costs (excluding the distribution transformer).
The project has been delayed two years because of long lead times, and the budgeted amount has been increased by $1,200,000 because materials have
doubled in cost since first forecasting this project, and additional funds are needed to move the existing 69kV bus structures to accommodate the future addition of
a second transformer. The transformer replacement is needed for additional capacity to serve load growth in the vicinity of Mortensen Avenue and South Dakota
Avenue.
Location
Mortensen Road Substation, 3040 Mortensen Road
2023/24 Engineering 150,000
2024/25 Engineering 200,000
2025/26 Materials & Construction 800,000
2026/27 Materials & Construction 1,700,000
2,850,000
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 200,000 200,000
Construction 2,500,000 800,000 1,700,000
Total 2,700,000 200,000 800,000 1,700,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 2,530,000 166,000 664,000 1,700,000
Iowa State University 170,000 34,000 136,000
Total 2,700,000 200,000 800,000 1,700,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Distribution Electric Services 530-4824-489
20
48
Fiber Optic Hardware Replacement Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In 2006, Electric Services installed a fiber optic network to provide communications to its substations to support protection functions and provide Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisition (SCADA) communications to all substations. The electronic communication hardware is reaching the end of its useful life and there is limited
availability of replacement parts for the original system components. While the current system is growing obsolete, advanceme nts in fiber optic communication
equipment offers operational and security enhancements. Additionally, it is important for the system replacements to be coordinated to avoid incompatibilities
between old and new hardware system components. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the hardware components entirely, rather than simply piece-meal the
upgrade. This replacement requires an engineering effort to plan the upgrade and to specify and procure the hardware and inst allation services.
Comments
Iowa State University shares in the cost of transmission expenses. ISU’s projected share of transmission -only costs is approximately 17%, ISU’s share for this project
will be half of that, as the fiberoptic hardware system is utilized for both transmission and distribution functions. ISU’s share of this project is therefore estimated to
be 8.5% for it’s share of the transmission system.
Location
Various (Substations, Power Plant)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 170,000 100,000 35,000 35,000
Construction 600,000 300,000 300,000
Total 770,000 100,000 335,000 335,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 704,550 91,500 306,525 306,525
Iowa State University 65,450 8,500 28,475 28,475
Total 770,000 100,000 335,000 335,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Distribution Electric Services 530-4849-489
21 49
Streetlight and Line Relocations Project Status: Cost Decrease City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This work is coordinated with Public Works street improvement projects that require the relocation of various electric facilities, including streetlights, services, and
distribution lines. Locations for streetlight and line relocations will be coordinated each year with Public Works street improvement projects.
Comments
The overall five-year cost is lower compared to the previous CIP, given the availability of money carried over from the previous years.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 950,000 250,000 250,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Total 950,000 250,000 250,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 950,000 250,000 250,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Total 950,000 250,000 250,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Distribution Electric Services 530-4823-489
22
50
Vet Med Substation Switchgear Replacement Project Status: Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will replace the original 13.8kV metal-clad distribution switchgear at the Vet Med Substation. The Vet Med substation expansion in 2011 installed two
new transformers and switchgear, but the metal-clad switchgear was not upgraded at that time. This project will replace the metal-clad switchgear to add a main
breaker and update older existing relays to current standards. The original “stacked” formation switchgear will be replaced with a much safer “single-level”
arrangement.
Comments
The addition of a main breaker will improve safety for workers and improve system reliability. The use of low-maintenance breakers and relays will provide
protection that operates quickly and selectively. These upgrades are consistent with electric utility industry engineering practices.
This project is delayed due to the long lead time to order materials.
Location
Vet Med Substation, South Riverside Drive
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 200,000 200,000
Construction 900,000 900,000
Total 1,100,000 200,000 900,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 1,100,000 200,000 900,000
Total 1,100,000 200,000 900,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Distribution Electric Services
23 51
Dayton Avenue Substation Switchgear Upgrades Project Status: Cost Increase Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will upgrade two existing 13.8kV distribution metal-clad switchgear lineups at the Dayton Avenue Substation. The oldest switchgear has obsolete air
blast breakers, no main breaker, and electro-mechanical relays. This switchgear needs to be replaced with all new switchgear with vacuum interrupter breakers, a
main breaker, and microprocessor relays. The second switchgear has vacuum interrupter feeder breakers, which do not need to be replaced, but has no main
breaker and uses older style relays. This project will provide for the addition of a main breaker and replacement of existing distribution relays with modern,
microprocessor-based relays.
Comments
These upgrades are consistent with recommended electric utility industry engineering practices. The addition of a main breaker will improve safety for workers and
improve system reliability using low-maintenance breakers and relays.
The project has been delayed three years because of long lead times, and the budgeted amount has been increased by $400,000 because materials have
doubled in cost since first forecasting this project.
2023/24 Engineering 250,000
2027/28 Materials & Construction 1,500,000
1,750,000
Location
Dayton Avenue Substation, Pullman Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 1,500,000 1,500,000
Total 1,500,000 1,500,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 1,500,000 1,500,000
Total 1,500,000 1,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Distribution Electric Services
24
52
Power Plant Building Modifications Project Status: Cost Change Project Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will bring much-needed improvements to the Power Plant. The Power Plant is a historic City structure that has gone through several changes over the
last 50 years. Several of the Power Plant roofs are in poor repair and need to be replaced. The windows on the first floor, the front entrance, and the restrooms need
to be replaced, and the plant is not as accessible as a modern plant would be. This multi-year project is to make the building more energy efficient, meet current
building requirements, install security features , and provide needed updates.
Comments
The front entrance remodel will provide a more secure Power Plant where all visitors will be able to speak with someone in person, use the restroom, and have an
area to wait for City staff, all while being in an area that does not provide access to the plant. The restroom remodel project will provide five separate restrooms that
will be gender-neutral. This will make it much easier for an employee, contractor, or visitor of any gender to use the facilities at the Power Plant. This project has
been bid twice and both times had only one bidder at a higher price than what was budgeted. $150,000 was added to the remodel portion of this project to adjust
to increased labor and material costs.
The window replacement project has been moved to FY 2026/27, and the improved building access project has been delayed to FY 2028/29.
2023/24
2024/25
Remodel entrance and front restrooms (400,000)
Completion of the front entrance and restrooms ($150,000)
2026/27
2028/29
Replace windows on the first floor ($250,000)
Improved building access ($500,000)
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost
Engineering 50,000 75,000
Construction 200,000 425,000
Total 250,000 500,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 900,000 150,000 250,000 500,000
Total 900,000 150,000 250,000 500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4871-489
25
125,000
775,000 150,000
900,000 150,000
53
Power Plant Load Centers and Breaker Replacement Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The seven load centers (breakers and cabinets) in the Power Plant are used to take power off the generator bus bar and distribute it out to the different equipment
in the plant. The active load centers are original and are built for old, outdated breakers. The load centers do not currently have up -to-date equipment built in that
would allow them to be operated more efficiently. This project involves consolidating seven load centers into six over a three-year period.
Comments
The existing 4160-volt breakers are old and outdated, making it very difficult to find replacement parts and maintain a reliable electric sourc e.
2023/24 Design and start of construction ($500,000)
2024/25 Consolidation of three load centers into two ($500,000)
2025/26 Four load centers and breakers ($850,000)
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Materials/Parts 1,350,000 500,000 850,000
Total 1,350,000 500,000 850,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 1,350,000 500,000 850,000
Total 1,350,000 500,000 850,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Administration Electric Services 530-4855-489
26
54
Critical Electric System Generators Project Status: Delayed Cost Increase City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The August 2020 derecho event illustrated that, although battery systems are in place at the Power Plant, a more robust backup system supporting critical systems
in the Power Plant is vital. This project will involve the installation of a diesel generator that, under blackout conditions, will continually support the Distributed Control
System (DCS), the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, and the emergency oil pumps on both steam turbine generators at the Power Plant.
Comments
Staff has added $600,000 to this project in FY 2024/25. After receiving an engineer’s estimate, staff found the project more costly than originally thought. Staff is
pursuing FEMA grants to help with a large portion of this project and reduce the project total.
2023/24 $608,357
2024/25 600,000
$1,208,357
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Combustion Turbine Site, 2300 Pullman Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Materials/Parts 500,000 500,000
Construction 100,000 100,000
Engineering
Total 600,000 600,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 600,000 600,000
Total 600,000 600,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4859-489
27 55
Power Plant Relay/Control Replacement Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will replace existing electro-mechanical 13.8kV feeders and 4.160kV bus differential relays in the Power Plant. The existing relays are obsolete
electro-mechanical devices which are becoming difficult to maintain and repair since replacement parts are no longer manufactured. By installing modern
programmable relays and updated controls in this location , long-term reliability can be improved by eliminating the obsolete, maintenance-intensive, electro-
mechanical relays. This project will likely take three years to complete.
Comments
These upgrades are consistent with recommended electric utility industry engineering practices.
FY 2023/24 Engineering $125,000
FY 2024/25 Construction $125,000
FY 2025/26 Construction $175,000
$425,000
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 300,000 125,000 175,000
Total 300,000 125,000 175,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 300,000 125,000 175,000
Total 300,000 125,000 175,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4862-489
28
56
Combustion Turbine Generation Improvements Project Status: Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The program includes three distinct projects.
Project #1: The current outdated controls on Combustion Turbine #1 (CT1) need to be replaced with updated controls. The original controls were upgraded
in 2007 but have several components that are now obsolete and no longer supported by the Original Equipment Manufacturer .
Project #2: The current remote terminal unit, meters, and protective relays are original to the 1972 unit and must be updated with more modern equipment.
Project #3: There are currently multiple small enclosures housing different auxiliary equipment at the Combustion Turbine site. These enc losures are
outfitted with individual unit heaters to keep equipment from reaching freezing temperatures. There is also piping between th e enclosures that are heat
heat-traced to prevent them from freezing. If one of the enclosure heaters malfunctions and the temperature drops below freezing, equipme nt will be
damaged and require costly repairs or replacement. Keeping all of the individual heating systems maintained and constantly mo nitoring the climate status
has proved difficult, especially since the unit is located at a remote site from the main power plant. In order to remove most of this risk, an i nsulated
weather protection building will be erected that will enclose this equipment and be heated to maintain a proper climate.
Comments
FY 2024/25 costs are a result of a delay in the project timeline. The first two projects of the program have been combined to save on engineering and construction
costs.
2023/24 Engineering and beginning construction for projects #1 and #2 - Replace outdated controls on Combustion Turbine #2 ($750,000)
2024/25 Construction of Projects #1 and #2 - Replace remote terminal unit, meters, and protective relays ($140,000); replace outdated controls on CT
#1 ($400,000) and CT #2 ($200,000)
2025/26 Project #3 Install combustion turbine weather protection ($150,000)
The total project cost is projected to be $1,640,000.
Location
Combustion Turbine Site, 2300 Pullman Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering/Design/Construction 890,000 740,000 150,000
Total 890,000 740,000 150,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 890,000 740,000 150,000
Total 890,000 740,000 150,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4890-489
29 57
Turbine/Generator Minor Overhauls Project Status: Cost Decrease Project Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
It is standard in the electric generation industry to perform a major overhaul on turbines and generators every 7-8 years. In order to continue performing well during
that time period, a minor overhaul is performed every 3-4 years. The minor overhaul consists of inspecting and cleaning the main stop valve, control valves, and
bearings. This inspection insures proper operation of these critical components.
Comments
Traditionally, the City’s Power Plant has not performed a minor inspection on either Unit 7 or Unit 8. That is because the time between major inspections has
previously been about 5 years. Staff would now like to increase this time between major inspections to 7-8 years.
The frequency of this project is directly related to the Unit 7 & 8 Turbine -Generator Major Overhaul project shown on a separate CIP page.
Unit 8 turbine rotor blading, bearings, and control valves were all cleaned and inspected in 2023, satisfying the work of a Minor Overhaul.
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Turbine Overhaul 100,000 100,000
GE Tech Support 50,000 50,000
Total 150,000 150,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 150,000 150,000
Total 150,000 150,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4894-489
30
58
Turbine/Generator Major Overhauls Project Status: Cost Decrease City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Unit 7 and Unit 8 turbine-generators will be disassembled, inspected, and repaired as necessary after 7-8 years of cyclical operation. This work is required to
replace worn parts, as well as to inspect the turbine and generator for repairs that may be needed to prevent unplanned downtime. The timeframe for these
overhauls is recommended by the turbine manufacturer and follows accepted industry standards.
Comments
Because of the limited time to perform the work, spare parts must be ordered and delivered before the work begins. The parts ordered are either high wear parts
or have been suggested for replacement from previous overhauls when the next major overhaul is performed. These parts are very specialized and can have very
long lead times requiring them to be ordered up to a year in advance. The frequency of this project is directly related to the Turbine/Generator Minor Overhaul s
project shown on a separate CIP page.
The total amount for Unit 8 Major Overhaul was reduced from $1,300,000 to $1,100,000 because some parts were replaced during the summer of 2023 when the
rotor was sent to a turbine shop for repairs to the blading.
Unit 7: Unit 8:
2025/26 Materials/Parts 400,000 2026/27 Materials/Parts 400,000
2026/27 Labor 700,000 2027/28 Labor 700,000
1,100,000 1,100,000
Location
Power Plant, 200 East 5th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 800,000 400,000 400,000
Construction 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Total 2,200,000 400,000 1,100,000 700,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 2,200,000 400,000 1,100,000 700,000
Total 2,200,000 400,000 1,100,000 700,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
31 59
RDF Bin Renovation Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Several drives at the City’s Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) bin are operated by direct current (DC). These DC drives have limitations for control and are expensive to
maintain. Current plans are to replace the DC drives with alternating current (AC) drives.
Comments
The City is currently researching waste alternatives, which could impact how the RDF bin will be utilized over the next ten to twenty years. As additional information
is learned, the priority of the RDF Bin Renovation project may change as other alternatives are found.
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 300,000 300,000
Total 300,000 300,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 300,000 300,000
Total 300,000 300,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
32
60
Plant Controls Wi-Fi Network Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Each time a component is installed in the field, it needs to be connected to the Power Plant’s Distributed Controls System (DCS). The current approach requires the
installation and connection of conduit and hard wiring. This takes a tremendous amount of time and space when considering adding additional components in the
field.
This project will install a secured wireless network that will only be used to retrieve operational data from the field, bringing it into the DCS without having to run
conduit or wiring. The network will also be capable of quickly adding additional components in the future. This wireless netw ork will only be used for retrieving data
and will not be used to output any control commands.
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Materials/Parts 175,000 175,000
Total 175,000 175,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 175,000 175,000
Total 175,000 175,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
33 61
Units 5 And 6 Boiler Removal Project Status: Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Power Plant houses two operational generating units , Units 7 and 8. Units 5 and 6 are much older and were decommissioned in 1986. This project is to remove
the Unit 5 and Unit 6 boilers.
Comments
These boilers are outdated and are unusable in their current condition. The area that will become available because of this project can be used to provide expanded
maintenance shop space or could serve as the boiler site if a Waste-to-Energy Plant moves forward.
The turbine/generators will not be removed as part of this project unless the possibility of repurposing one or both of the turbine/generators for a new Waste-to-
Energy plant is ruled out.
The funds for this project were moved from FY 2024/25 to FY 2026/27 because of the need to prioritize other projects.
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 50,000 50,000
Demolition 700,000 700,000
Total 750,000 750,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 750,000 750,000
Total 750,000 750,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services 530-4854-489
34
62
Combustion Turbine 2 Inlet Heating Project Status: Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project is to install a system that will heat the air used for combustion in CT2 turbine.
The turbine design requires the air to be compressed to a high pressure before it is combusted. During cold weather, the high pressures can cause water vapor in
the air to turn to ice and damage the compressor blades of the turbine. Currently, to avoid ice damage, the turbine is not able to be operated when outside
temperatures are below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This removes the combustion turbine as an emergency backup for a large portion of the winter season. Installing
heaters on the intake system will provide the ability to heat the air stream going into the turbine, avoiding icing conditions, thus making the turbine available for
year-round service.
Comments
This project is being driven by changes made by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which allow the Utility to benefit from a unit that can
operate in the winter. However, staff has determined it best to delay the project because the winter capacity gained from this Unit by performing this project is
anticipated not to be needed until FY 2027/28.
Location
Combustion Turbine site, 2300 Pullman Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 50,000 50,000
Construction 1,450,000 1,450,000
Total 1,500,000 1,500,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 1,500,000 1,500,000
Total 1,500,000 1,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
35 63
Coal Yard Reclamation Project Status: Delayed Scope Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In spring 2016, the Power Plant was converted from coal-fired to natural gas-fired generation. This project is to reclaim the old coal yard, demolishing the existing
equipment and associated buildings, removing two underground fuel oil tanks, scraping the residual coal that is still on the site, and filling in the retention basins.
Comments
The coal handling equipment must stay in place throughout the time the Power Plant is burning Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) to meet regulatory requirements.
Therefore, this project will be performed in two phases:
Phase 1) Remove the Underground fuel oil tanks, scrape the surface to remove existing coal, and fill in the retention basins . ($250,000)
Phase 2) Remove the coal handling equipment and associated buildings. ($500,000)
Phase 1 has been accelerated from prior CIPs to enable this property to be repurposed for potential use for a yet to be determined solid waste handling system,
without an undue delay.
2023/24 Phase 1 250,000
2028/29 Phase 2 500,000
750,000
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 50,000 50,000
Construction 450,000 450,000
Total 500,000 500,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 500,000 500,000
Total 500,000 500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
36
64
Unit 8 Tube Corrosion Injection Project Status: Delayed City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Unit 8 superheater tubes previously suffered from severe corrosion caused by the combustion environment created when burning Refuse Derived Fuel with
natural gas. Those tubes have now been replaced with tubes having an Inconel coating on them to protect them from this corrosive environment. Staff expects this
coating to greatly increase the life span of these tubes. However, the harsh environment created by mixing these two fuels still exists. Continuing to reduce this
corrosive environment will increase the tube life span even further.
This project involves the engineering, materials, and labor to install a chemical injection into the gas stream of the boiler. This will hopefully modify the chemical
reaction occurring in the boiler, moderating the caustic environment, and further preventing corrosion of the boiler tubes.
Comments
This funding is being delayed from FY 2024/25 to FY 2028/29 so staff can first determine if burning RDF in the Power Plant remains the long-term solution to
handle the county's waste.
Location
Power Plant, 200 East Fifth Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Materials/Parts 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Financing:
Electric Utility Fund 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Electric Production Electric Services
37 65
Utilities - Water Production/Treatment
Technical Services Complex Addition 4,487,000 320,000 - - -
Water Plant Facility Improvements 1,907,000 181,000 230,000 - 303,000
Lime Lagoon Improvements 283,000 283,000 - - -
Advanced Metering Infrastructure 99,000 99,000 - - -
Ada Hayden Water Quality Study 23,000 23,000 - - -
Well Field Standby Power 1,273,000 - - - -
SAM Pump Station Improvements 124,000 - - - -
Physical/Cyber Security Improvements 260,000 - - - 195,000
Prairie View Industrial Center Elevated Tank 11,429,000 - 553,000 10,876,000 -
Wellhead Rehabilitation 771,000 - 671,000 100,000 -
Water Treatment Plant Pumps/Drives 1,474,000 - - - 1,474,000
MAC Elevated Tank Repainting 1,361,000 - - - 1,361,000
Total Project Expenditures 23,491,000 906,000 1,454,000 10,976,000 3,333,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
State Revolving Fund Loans 15,916,000 320,000 553,000 10,876,000 -
City:
Water Utility Fund 6,591,000 586,000 901,000 100,000 3,333,000
Other:
Federal/State Grants 984,000 - - - -
Total Funding Sources 23,491,000 906,000 1,454,000 10,976,000 3,333,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Page
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
38
4,167,000
1,193,000
-
-
-
1,273,000
124,000
65,000
-
-
-
-
6,822,000
4,167,000
1,671,000
984,000
6,822,000
66
Technical Services Complex Addition Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will renovate the interior of the Technical Services Complex (TSC) and add additional square footage. The renovation will include: converting the small
first floor conference room into an office and storage area; converting the old kitchenette into a first aid/lactation room; replacing damaged and stained ceiling tiles
in the laboratory; and a general refresh of flooring and wall coverings throughout the building. The addition will include: a new conference room space; new restrooms
and kitchenette, garage/storage space for the Laboratory Services and Water Meter Divisions; and an elevator.
Comments
The Technical Services Complex, which houses the Water Meter Division on the first floor and the Laboratory Services Division on the second floor, was cons tructed
in 1990. The reconfiguration of the building along with new space will allow the building to continue to meet the needs of the two divisions for another generation.
The addition will be within the footprint of the recently demolished old Water Treatment Plant.
This project originally appeared in the FY 2022-2027 CIP, but was deleted when costs on other projects were increasing dramatically. Now that prices appear to be
moderating, this important project has been reinstated. It will be funded using a Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DW SRF) loan. The debt service on the loa n
would be repaid equally from the Water Fund and the Sewer Fund.
Location
300 East 5th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 487,000 320,000 167,000
Construction 4,000,000 4,000,000
Total 4,487,000 320,000 4,167,000
Financing:
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund 4,487,000 320,000 4,167,000
Total 4,487,000 320,000 4,167,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Meter / Laboratory Services Water and Pollution Control
39 67
Water Plant Facility Improvements Project Status: Cost Change Scope Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project involves annual equipment repairs, major maintenance activities, replacement, and upgrades at the City’s Water Treatment Plant, Technical Services
Complex (TSC), and associated remote facilities such as wells, elevated tanks, and booster pump stations. Each of the identified items are stand-alone projects.
The cost and scope will vary from year to year as old projects are completed and new projects are added.
Comments
The schedule for these improvements is as follows:
2024/25 Add a variable frequency drive (VFD) on High Service Pump D ($61,000); install chlorine analyzers in distribution system ($48,000); old high
service pump station pipe coatings and hardware replacement ($72,000)
2025/26 Upsize High Service Pump Station connection to distribution system ($240,000); add third slaker ($873,000); addition or replacement of
Distribution System Monitoring Network ($80,000)
2026/27 Minor routine maintenance on switchgear at Water Treatment Plant and the Old High Service Pump Station ($85,000); clean both ground storage
reservoirs at old plant site ($145,000)
2028/29 Replace Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) servers and Wonderware software ($221,000); addition or replacement of
Distribution System Monitoring Network ($82,000)
Location
Technical Services Complex, 300 East 5th Street and Water Treatment Plant, 1800 East 13th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 137,000 122,000 15,000
Construction 1,770,000 181,000 1,071,000 215,000 303,000
Total 1,907,000 181,000 1,193,000 230,000 303,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 1,907,000 181,000 1,193,000 230,000 303,000
Total 1,907,000 181,000 1,193,000 230,000 303,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Treatment Water and Pollution Control Various
40
68
Lime Lagoon Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program includes major maintenance to the lime lagoons, as well as periodic improvements to increase available working capacity.
Comments
Lime residuals from the water softening process are stored and dewatered in large storage lagoons. The material is removed an nually in the fall and recycled by
applying it to farm fields as an agricultural liming agent. The cost of the annual removal and application is budgeted in the operating budget.
The project planned in FY 2024/25 will rebuild the trench drain in the bottom of two of the oldest cells. These drains aid in the dewatering process. Over time, they
have plugged with fine lime particles and have been damaged due to the excavation of lime from the cells using a backhoe. The purchase of a replacement decant
pump ($61,000) is also planned for FY 2024/25.
FY 2024/25 Underdrain replacements in existing cells ($222,000); replace existing decant pump ($61,000)
Construction of the new lime storage cell shown in last year’s CIP has been deleted after a study showed that sufficient capacity exists to carry the Water Plant’s
needs for the next ten years.
Operating Budget Impact
The modifications will result in improved dewatering of the lime sludge before it is hauled off for disposal. Because that w ork is bid on a “wet ton” basis, this project
is expected to reduce the annual operating budget expense for sludge disposal.
Location
Water Plant lime lagoons, south of East 13th Street, west of the Skunk River
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 222,000 222,000
Equipment 61,000 61,000
Total 283,000 283,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 283,000 283,000
Total 283,000 283,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Treatment Water and Pollution Control 510-3951-489
41 69
Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project Status: Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is a multi-year project to convert the water meter reading system from the existing generator/remote technology to the current industry standard of Automated
Meter Reading / Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMR/AMI). While the project includes water meter reading only, the system being implemented can be expanded
to accommodate electric meters as well.
Comments
The water meter reading system installed prior to 2014 was a mechanical system that transmits the meter reading from the water meter (located inside the property)
to a remote register on the outside of the property using a low-voltage cable. This technology is obsolete and is no longer available. A cross-departmental team
evaluated multiple technology platforms utilizing various combinations of “walk -by” or “drive-by” reads, radio reads, cellular reads, and other methods of obtaining
meter readings. The team concluded that an AMR walk-by or drive-by system would be the most cost-effective short-term solution to replace the old technology.
The City has entered into contracts with Itron, Inc. to provide the radio read system, reading equipment, and software; and with Badger Meter, Inc. to provide water
meters for this project. This system is capable of being upgraded to a more sophisticated AMI system in the future. An AMI system would provide even more detailed
data collection and could allow meter reading from the office without the need to send a meter reader out into the field.
The cost to replace 1,800 meters per year is budgeted in the Water Meter Division’s operating budget (200 meters for new construction and 1,600 for routine meter
replacement). In order to complete the conversion in a reasonable amount of time, t he cost for an additional 500 replacements has been included as a part of this
CIP project for the past several years. This is the final year the project will appear in the CIP. Any remaining meter changes will be covered through the operating
budget. The cost change is due to updated pricing for meters, resulting in a slightly lower cost ($22.00 less per meter) than was estimated last year.
Location
City-wide
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Equipment 99,000 99,000
Total 99,000 99,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 99,000 99,000
Total 99,000 99,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Meter Water and Pollution Control 510-3947-489
42
70
Ada Hayden Water Quality Study Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Since the mid-1970s, the lakes at Ada Hayden Park have been used by the Ames Water Plant as a source for augmenting alluvial groundwater recharge during
periods of low flows in the South Skunk River. In addition to the drinking water use, the lakes are a defining feature of Ada Hayden Heritage Park, providing a wide
array of water-oriented recreational opportunities for the community. This project is part of an on -going effort to monitor the health of the lakes as development
occurs in and around the lakes’ watershed. In addition to being a valuable tool for City staff, the continued monitoring of the lakes and wetland complexes is of
interest to many members of the community.
Comments
A preliminary water quality evaluation was made in 2000 as part of the City’s “due diligence” effort prior to purchasing the former Hallett’s Quarry property. This
evaluation focused primarily on potential contamination of the lakes that could have resulted from the former industrial use of the property. Follow-up investigations
were performed in FY 2004/05, FY 2009/10, and again in FY 2017/18. These latter investigations were focused on the overall “health” and water quality in the
lakes, looking at parameters such as dissolved oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus, algae and microcystins, suspended solids and turbidity, and bacteria.
As the watershed has developed, the City has made efforts to encourage land use practices that will not have a negative impac t on water quality in the lakes. The
long-term intent behind the monitoring effort has been to periodically recheck the lakes (on a five- to seven-year interval) to confirm that the existing land practices
have been effective in preserving the in-lake water quality. The intent of this project is to conduct a new monitoring event every five years. The current round of
monitoring began in the summer of 2023 and will continue during the summer of 2024.
Location
Ada Hayden Heritage Park
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Contracted Monitoring 23,000 23,000
Total 23,000 23,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 23,000 23,000
Total 23,000 23,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Production Water and Pollution Control 510-3901-489
43 71
Well Field Standby Power Project Status: Delayed Cost Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will provide standby electrical power to select wells in the Hunziker Youth Sports Complex. Iowa’s Water Supply Design Standards require that a water
system have redundant electrical power available. Installing standby power for critical remote sites was one of the recommend ations contained in the utility’s 2020
Physical Security Assessment conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Comments
The wells located in the Hunziker Youth Sports Complex are among the highest capacity wells in the City’s inventory. Installi ng standby power to at least some of
these five wells would allow the water utility to continue to produce treated water, at a redu ced capacity, in the event of a prolonged power outage. As future well
fields are developed, standby power will become a standard design element. This includes the North River Valley Well Field currently under construction, which will
have the ability to be fed by the emergency generator at the Water Treatment Plant.
This project was originally included in the FY 2021/22 CIP. It has been in the review process at the state and federal level since January 2022. The funding has
been carried over into the FY 2023/24 amended budget. Delays in the grant approval process, along with the anticipated lengthy delivery time on the generator,
have led staff to remove the funds from the FY 2023/24 budget and reprogram them for FY 2025/26 to better align with the expected timing of the work . The costs
have been updated to account for the delay in the procurement process.
Location
Hunziker Youth Sports Complex
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 171,000 171,000
Construction 1,102,000 1,102,000
Total 1,273,000 1,273,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 289,000 289,000
Hazard Mitigation Grant - Federal 885,600 885,600
Hazard Mitigation Grant - State 98,400 98,400
Total 1,273,000 1,273,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Production Water and Pollution Control
44
72
State and Mortensen Pump Station Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will install variable frequency drives (VFD’s) and associated controls equipment and programming to two of the existing pumps at the booster pump
station located at State Avenue and Mortensen Road (SAM).
Comments
In 2003, the City’s water distribution system was split into two separate pressure zones to accommodate growth in the west and southwest portions of the city. To
provide increased pressure to the new western pressure zone, a booster pump station was built at the intersection of State Av enue and Mortensen Road.
When pumps are suddenly started or stopped it causes a change in the water distribution system pressure. The rapid pressure s wings contribute to rusty water
calls and, if severe enough, can cause water main breaks. By installing a VFD (FY 2025/26, $124,000) on a pump, the pump speed can be slowly ramped up or
down, thereby dampening the pressure swings. It also allows the pump to be run at less than its full speed, allowing the ope rators to more closely match the
demand from customers.
Initially only three pumps were installed in the station, with accommodations for a fourth future pump. As growth in that are a continues to increase, a fourth pump
will eventually be required. The fourth pump is currently programmed in FY 2031/32 but could be accelerated depending on changes in demand in the west
pressure zone.
Location
Intersection of State Avenue and Mortensen Road
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 124,000
Total 124,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 124,000
Total 124,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Pumping Water and Pollution Control
45
124,000
124,000
124,000
124,000
73
Physical and Cyber Security Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Maintaining the security of the water system is an extremely high priority. As evidenced by numerous breaches at utilities around the country, as well as repeated
assertions by foreign bad actors that utilities are a preferred target, continuous upgrades and improvements are essential to stay ahead of threats .
Comments
Cyber protection projects are performed in coordination with the City’s Information Technology staff.
2025/26 Security fencing at State and Mortensen Pump Station and Elevated Tank ($65,000)
2028/29 Upgrade to the Water Treatment Plant access control system ($195,000)
Location
Various locations
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 260,000 65,000 195,000
Total 260,000 65,000 195,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 260,000 65,000 195,000
Total 260,000 65,000 195,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Treatment Water and Pollution Control Various
46
74
Prairie View Industrial Center Elevated Tank Project Status: Cost Change Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project involves the construction of a new one-million-gallon elevated tank (“water tower”) to serve the Prairie View Industrial Center along Lincoln Way east
of Interstate 35.
Comments
In order to meet the anticipated water demands in this new area in east Ames, a new elevated tank is required. The tank will help stabilize pressures at the far
eastern edge of the City limits, as well as provide the necessary volume for firefighting purposes in what is envisioned as a moderate to heavy indust rial area.
The project schedule has been delayed by one year compared to last year’s CIP, and the schedule can continue to be adjusted as needed to meet the pace of
development in the industrial park. Cost estimates were updated in September 2023 to reflect regional increases in the manufacturer’s base costs. The hydraulic
model of the distribution system will be updated as development in the industrial park unfolds to determine when the tank will be required.
Location
Intersection of East Lincoln Way and 580th Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 553,000 553,000
Construction 10,876,000 10,876,000
Total 11,429,000 553,000 10,876,000
Financing:
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund 11,429,000 553,000 10,876,000
Total 11,429,000 553,000 10,876,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Pumping Water and Pollution Control
47 75
Wellhead Rehabilitation Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The City currently has 22 wells, with three new wells under construction. This project involves periodic rehabilitation of the aboveground components of the
wellheads. A new scope item has been identified to add a variable frequency drive to Well 22.
Comments
A project was completed in FY 2019/20 that replaced the programmable logic controllers (PLC), segregated the electrical components into separate low and high
voltage cabinets, and sandblasted and repainted the aboveground wellheads in 10 wells. A separate project in FY 2021/22 replaced the PLC’s and radios in the
other 12 wells but did not include the repainting or electrical component segregation.
The FY 2026/27 project will repaint the wellheads and separate the electrical components into high and low voltage cabinets for the 12 wells that were not included
in the FY 2019/20 project.
A prior scope item to replace the well meters has been deleted from this project. Instead, a few meters will be replaced each fiscal year out of the operating
budget. A new scope item has been added in FY 2027/28 to install a variable frequency drive on Well 22, allowing the plant operators greater control over the
volume of water brought into the treatment plant. With the ability to vary the output of Well 22, the operators can better optimize the multiple factors used to
determine which well combinations to use at any given time.
Ongoing PLC replacements are scheduled every 10 years, although the schedule may be adjusted depending on replacement parts availability and technology
advancements.
Location
Wells located in multiple well fields
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 16,000 16,000
Construction 755,000 671,000 84,000
Total 771,000 671,000 100,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 771,000 671,000 100,000
Total 771,000 671,000 100,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Production Water and Pollution Control
48
76
New Pumps and Drives at Water Treatment Plant Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project will add two new high service pumps with variable frequency drives to the pump station located at the Water Treatment Plant.
Comments
The Water Treatment Plant was designed to accommodate up to six h igh service pumps. Only two pumps were installed initially due to piping restrictions on East
13th Street. Over time, the distribution mains on East 13th are planned to be upsized. As that work occurs, new pumps will be added to the pump station. Ultimately,
the pumping capacity at the Water Treatment Plant will be increased to mirror the capacity at the pump station located at the site of the old water treatment plant.
Without a specialized drive, the pumps would either run at full speed, or be off. The new pumps will be equipped with variable frequency drives that allow the pumps
to be slowed down below their maximum speed. This enables the operators to better match the water demand by customers . It also allows pumps to be slowed
during periods of peak electrical demand.
The final two pumps are projected to be needed in FY 2035/36, based on current demand growth patterns.
Location
Water Treatment Plant, 1800 East 13th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 164,000 164,000
Construction 1,310,000 1,310,000
Total 1,474,000 1,474,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 1,474,000 1,474,000
Total 1,474,000 1,474,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Pumping Water and Pollution Control
49 77
Mortensen and County Line Elevated Tank Repainting Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project involves repainting of the Mortensen and County Line (MAC) Elevated Tank.
Comments
The MAC tank was constructed in 2003. Every three years the tank is taken out of service so that the interior can be cleaned and inspected. The exterior of the
tank is power washed as needed to maintain the tank’s appearance and to maintain the coating system. The painting system used at that time had a reported 20-
year life but has held up well, allowing the repainting to be postponed. Repainting the tank is now planned for FY 2028/29. Staff will be closely monitoring the tank
to ensure the repainting occurs when the existing coatings begin to fail. The work will involve sandblasting both the interior and exterior of the tank, applying new
primer, and repainting the tank.
Although this is the first time this activity has appeared in the Capital Improvements Plan, the work has been a part of the Water Fund rate model for several years.
Location
900 South 500th Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 1,361,000 1,361,000
Total 1,361,000 1,361,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 1,361,000 1,361,000
Total 1,361,000 1,361,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Pumping Water and Pollution Control
50
78
Water Pollution Control
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Nutrient Reduction Modifications 52,000,000 25,760,000 26,240,000 - - - 52
Cogeneration System Maintenance 1,384,000 180,000 1,204,000 - - - 53
Watershed-Based Nutrient Reduction 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 54
WPC Plant Facility Improvements 858,000 - 144,000 - 514,000 200,000 55
Lift Station Improvements 786,000 - 100,000 325,000 - 361,000 56
Clarifier Maintenance 750,000 - - 750,000 - - 57
Total Project Expenditures 58,403,000 26,465,000 28,213,000 1,600,000 1,039,000 1,086,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
State Revolving Fund Loans 52,000,000 25,760,000 26,240,000 - - -
City:
Sewer Utility Fund 4,731,000 380,000 1,601,000 1,275,000 714,000 761,000
Water Utility Fund 47,000 - 47,000 - - -
Total City Funding 4,778,000 380,000 1,648,000 1,275,000 714,000 761,000
Other:
Grant Funds 1,625,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000
Total Funding Sources 58,403,000 26,465,000 28,213,000 1,600,000 1,039,000 1,086,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
51 79
Nutrient Reduction Modifications – Phase 1 Project Status: Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In 2013, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) released the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. This strategy requires the largest wastewater facilities in
Iowa – both municipal and industrial – to install process changes to meet nutrient removal targets. A feasibility study for the Ames Water Pollution Control Facility
was conducted in 2019. That study recommended a phased conversion of the facility to biological nutrient removal over a period of 20 years . Following Council
approval, it was forwarded to the Iowa DNR who approved the plan and the timeline. That timeline is now included as a “Special Condition” in the facility’s discharge
permit.
Comments
A design contract was awarded in the spring of 2022 for the first phase of the nutrient reduction modifications. The phasing strategy will initially construct half of the
ultimate aeration basin capacity along with new bar screens, grit removal equipment, a relocated administration building, and other associated components. The
second phase will include the remaining aeration basin capacity and a waste sludge thickening facility, and is scheduled for design starting in FY 2035/36.
The costs shown in the table to the right are based on the Facility Plan approved by Council in May
2023 and subsequently approved by the Iowa DNR. The cost estimates will continue to be refined as
the design is completed. The Sewer Fund rate model assumes this project will be financed using a
Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan.
Location
WPC Facility; four miles south of Highway 30, east of I nterstate 35
Phase 1 Nutrients + Headworks
Est. 1st half 2024 bid
$52,000,000
Phase 2 Nutrients
Est. 1st half 2035 bid date
$58,350,000
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 2,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000
Construction 49,520,000 24,760,000 24,760,000
Furniture & Fixture Allowance 480,000 480,000
Total 52,000,000 25,760,000 26,240,000
Financing:
Clean Water State Revolving Fund 52,000,000 25,760,000 26,240,000
Total 52,000,000 25,760,000 26,240,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Facility Water and Pollution Control 522-3420-489
52
80
Cogeneration System Maintenance Project Status: Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project includes the ongoing major maintenance needs of the Water Pollution Control (WPC) Facility’s cogeneration system and hauled waste receiving
infrastructure. The specific project planned at this time is the construction of a new a fats, oils, and grease (FOG) receiving station.
Comments
The FOG receiving station will improve the receiving capabilities of the facility by paving the unloading areas , changing to more appropriate pumping capabilities,
and better incorporating the ability to accept hauled food waste that has been diverted away from the Resource Recovery Plant (RRP). The funds were originally
authorized in FY 2022/23, but the project is now shown as delayed to allow time to better coordinate with any new food waste diversion programs at the RRP. Funds
for design are planned in FY 2024/25 with construction to occur the following year .
This project helps achieve the reduction in waste emissions action step in the City’s proposed Climate Action Plan. The diverted food waste will be anaerobically
digested to produce additional methane that can be used for on-site electricity generation at WPC.
2024/25 $ 180,000 Design Phase
2025/26 $1,204,000 Construction Phase
Total $1,384,000
Location
WPC Facility; four miles south of Highway 30, east of I nterstate 35
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 180,000 180,000
Construction 1,204,000 1,204,000
Total 1,384,000 180,000 1,204,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 1,384,000 180,000 1,204,000
Total 1,384,000 180,000 1,204,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Facility Water and Pollution Control 520-3470-489
53 81
Watershed-Based Nutrient Reduction Project Status: Scope Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Water Pollution Control Facility is being converted to a nutrient removal treatment technology. Separate from the work th at will occur inside the treatment
plant, watershed-based improvements performed by the City can be included in the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Exchange and “banked” as credit toward any future,
more stringent nutrient reduction requirements imposed on the WPC Facil ity. This project sets aside $200,000 from the Sewer Fund per year that can be put
toward urban and rural watershed improvements that have a nutrient reduction component. Those funds are then leveraged to obtain grants and funding from
other partner organizations.
Comments
Projects undertaken will not only have a nutrient reduction element, but will also provide additio nal, ancillary benefits such as flood risk reduction, drought risk
reduction, increased recreational opportunities, improved wildlife habitat, urban storm water management, and drinking water source protection. Examples of
projects currently underway include:
• In-field conservation practices such as cover crops
• Land retirement
• Edge-of-Field conservation practices such as saturated buffers and bioreactors (including an expansion into Hamilton County)
• Constructed wetlands
Because staff has received interest in a possible expansion of the Edge-of-Field project into the Hamilton County portion of the Ioway Creek watershed, that
project is shown as increasing in scope. The overall annual commitment from the Sewer Fund remains the same as shown previously at $200,000 per year.
Location
Throughout and upstream of the community; specific locations will vary by year
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Edge-of-Field Practices 2,000,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Other Watershed Projects 625,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000
Total 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Grants & Partnerships 1,625,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000
Total 2,625,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000 525,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Facility Water and Pollution Control Various
54
82
WPC Plant Facility Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
It is necessary to plan for the orderly repair, replacement, and upgrade of Water Pollution Control (WPC) Facility equipment in order to continue high-quality
treatment and comply with environmental regulations. This project involves annual equipment repairs, maintenance, replaceme nt, and upgrades at the plant. This
facility became fully operational in November 1989. Life expectancies for plant equipment vary from five to six years to more than thirty years.
Comments
The electric service and controls for the remote storage building and grain bins (part of the farm management associated with biosolids disposal) will be upgraded
in FY 2025/26. The atomic absorption spectrophotometer also planned in FY 2025/26 is used by the Laboratory to detect heavy metals in the wastewater and
biosolids, as well as for drinking water analysis . This expense will be shared between the Water and Sewer Funds. Funds are allocated in FY 2027/28 to work on
some of the many buried valves and valve operators throughout the plant that will not be impacted by the Nutrient Reduction project. In that same year, the wet
wells in the Raw Water and Trickling Filter Pump Stations will be cleaned. This task has been intentionally scheduled after the new bar screens are installed (a
part of the Nutrients Reduction project), as the new screens will significantly reduce the volume of solids that enters these facilities. Similarly, funds are planned in
FY 2028/29 to address gates, valves and actuators throughout the plant that are not being replaced as a part of the Nutrient Reduction project.
The schedule for these improvements is as follows:
2025/26 Remote Storage Building and Grain Bin Controls ($50,000); Replace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer ($94,000)
2027/28 Buried Valve Maintenance ($100,000); Clean Raw Water and Trickling Filter Pump Station Wet Wells ($414,000)
2028/29 Maintenance on Splitter Boxes, Gates, Valves, and Actuators ($200,000)
Location
WPC Facility; four miles south of Highway 30, east of I nterstate 35
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction & Equipment 858,000 144,000 514,000 200,000
Total 858,000 144,000 514,000 200,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 858,000 97,000 514,000 200,000
Water Utility Fund 47,000
Total 858,000 144,000 514,000 200,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Facility Water and Pollution Control
55 83
Lift Station Improvements Project Status: Cost Change Scope Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project includes periodic maintenance and repair of the City’s wastewater lift stations.
Comments
The project in FY 2025/26 will connect all five of the City’s wastewater lift stations to the Water Pollution Control Facility using a cellular connection. It will bring
back data such as wet well level, alarm status, pump run times, and other information that is important to the plant operators. The existing system uses land lines
and only relays alarms via voice message to the plant’s main telephone number. The proposed system would transmit data every 15 minutes and connect into the
plant SCADA system, giving the operators a better picture of what is happening in the stations and would prevent unnecessary callouts during off-shift hours. This
project will also include the installation of a wireless flow monitoring device that can be mounted anywhere in the collection system, providing flow information to
both the plant operators and the Public Works operations staff. If the system works as envisioned, additional units would be budgeted in future years.
The FY 2026/27 work is to replace the aging pumps, piping, valves, manhole hatch, and controls at the Freel Drive lift station.
The FY 2028/29 project will remove the Northwood Lift station and replace it with a gravity sewer. Where feasible, replacing a lift station with a gravity sewer
eliminates maintenance needs, eliminates the need for electricity to pump the wastewater, and reduces the risk of sewer overflows due to failures of mechan ical
equipment. The Northwood station serves a small number of homes and no additional development (or flow) is expected for the area.
Location
Multiple lift stations across the city
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 71,000 38,000 33,000
Construction & Equipment 715,000 100,000 287,000 328,000
Total 786,000 100,000 325,000 361,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 786,000 100,000 325,000 361,000
Total 786,000 100,000 325,000 361,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Facility Water and Pollution Control
56
84
Clarifier Maintenance Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project includes repainting the steel structures of the Primary (3 of 4), Intermediate (2 of 2), and Final (2 of 2) Clarifiers. The coatings protect the steel
elements from the harsh conditions present both in the submerged portions of the clarifiers as well as at the air/water interface.
Comments
The structures were last repainted over a period of several years between 2005 and 20 12. The typical life of a recoating project is 15-20 years in this application.
The actual cost will depend on the condition of the coating system at the time of the project, and the scope could range from spot touch -ups to full blasting and
recoating. All of these structures will remain in service following the Nutrient Reduction project.
Location
WPC Facility; four miles south of Highway 30, east of Interstate 35
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 750,000 750,000
Total 750,000 750,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 750,000 750,000
Total 750,000 750,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - WPC Plant Water and Pollution Control
57 85
Water Distribution
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Water System Improvements 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000 59
Total Project Expenditures 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
Water Utility Fund 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
Total Funding Sources 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
58
86
Water System Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program provides for replacing aged water mains in areas that experience rusty water problems, generally caused by aged cast iron pipe (most often 4-inch
and 6-inch but also some larger mains such as 12-inch). It also provides for installing larger distribution mains in areas with 4-inch supply lines, transferring water
services from 4-inch water mains in streets where larger water mains exist, and abandoning 4-inch water mains. Eliminating duplicate water mains, where possible,
improves water flow and helps reduce rusty water. Installing larger distribution lines in areas that have a high concentration of 4 -inch supply lines and less than
desirable firefighting capacity (predominantly in the older areas of the community) provides larger supply quantities in rela tion to the current and proposed land uses,
in accordance with the Land Use Policy Plan. This program also includes projects to loop the water system to provide improved pressures, circulation, and redundancy
to the community. The improvements may also include areas with maintenance issues, such as those that experience a large number of water main breaks or the
replacement of leaking valves on larger water mains along major roadways where the complexity of the project encourages repla cement by a contractor.
Comments
Rusty water complaints highlight the continuing need to replace the aged 4-inch and 6-inch cast iron water mains in order to provide firefighting capacity and improved
water quality in the system. The system currently has 6.9 miles of active 4-inch water main (estimated replacement cost $12 million) and 32.5 miles of active, aged
6-inch cast iron water main (estimated cost $45 million). An estimated 186 active lead services (estimated cost of $1 million) are still connected to these older mains,
although records are unreliable, resulting in additional lead services being discovered over time. Improvements to these water mains will result in reduced
maintenance costs. Annual funding continues to be increased in this program to accelerate the replacement of utilities.
These public infrastructure projects are a high priority needed to continue improving the public water system to enhance water quality and firefighting capacity to the
community.
Location
Water system improvements and water service transfers will be completed at various locations in the community. Project locati ons will be coordinated with upcoming
roadway improvement projects to minimize construction impacts on neighborhoods.
The FY 2027/28 fiscal year includes a $1,400,000 project to extend a larger water main along E 13th Street to the Water Plant prior to the installation of additional
pumps at the new Water Plant.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 1,932,500 280,000 280,000 375,000 585,000 412,500
Construction 11,317,500 1,770,000 1,770,000 2,125,000 3,315,000 2,337,500
Total 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
Financing:
Water Utility Fund 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
Total 13,250,000 2,050,000 2,050,000 2,500,000 3,900,000 2,750,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Water Distribution Public Works 510-8461-489
59 87
Sanitary Sewer System
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Sanitary Sewer System Improvements 8,200,000 350,000 350,000 2,500,000 2,500,000 2,500,000 61
Clear Water Diversion 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 62
Total Project Expenditures 8,450,000 400,000 400,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 2,550,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Sewer Utility Fund 8,450,000 400,000 400,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 2,550,000
Total Funding Sources 8,450,000 400,000 400,000 2,550,000 2,550,000 2,550,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
60
88
Sanitary Sewer System Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Decrease City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is the annual program for rehabilitation and reconstruction of deficient sanitary sewers and deteriorated manholes at various locations throughout the City. Most
problem areas are in sewers that can be bundled into a construction package for cost efficiency, or in problem areas deeper t han City crews are equipped to handle.
This program provides for those repairs by outside firms. Activities include rehabilitating or replacing manholes, repairing, or lining pipe, and similar work. The goal
of this program is to identify and remove major sources of inflow/infiltration as a means of lowering the peak wet weather flow at the treatment plant.
Comments
System improvement locations have been identified through the Sanitary Sewer System Evaluation (SSSE) field investigation completed in 2012. Through manhole
inspections, smoke testing, and televising, severe structural defects (ratings of “4” or “5”) were identified as priorities within this program. It was originally estimated
that the system would need $25,700,000 in funding over 10 years to upgrade infrastructure with ratings of “4” or “5”. Since the program commenced in FY 2015/16,
however, construction costs have inflated at a higher rate than anticipated causing extensions to the timeframe. To date, $18,411,110 of improvements have taken
place and it is estimated that the $24,000,000 needed to upgrade the remaining “4” and “5” rated sewers. Sewer infrastructure continues to degrade following the
2012 evaluation causing additional sewers to need spot repairs and rehabilitation.
In order to minimize the impact on ratepayers the staff reduced nearly $9 million in the next two years. The following three years were reduced by roughly $1.1
million dollars each year. Staff anticipates finishing the substantial number of projects (approximately $15 million) that have encountered delays outside of the City’s
control.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 1,500,000 500,000 500,000 500,000
Construction 6,700,000 350,000 350,000 2,000,000 2,000,000 2,000,000
Total 8,200,000 350,000 350,000 2,500,000 2,500,000 2,500,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 8,200,000 350,000 350,000 2,500,000 2,500,000 2,500,000
Total 8,200,000 350,000 350,000 2,500,000 2,500,000 2,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Sanitary Sewer Public Works 520-8542-489
61 89
Clear Water Diversion Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program provides for the installation of sub-drain lines to collect footing drain discharge from sump lines on individual properties.
Clear water from footing drains contributes to overloading and backups in the sanitary sewer system, as well as increases in the volume of clean water that is
treated at the City’s Water Pollution Control facility. This program involves diverting footing drain discharges from the sanitary sewers to the City’s storm sewers.
This diversion results in lower volumes of clean water needing treatment at the Water Pollution Control facility, thereby decreasing operating and maintenance
costs at that facility. In addition, customers within the community should experience even fewer, less severe sanitary sewer backups.
Comments
Project locations are chosen where problem areas caused by discharge to the street are identified. These include locations where multiple existing discharge lines
may be connected and where a new collector line can connect a new discharge while providing the opportunity for future connections to be made.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Financing:
Sewer Utility Fund 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Program - Activity: Account Number:
Utilities - Sanitary Sewer Public Works 520-8585-489
62
90
Stormwater
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Stormwater Erosion Control Program 5,000,000 750,000 1,250,000 750,000 850,000 1,400,000
Stormwater Improvement Program 3,250,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 65
Low Point Drainage Improvements 1,100,000 350,000 500,000 250,000 - - 66
Stormwater Quality Improvements 900,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 67
Stormwater Detention/Retention Maint 150,000 - - 150,000 - - 68
South Skunk River Improvements 600,000 - - - 600,000 - 69
Total Project Expenditures 11,000,000 1,850,000 2,600,000 2,000,000 2,300,000 2,250,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 600,000 - - - 600,000 -
City:
Stormwater Utility Fund 9,200,000 1,450,000 2,200,000 2,000,000 1,700,000 1,850,000
Other:
Grant Funds 1,200,000 400,000 400,000 - - 400,000
Total Funding Sources 11,000,000 1,850,000 2,600,000 2,000,000 2,300,000 2,250,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
63
64
91
Stormwater Erosion Control Program Project Status: Revenue Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program provides for the stabilization of areas that have become eroded in streams, channels, swales, gullies, or drainage ways that are part of the
City’s stormwater system. This program provides a more permanent erosion control and will reduce recurring maintenance costs in these areas.
Comments
Following the floods of 2010, an Urban Stream Assessment was updated to rate the stream banks of each tributary of Ada Hayden, College Creek, Clear Creek,
Onion Creek, Worrell Creek, Ioway Creek, and the South Skunk River. This assessment identified areas where stabilization is a priority. As monitoring activities
associated with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements continue, additional locations for future improvements will be
identified.
The State Revolving Fund (SRF) Sponsored Project funding previously designated for this program was a grant connected with SRF funding for the Sanitary Sewer
Rehabilitation Program. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Iowa Finance Authority is significantly changing this program. Therefore, the source of
revenue has been updated to reflect Water Quality Grants , which can be from federal, state, or non-profit programs.
Staff receives numerous communications from residents requesting these projects and asking for updates on the status. This is a high-priority program.
Location
2024/25 Clear Creek bank stabilization (west of North Dakota Avenue)
2025/26 Canterbury Court Waterway and Mortensen Pkwy/University Blvd (Gateway Hill Park)
2026/27 Ioway Creek (Stange Rd/Veenker Golf Course)
2027/28 Dayton Avenue (east side ditch along USDA Facility) and Worrell Creek (Ames Airport)
2028/29 Clear Creek bank stabilization and restoration (former Sands-McDorman property)
Stuart Smith Park has been identified for inclusion in the Capital Improvement Plans after this five-year period.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 920,000 150,000 250,000 150,000 170,000 200,000
Construction 4,080,000 600,000 1,000,000 600,000 680,000 1,200,000
Total 5,000,000 750,000 1,250,000 750,000 850,000 1,400,000
Financing:
Stormwater Utility Fund 3,800,000 350,000 850,000 750,000 850,000 1,000,000
Water Quality Grant 1,200,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Total 5,000,000 750,000 1,250,000 750,000 850,000 1,400,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works 560-8640-489
561-8640-489
64
92
Stormwater Improvement Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program is to repair or replace deteriorated storm sewer pipes and intakes. Areas of concentration will be locations programmed for street improvements
and areas where structural deficiencies are identified.
Many existing intakes are brick or concrete and have experienced repeated “freeze/thaw” conditions during winters and springs. This repeated freeze/thaw action
causes bricks and mortar to deteriorate, resulting in collapsed intakes. This program provides for a proactive response by contractu ally repairing and replacing
intakes on a scheduled basis. In addition to the contractual work provided in this program, City crews provide immediate repair of those intakes that pose an
immediate concern for life, health, or safety.
Comments
Through citizen inquiries and storm sewer inspections by maintenance crews, staff has identified storm sewer structural deficiencies within the system. These include
areas where the pipe has cracked or is missing sections or pieces of pipe. This program provides funding to correct these deficiencies.
Completion of the Stormwater System Analysis will identify the need for additional improvements as part of the program. This could result in changes to this program
beginning in FY 2025/26.
The results of the 2023 Resident Satisfaction Survey showed stormwater drainage improvements being somewhat or very important to the 78% of respondents.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Construction 2,750,000 550,000 550,000 550,000 550,000 550,000
Total 3,250,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000
Financing:
Stormwater Utility Fund 3,250,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000
Total 3,250,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000 650,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works 560-8642-489
65 93
Low Point Drainage Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is the annual program for drainage improvements to decrease flooding at low points in the community. These improvements are not only focused on residential
street locations, but specifically on those locations most in need of the improvements as affected by standing water, localized flooding, and insufficient pipe capacity.
During heavy rainfall events, some areas become flooded and damage to private property occasionally occurs. This program provides for installation of dra inage
improvements to decrease this flooding at low points. These improvements may include construction of detention areas, new pip e systems, and replacement systems
to increase the ability to control the runoff so it can be carried away to downstream systems.
Comments
Addressing these drainage issues will reduce localized flooding problems on both public and private property. Fewer barricades will need to be set out in areas that
flood during heavy rains. Locations previously identified for improvements as part of this program, along with new areas for which complaints were received over the
past year, have been prioritized as shown below.
Staff receives numerous communications from residents requesting these projects and asking for updates on the status. Addressing these stormwater and localized
flooding concerns will continue to be a high priority based on significant feedback received as part of the Resident Satisfaction Survey.
Location
2024/25 South of Ken Maril Road (extend earthen berm behind 300/400 blocks) and Crystal drainage ditch (east of Crystal Street cul-de-sac)
2025/26 Sixth Street/Duff Avenue, 20th Street/Northwestern Avenue, South Bell Avenue/SE 16th Street, and Grove Avenue/River Oak Drive
2026/27 Duff Avenue/6th Street and Crystal Street (200 Block)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 190,000 52,500 100,000 37,500
Construction 910,000 297,500 400,000 212,500
Total 1,100,000 350,000 500,000 250,000
Financing:
Stormwater Utility Fund 1,100,000 350,000 500,000 250,000
Total 1,100,000 350,000 500,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works 560-8653-489
66
94
Stormwater Quality Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program includes water quality improvements and treatment for new development and re-development in the community. These improvements have been
incorporated into the Post Construction Stormwater Management Ordinance. This addresses removal of sediment and nutrients before they enter waterways such
as Ioway Creek and South Skunk River. This program includes treatment of the water quality volume from public impervious areas (e.g., streets and parking lots).
Comments
This program includes installation of bioretention cells, vegetated swales, native landscape and rain gardens, soil quality restoration, and other approved best
management practices at various locations across the community. These best management practices may be combined with street improvement projects. The
involvement of neighborhoods or adjacent landowners is sought to help with day-to-day maintenance and stream restoration projects. Improvements are aligned
with the Iowa River Restoration Toolbox practices for natural channel design.
Locations
2024/25 Ada Hayden Sturges Tributary (construction)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 135,000 15,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Construction 765,000 85,000 170,000 170,000 170,000 170,000
Total 900,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Financing:
Stormwater Utility Fund 900,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Total 900,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works 560-8601-489
67 95
Stormwater Detention/Retention Maintenance Program Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In accordance with the Municipal Code, new developments within the community are required to provide stormwater management quantity control. This means
maintaining stormwater runoff discharges at pre-developed conditions through the use of extended detention and/or retention.
Through establishment of developers’ agreements, the City of Ames has accepted responsibility for the long -term maintenance of many of these facilities in residential
areas. As these facilities age, sediment accumulates, volunteer vegetation becomes more prevalent, erosion occurs, and structures ne ed to be improved. This
annual program addresses those concerns.
Comments
As part of the post-construction stormwater management ordinance, commercial and industrial landowners are now responsible to maintain their own stormwater
facilities. This ordinance also provides for the homeowner’s association or residential development owner to maintain all water quality features. However, the City is
responsible for long-term maintenance of the regional detention facilities that provide water quantity control.
Location
2026/27 Ada Hayden wetlands
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 30,000 30,000
Construction 120,000 120,000
Total 150,000 150,000
Financing:
Stormwater Utility Fund 150,000 150,000
Total 150,000 150,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works
68
96
South Skunk River Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
A comprehensive Flood Mitigation Study was completed following the floods of 2010, and in 2013 the City Council approved a series of flood mitigation measures.
These included discrete elements targeted at undertaking a “stream restoration” of Ioway Creek, working with the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) to
improve the conveyance capacity of the U.S. Highway 30 bridge, working through the Ioway Creek Watershed Management Authority to pursue flood mitigation
alternatives in the upper reaches of the watershed, and conducting a workshop to review and discuss the range of possible flo odplain regulatory approaches.
Comments
The IDOT has programmed improvements to the U.S. Highway 30 bridge in the coming years, with a winter 2024 bid letting and construction over several years.
Due to river capacity constraints with the U.S. Highway 30 bridges, the design of SE 16th Street and bridge was established to overtop with a 50-year flood event.
Considering the IDOT’s plans to move forward with capacity changes, a study to increase capacity at the SE 16th Street bridge is being performed.
Location
2027/28 SE 16th Street Bridge (increasing drainage capacity)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 100,000 100,000
Construction 500,000 500,000
Total 600,000 600,000
Financing:
GO Bonds 600,000 600,000
Total 600,000 600,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Stormwater Public Works
69 97
Utilities - Resource Recovery
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Resource Recovery System Improvements 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000 71
Total Project Expenditures 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
Resource Recovery Fund 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Total Funding Sources 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
70
98
Resource Recovery System Improvements Project Status: Scope Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program is to purchase new and replacement components and equipment at the City’s Resource Recovery Plant. Also included is funding for materials for two
annual preventive maintenance projects involving replacement of the rotary disc screen rollers (RDS) and chains and rebuilding the C-1 conveyor. Resource
Recovery personnel perform the work to complete the preventive maintenance projects.
Comments
2024/25 Preventive maintenance materials for replacement of #1 mill armored teeth and counter combs ($80,000); RDS rollers and chains ($70,000); new counter
comb door for #1 mill ($65,000); #2 mill hammers, hammer shafts, grates ($70,000); replace C-2 belt ($28,000); switchgear cleaning and maintenance
($30,000); #2 mill hopper rebuild ($15,000); mobile trailer for recycling ($20,000); roll offs for recycling ($52,000); recycling bins ($20,000); lay down area
for yard trimmings and recycling ($200,000)
2025/26 Preventive maintenance materials for replacement of #1 mill armored teeth and counter combs ($68,000); RDS rollers and chains ($75,000); #2 mill
hammers, hammer shafts, grates ($71,000); #1 mill replacement rotor ($65,000); switchgear cleaning and maintenance ($30,000); #2 mill hopper
replacement ($50,000)
2026/27 Preventive maintenance materials ($389,000)
2027/28 Preventive maintenance materials ($274,000)
2028/29 Preventive maintenance materials ($261,000)
All these projects are necessary for on-going maintenance of the Plant. The scope change is due to adding projects in FY 2024/25 to expand support and promote
the new recycling initiative. Therefore, these may significantly change due to the future plans adopted by City Council for handing municipal solid waste and recycling
materials. As part of our Climate Action Plan, Staff continues to explore alternative approaches to current waste -to-energy system.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
System Improvements 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Total 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Financing:
Resource Recovery Fund 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Total 1,933,000 650,000 359,000 389,000 274,000 261,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Utilities - Resource Recovery Public Works 590-9003-489
71 99
TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION
100
Transportation
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures
Street Improvements 56,105,000 4,305,000 11,775,000 16,125,000 12,775,000 11,125,000 74
Shared Use Path System 5,880,000 800,000 1,520,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000 86
Traffic Improvements 17,278,000 4,104,000 6,620,000 2,254,000 1,525,000 2,775,000 91
Street Rehabilitation 3,150,000 630,000 530,000 580,000 580,000 830,000 98
Transit System 20,103,289 1,170,268 5,885,846 4,675,203 4,726,127 3,645,845 103
Airport 21,674,000 1,795,000 7,645,500 7,558,500 4,145,000 530,000 109
Total Expenditures 124,190,289 12,804,268 33,976,346 32,452,703 24,801,127 20,155,845
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 50,372,396 1,156,100 12,744,040 14,357,256 11,585,000 10,530,000
G.O. Bonds (previously issued) 1,491,000 1,491,000 - - - -
Total Debt Funding 51,863,396 2,647,100 12,744,040 14,357,256 11,585,000 10,530,000
City: Road Use Tax 12,183,204 2,641,900 2,911,460 2,069,844 2,030,000 2,530,000 Local Option Sales Tax 4,785,000 775,000 910,000 1,000,000 1,050,000 1,050,000 Water Utility Fund 300,000 - 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Sewer Utility Fund 300,000 - 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Stormwater Utility Fund 200,000 - 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Transit Fund 5,898,030 596,000 1,691,096 1,356,230 1,334,015 920,689
Airport Improvements Fund 600,000 155,000 115,000 25,000 305,000 -
Total City Funding 24,266,234 4,167,900 5,827,556 4,651,074 4,919,015 4,700,689
Other: MPO/STP Funds 11,004,000 2,934,000 1,790,000 2,400,000 1,680,000 2,200,000 Federal/State Grants 21,051,159 2,320,268 7,464,250 4,669,373 3,872,112 2,725,156 Federal Aviation Administration 16,005,500 735,000 6,150,500 6,375,000 2,745,000 -
Total Other Funding 48,060,659 5,989,268 15,404,750 13,444,373 8,297,112 4,925,156
Total Funding Sources 124,190,289 12,804,268 33,976,346 32,452,703 24,801,127 20,155,845
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
73 101
Street Improvements
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
South 16th Street Roadway Widening 3,555,000 3,555,000 - - - - 75
Collector Street Pavement Improvements 5,950,000 750,000 2,200,000 1,500,000 1,500,000 - 76
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements 14,400,000 - 4,000,000 2,900,000 4,500,000 3,000,000 77
Concrete Pavement Improvements 9,750,000 - 3,600,000 3,350,000 1,300,000 1,500,000 78
Seal Coat Pavement Improvements 3,650,000 - 1,000,000 900,000 750,000 1,000,000 79
Alley Pavement Improvements Program 1,600,000 - 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 80
Downtown Street Pavement Improvements 250,000 - 250,000 - - - 81
Right-of-Way Restoration 1,300,000 - 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 82
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements 7,900,000 - - 3,000,000 2,400,000 2,500,000 83
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements 6,000,000 - - 2,000,000 1,600,000 2,400,000 84
Campustown Public Improvements 1,750,000 - - 1,750,000 - - 85
Total Project Expenditures 56,105,000 4,305,000 11,775,000 16,125,000 12,775,000 11,125,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 43,220,000 - 10,050,000 13,400,000 10,770,000 9,000,000
G.O. Bonds (previously issued) 1,491,000 1,491,000 - - - -
Total Debt Funding 44,711,000 1,491,000 10,050,000 13,400,000 10,770,000 9,000,000
City:
Road Use Tax 500,000 - 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000
Water Utility Fund 300,000 - 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Sewer Utility Fund 300,000 - 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Stormwater Utility Fund 200,000 - 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total City Funding 1,300,000 - 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000
Other:
MPO/STP Funds 10,094,000 2,814,000 1,400,000 2,400,000 1,680,000 1,800,000
Total Funding Sources 56,105,000 4,305,000 11,775,000 16,125,000 12,775,000 11,125,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
74
102
South 16th Street Roadway Widening Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project includes widening South 16th Street to four lanes from University Boulevard to Apple Place with turn lanes and traffic control improvements at Christensen
Drive & South Riverside Drive (both into Vet Med), culvert extension at Worrell Creek, and improved multi-use paths along the corridor.
Comments
This project includes the following components:
• Reconstruct the existing roadway and multi-use trail segment from University Boulevard to just east of Mulberry Boulevard
• Evaluate raising South 16th Street above the 100-year flood elevation
• Widen this segment of South 16th Street to four lanes, consistent with the segment of South 16th Street east to South Duff Avenue
• Extend the multi-use trails along the north and south sides of South 16th Street to University Boulevard ($378,200)
• Add traffic control signals at South Riverside Drive
The reconstruction segment lies within Iowa State University jurisdiction as an institutional road. This project will achieve the following Community Objectives:
• Complete the minor arterial linkage from University Boulevard to South Duff Avenue with consistent lane configuration, adequate capacity, and improved
safety
• Improve route resiliency during flood events
• Remove bottlenecks at Christensen Drive and South Riverside Drive, improving safety for turning traffic and corridor progression
• Improve efficiency of CyRide bus routes with improved corridor progression and possible bus turnouts at high ridership locatio ns
• Improve pedestrian capacity and safety by separating the multi-use trail from the roadway edge
• Expedites completion of the needed project
Active coordination with major stakeholders , including the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Department of Athletics, has been underway through internal
University processes.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 325,000 325,000
Construction 3,230,000 3,230,000
Total 3,555,000 3,555,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds (previously issued) 741,000 741,000
MPO/STP Funds 2,814,000 2,814,000
Total 3,555,000 3,555,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works 320-8183-439
380-8183-439
381-8183-439 75 103
Collector Street Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification.
This is the annual program for reconstruction or rehabilitation of collector streets. Locations are chosen in accordance with the most current street condition
inventory.
Comments
Collector street pavement improvements result in lower street maintenance costs and less frequent repairs.
Location
2024/25 Oakland Street (Hawthorne Avenue to Franklin Avenue)
2025/26 Bloomington Road (GW Carver to Eisenhower Avenue)
2026/27 West Street (Crane Avenue to Hillcrest Avenue)
2027/28 Wheeler Street (Hoover Avenue to Roy Key Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 1,165,000 125,000 440,000 300,000 300,000
Construction 4,785,000 625,000 1,760,000 1,200,000 1,200,000
Total 5,950,000 750,000 2,200,000 1,500,000 1,500,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 3,800,000 800,000 1,500,000 1,500,000
G.O. Bonds (previously issued) 750,000 750,000
MPO/STBG Funds 1,400,000 1,400,000
Total 750,000 2,200,000 1,500,000 1,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works 381-8132-439
382-8132-439
383-8132-439
76
5,950,000
104
Asphalt Street Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is the annual program for reconstruction and resurfacing (rehabilitation) of asphalt streets that are typically located within residential neighborhoods. Streets
within residential subdivisions have been installed using full-depth asphalt pavement since mid-1970. Full-depth reconstruction of these streets becomes
necessary when structural pavements fail. However, rehabilitation of existing asphalt streets is possible where the base asphalt layer is solid but the surface layer
has failed.
This program was created in accordance with City Council’s goal of strengthening our neighborhoods.
Comments
Reconstructing or resurfacing these streets reduces ongoing maintenance costs and provides more serviceable roadways for our residents.
Location
2025/26 Hillcrest Avenue, Ellis Street, Kentucky Avenue, Illinois Avenue, Indiana Avenue, Oklahoma Drive and Delaware Avenue (North Dakota Avenue to
Ontario Street)
2026/27 Toronto Street (North Dakota Avenue to Garfield Avenue), Garfield Avenue (north and south of Ontario Street), Woodstock Avenue, and Windsor
Court
2027/28 Truman Place, Regency Court, Onyx Street, Southdale Drive, and Clemens Boulevard (S. Dakota Avenue to Wilder Avenue)
2028/29 Dickinson Avenue (Mortensen Avenue south through circle), Green Hills Drive (Oakwood Rd to Red Oak Drive), Red Oak Drive/Circle, White Oak
Drive/Circle, Burr Oak Circle, Jefferson Street/Circle, Garner Avenue/Circle, Nixon Avenue/Circle
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 2,160,000 600,000 435,000 675,000 450,000
Construction 12,240,000 3,400,000 2,465,000 3,825,000 2,550,000
Total 14,400,000 4,000,000 2,900,000 4,500,000 3,000,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 14,400,000 4,000,000 2,900,000 4,500,000 3,000,000
Total 14,400,000 4,000,000 2,900,000 4,500,000 3,000,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
77 105
Concrete Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program rehabilitates or reconstructs concrete street sections that have deteriorated in order to prevent premature breakdown of the pavement. This
work provides enhanced rideability for the City’s residents and visitors.
Comments
These improvements reduce ongoing maintenance and repairs needed on the City’s streets. The Clark Avenue project in FY 2025/26 will include using post-mounted
signs ($10,000) indicating that the corridor is a shared bicycle facility.
Location
2025/26 Campus Avenue (Lincoln Way to Oakland Street), Sunset Drive (Ash Avenue to Beach Avenue), and Clark Avenue (Ninth Street to 13th Street)
2026/27 North Loop Drive, 9th Street (Roosevelt Avenue to Grand Avenue), Gaskill Drive (250 ft south of Friley Rd. to Country Club Blvd.), and Crawford
Avenue (end to E 9th Street)
2027/28 6th Street (Clark Avenue to Duff Avenue)
2028/29 7th Street (Grand Avenue to Burnett Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 1,645,000 720,000 500,000 200,000 225,000
Construction 8,105,000 2,880,000 2,850,000 1,100,000 1,275,000
Total 9,750,000 3,600,000 3,350,000 1,300,000 1,500,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 9,750,000 3,600,000 3,350,000 1,300,000 1,500,000
Total 9,750,000 3,600,000 3,350,000 1,300,000 1,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
78
106
Seal Coat Street Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is the annual program for removal of built -up seal coat from streets with asphalt surface. This program restores surface texture, corrects structural
deficiencies, removes built-up seal coat, and prevents deterioration of various streets. This resurfacing process results in better riding surfaces, incr eased safety
with improved surface texture, and increased life expectancy of streets.
Built-up seal coat on streets causes excess crown which results in vehicles dragging at driveway entrances. Complete removal of thi s built-up seal coat allows for
repairs to curbs and gutters and placement of four inches of more permanent asphalt surface.
Comments
The areas to be resurfaced are chosen each spring based on the current street condition inventory and funding availability . Funding for this program may vary from
year to year to maintain a consistent overall bonding level issue each year over five years. Cost estimates include funding for concrete curb and gutter repairs that
need to be made prior to street asphalt being placed, as well as pedestrian improvements to meet the most recent state and federal accessibility requirements.
Street maintenance operation costs for patching will be reduced for the streets involved in this program.
Respondents to the 2023 Residential Satisfaction Survey indicated that reconstructing existing streets is their top capital improvement priority with 89% indicating
this is somewhat or very important. Most local streets with poorer than average pavement conditions were constructed in seal coat and are now in need of
reconstruction.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 647,500 200,000 135,000 112,500 200,000
Construction 3,002,500 800,000 765,000 637,500 800,000
Total 3,650,000 1,000,000 900,000 750,000 1,000,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 3,650,000 1,000,000 900,000 750,000 1,000,000
Total 3,650,000 1,000,000 900,000 750,000 1,000,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
79 107
Alley Pavement Improvements Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program is to reconstruct existing paved alleys w here the structural integrity of the existing pavement has diminished beyond repair. These alleys are primarily
in the vicinity south of Downtown. However, projects that are part of this CIP program may be community-wide if the adjacent properties (or the City) have
previously paid for installation of the existing pavement.
Comments
This program was introduced in 2021 with FY 2022/23 being the first construction year .
Location
2025/26 Alley south of Lincoln Way (S. Sherman Avenue to S. Kellogg Avenue)
2026/27 Alley south of Lincoln Way (Washington Avenue to S. Walnut Avenue)
2027/28 Alley south of Lincoln Way (S. Duff Avenue to S. Sherman Avenue)
2028/29 Alley south of Lincoln Way (S. Kellogg Avenue to Washington Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 320,000 80,000 80,000 80,000 80,000
Construction 1,280,000 320,000 320,000 320,000 320,000
Total 1,600,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,600,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Total 1,600,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
80
108
Downtown Street Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program is for the rehabilitation or reconstruction of streets and alleys within the downtown area. This area stretches from Lincoln Way to 7th Street
and from Grand Avenue to Duff Avenue. These projects involve rehabilitation or reconstruction of street pavements, storm and sanitary sewers, and streetscapes.
The program addresses the recommendations of the Downtown Improvements Study for the side streets in the downtown area.
Comments
Improvements to the streets and alleys in the downtown area will enhance the downtown business district.
Location
2025/26 East/west alley north of Lincoln Way (Sherman Avenue to Kellogg Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 35,000 35,000
Construction 215,000 215,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
81 109
Right-Of-Way Restoration Project Status: Cost Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
In recent years, staff has continued to observe and analyze restoration of the right-of-way areas associated with CIP projects. Some areas have been restored with
sod, while other areas have been restored using seed or dormant seed. Restoration appears to depend on the weather at the time of installation. In areas where
vegetation is not anticipated to be successful, other forms of restoration may be used, such as pervious pavement or standard concrete.
Instead of including restoration as a subcontract in each CIP individual project as was done in the past, this program facilitates more successful restoration through
a separate contract with a contractor that specializes in vegetation establishment.
Comments
Conditions for each restoration area are considered independently to select the appropriate and sustainable alternative. Restoration examples include sod, native
turf, and pervious and standard colored/stained concrete.
Carryover funds are adequate to fund the programmed work in FY 2024/25.
Location
Various locations (coordinated with Public Works streets and utility projects)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 160,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000
Construction 1,140,000 285,000 285,000 285,000 285,000
Total 1,300,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 500,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000
Water Utility Fund 300,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Sewer Utility Fund 300,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Stormwater Utility Fund 200,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 1,300,000 325,000 325,000 325,000 325,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works Various
82
110
Arterial Street Pavement Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program utilizes current repair and reconstruction techniques to improve the City’s arterial streets with asphalt or concrete. These pavement
improvements are needed to restore structural integrity, serviceability and rideability. Targeted streets are reaching a poin t of accelerated deterioration, but by
improving the streets prior to excessive problems the service life can be extended before complete reconstruction becomes necessary.
Comments
Improving these streets proactively reduces maintenance costs, thereby allowing for additional and earlier maintenance of other streets.
Location
2026/27 East Lincoln Way (Duff Avenue to S Skunk River)
2027/28 East 13th Street (McCormick Avenue to Dayton Avenue) and Duff Avenue (6th Street to 13th Street)
2028/29 Duff Avenue (20th Street to Northwood Drive)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 1,300,000 500,000 400,000 400,000
Construction 6,600,000 2,500,000 2,000,000 2,100,000
Total 7,900,000 3,000,000 2,400,000 2,500,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 2,020,000 600,000 720,000 700,000
MPO/STP Funds 5,880,000 2,400,000 1,680,000 1,800,000
Total 7,900,000 3,000,000 2,400,000 2,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
83 111
Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
This is the annual program for pavement improvements to streets that are or previously were used as bus routes.
Some of these streets were not designed or built for continuous bus loading; but when the streets were designated as bus routes, accelerated deterioration of the
street surfaces occurred. These pavement improvements will restore street sections that carry these heavier vehicles and/or higher traffic volumes.
Comments
Improving these streets now will reduce ongoing maintenance needs and improve rideability for our residents and visitors. This in turn will allow for additional and
earlier maintenance of other streets, which will prolong their useful life.
Location
2026/27 Lincoln Way (Beach Avenue to Hayward Avenue)
2027/28 Bloomington Road (Hoover Avenue to Eisenhower Avenue)
2028/29 16th Street (Grand Avenue to Ridgewood Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 900,000 300,000 200,000 400,000
Construction 5,100,000 1,700,000 1,400,000 2,000,000
Total 6,000,000 2,000,000 1,600,000 2,400,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 6,000,000 2,000,000 1,600,000 2,400,000
Total 6,000,000 2,000,000 1,600,000 2,400,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
84
CyRide Route Pavement Improvements
Description/Justification
112
Campustown Public Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project includes public infrastructure improvements along Chamberlain Street (Lynn Avenue to Hayward Avenue), continuing street and utility improvements
completed in the area. The project will involve sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and roadway pavement improvements. The project design will incorporate public
outreach.
Comments
The pavement conditions along Chamberlain Street demonstrate the need to complete reconstruction/rehabilitation to restore structural integrity of the roadway.
During design of the project, further analysis of drainage conditions in the area will be completed to determine extents of s torm sewer upgrades needed in the area.
The 100-block of Welch Avenue was reconstructed with utility system replacements, addition of bike lanes and water quality improvement tree trenches in 2020.
The 200-block of Welch Avenue is currently under design for pavement reconstruction and utility system replacements with construction in 2024/25 to coordinate
with special events planned in the area.
Location
2026/27 Chamberlain Street (Lynn Avenue to Hayward Avenue)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 350,000 350,000
Construction 1,400,000 1,400,000
Total 1,750,000 1,750,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,750,000 1,750,000
Total 1,750,000 1,750,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Improvements Public Works
85 113
Shared Use Path System
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Shared Use Path System Expansion 2,650,000 375,000 825,000 450,000 500,000 500,000 88
Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000 89
Shared Use Path Maintenance 2,025,000 300,000 375,000 450,000 450,000 450,000 90
Total Project Expenditures 5,880,000 800,000 1,520,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 4,285,000 675,000 810,000 900,000 950,000 950,000
Road Use Tax 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000
Total City Funding 5,490,000 800,000 1,130,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000
Other:
MPO/STP Funds 390,000 - 390,000 - - -
Total Funding Sources 5,880,000 800,000 1,520,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
86
114
Shared Use Path Summary
Project by Activity Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Street Improvements:
South 16th Street Roadway Widening 378,200 378,200 - - - - 76
Concrete Pavement Improvements 10,000 - 10,000 - - - 85
Campustown Public Improvements 325,000 - - 325,000 - - 75
Total Street Improvement Projects 713,200 378,200 10,000 325,000 - -
Shared Use Path System:
Shared Use Path System Expansion 2,650,000 375,000 825,000 450,000 500,000 500,000 88
Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000 89
Shared Use Path Maintenance 2,025,000 300,000 375,000 450,000 450,000 450,000 90
Total Shared Use Path Projects 5,880,000 800,000 1,520,000 1,260,000 1,050,000 1,250,000
Traffic Improvements:
Traffic System Capacity Improvements 150,000 - 150,000 - - - 93
Traffic Signal Program 125,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 94
Total Traffic Improvement Projects 275,000 25,000 175,000 25,000 25,000 25,000
Total Shared Use Path Projects 6,868,200 1,203,200 1,705,000 1,610,000 1,075,000 1,275,000
Average Expenditure/Fiscal Year 1,373,640
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
87 115
Shared Use Path System Expansion Project Status: Delayed Cost Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program provides for construction of shared use paths on street rights -of-way, adjacent to streets, and through greenbelts. The City’s Long-Range Transportation
Plan (LRTP) identifies those paths that separate bicycle traffic from higher-speed automobile traffic.
Comments
The projects included in this program are subject to acquiring voluntary easements from property owners. Construction of certain segments are contingent upon
acquisition of land. Ongoing shared use path maintenance costs will increase as these new shared use paths are added across the City.
Location
2024/25 Skunk River (South Duff trail connection along Billy Sunday Road $350,000); Moore Memorial Park to Ioway Creek Trail Design ($25,000)
2025/26 South Dayton Avenue (East Lincoln Way to Southeast 16th Street $725,000); Moore Memorial Park to Ioway Creek Trail Construction ($100,000)
2026/27 Mortensen Road path (Dickinson Road to South Dakota Ave $190,000); South Duff path (S. 5th Street to S. 3rd Street $260,000)
2027/28 Location to be determined in Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan finalization ($500,000)
2028/29 24th Street path (Grand Avenue to Duff Avenue $500,000)
The cost estimate for the 24th Street Path has increased from $400,000 to $500,000. It has been delayed t o be coordinated with the FY 2028/29 Traffic System
Capacity Improvements project at 24th Street and Grand Ave.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 610,000 115,000 145,000 150,000 100,000 100,000
Construction 2,040,000 260,000 680,000 300,000 400,000 400,000
Total 2,650,000 375,000 825,000 450,000 500,000 500,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 2,260,000 375,000 435,000 450,000 500,000 500,000
MPO/STP Funds 390,000 390,000
Total 2,650,000 375,000 825,000 450,000 500,000 500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Shared Use Paths Public Works 030-8802-439
030-8877-439
88
116
Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Multi-modal transportation refers to the variety of modes used by Ames residents to travel the transport system. The modes specifically addressed in this program
include bicycling and automobiles.
This program is aimed at improving the roadway to create a safer interaction between these two modes using alternatives such as improved crossing visibility at
intersections, bike detection, and on-street facilities (e.g. bike lanes and sharrows). Bike lanes consist of a portion of the roadway designated by striping, signing,
and pavement markings for the preferential or exclusive use of bicyclists. Sharrows, also known as shared lane markings, are markings used in lanes shared by
bicycles and motor vehicles when a travel lane is too narrow to provide a standard width bike lane. Bike detection improvements include retrofitting signalized
intersections to radar detection to facilitate the movement of bicycles. These improvements retrofit existing streets to provide a useful and appropriate route of travel
for these popular modes used by Ames residents.
Locations
2024/25 Enhanced intersection crossings: Various locations requiring bicycle and pedestrian detection at arterial street crossings
2025/26 University Boulevard and Lincoln Way (protected intersection improvements)
2026/27 Wilder Boulevard (mini-roundabout corridor improvement)
2027/28 Bloomington Road and Fletcher Boulevard (enhanced pedestrian crossing)
2028/29 Location to be determined in Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan finalization
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 175,000 45,000 60,000 20,000 50,000
Construction 1,030,000 125,000 275,000 300,000 80,000 250,000
Total 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000
Total 1,205,000 125,000 320,000 360,000 100,000 300,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Shared Use Paths Public Works 060-8821-439
89 117
Shared Use Path Maintenance Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The City’s shared use path recreational and transportation system has continued to expand throughout the community. These shared use paths were typically
constructed with five inches of asphalt or concrete pavement. Structural failure, drainage problems, and vegetation infringement are several causes for the need to
improve these pavements. This annual program provides for those improvements.
Comments
The pavement management system for shared use paths is used to guide maintenance activities to segments that are in need of repair. This inventory aids in
prioritizing those segments throughout the community.
Spot repairs that are identified will be prioritized by severity of the needed repair and then addressed through the annual operations budget. Improvements to the
shared use path pavements will enhance the safety and usability of the transportation/recreational system and improve the aesthetics of the right -of-way. Newer
rehabilitation techniques such as mastic joint repair and micro-surface treatments are being utilized as a part of this program.
Beginning in FY 2023/24, funding incrementally increases to $450,000 annually. This will provide for a system-wide maintenance schedule of joint sealing and
surface slurry seal every five years, along with scheduled overlay and reconstruction for every path.
Locations
Various locations throughout Ames will be identified using pavement management data and user feedback.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 292,000 43,000 54,000 65,000 65,000 65,000
Construction 1,733,000 257,000 321,000 385,000 385,000 385,000
Total 2,025,000 300,000 375,000 450,000 450,000 450,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 2,025,000 300,000 375,000 450,000 450,000 450,000
Total 2,025,000 300,000 375,000 450,000 450,000 450,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Shared Use Paths Public Works 030-8811-439
90
118
Transportation - Traffic Improvements
Project/Funding Source Total 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Intelligent Transportation System Program 6,710,000 2,795,000 1,359,000 - - 92
Traffic System Capacity Improvements 6,190,000 3,070,000 120,000 750,000 1,500,000 93
Traffic Signal Program 2,353,000 480,000 500,000 500,000 500,000 94
Accessibility Enhancements Program 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 95
Metropolitan Transportation Plan Update 650,000 - - - 500,000 96
Regional Transportation Count Program 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 97
Total Project Expenditures 17,278,000 6,620,000 2,254,000 1,525,000 2,775,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 3,542,396 1,887,540 178,756 - 1,000,000
City:
Road Use Tax 7,328,204 1,936,460 1,004,844 1,225,000 1,275,000
Local Option Sales Tax 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Other:
MPO Planning Funds 520,000 - - - 400,000
Federal/State Grants 5,387,400 2,696,000 970,400 200,000 -
Total Other Funding 5,907,400 2,696,000 970,400 200,000 400,000
Total Funding Sources 17,278,000 6,620,000 2,254,000 1,525,000 2,775,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
91
Total City Funding 7,828,204
2024/25
2,556,000
750,000
373,000
200,000
150,000
75,000
4,104,000
476,100
1,886,900
100,000
1,986,900
120,000
1,521,000
1,641,000
4,104,000
2,036,460 1,104,844 1,325,000 1,375,000
119
Intelligent Transportation System Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The 2040 Ames Area Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) took effect in late 2015. That plan identified a wide range of transportation improvements, including
projects that utilize technology referred to as Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Traffic adaptive systems are a form of ITS infrastructure that conduct real-
time optimization of traffic and pedestrian flow at signalized intersections. Traffic adaptive systems provide a significant improvement in efficiency and will provide
reliable travel times during all times of the day. The 2045 LRTP shows the completion of the program with the sixth and final phase. Traffic signal/flow improvements
rank as one of the highest priority areas (82%) from the 2023 Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey.
Location
2024/25 Phase 4: Lincoln Way (Campustown & West Ames), South Dakota Avenue, Mortensen Road ($2,556,000)
2025/26 Phase 5: Bloomington Road, 24th Street, Stange Road, 13th Street, and North Dakota Avenue (NW Ames) ($2,795,000)
2026/27 Phase 6: South 16th Street; South Grand Avenue; South Dayton Avenue (network extensions/looping) ($1,359,000)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 720,000 274,000 300,000 146,000
Construction 5,990,000 2,282,000 2,495,000 1,213,000
Total 6,710,000 2,556,000 2,795,000 1,359,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,022,396 476,100 367,540 178,756
Road Use Tax 1,200,204 558,900 431,460 209,844
ICAAP Grant Funds 4,487,400 1,521,000 1,996,000 970,400
Total 6,710,000 2,556,000 2,795,000 1,359,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 060-7514-439
320-7514-439
385-7514-439
92
120
Traffic System Capacity Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program will address several issues identified in the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). The 2045 LRTP identified several critical intersections that
were at or nearing capacity such that improvements were needed. This program will provide for the planning, design, and construction of those improvements.
Comments
All the locations except for the FY 2026/27 project were identified in the Grand Avenue Intersections Improvement Study that was accepted by City Council in
October 2022.
The FY 2028/29 project includes pavement reconstruction along 24th Street on both sides of Grand Avenue. This pavement reconstruction work was originally
programmed in the Arterial Street Pavement Improvements in the 2022-2027 CIP but was eliminated in the 2023-2028 CIP due to budget constraints.
Location
2024/25 13th Street and Grand Avenue intersection improvement (conceptual design and Right-of-Way)
2025/26 13th Street and Grand Avenue intersection improvement (construction) (shared use path portion $150,000)
2026/27 Lincoln Way corridor study (Grand Avenue to Duff Avenue)
2027/28 20th Street and Grand Avenue Intersection Improvements
2028/29 24th Street and Grand Avenue Intersection Improvements
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 988,000 250,000 233,000 120,000 135,000 250,000
Land/ROW 500,000 500,000
Construction 6,190,000 2,837,000 615,000 1,250,000
Total 7,678,000 750,000 3,070,000 120,000 750,000 1,500,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 2,520,000 1,520,000 1,000,000
Road Use Tax 2,770,000 750,000 850,000 120,000 550,000 500,000
State Grants 900,000 700,000 200,000
Total 750,000 3,070,000 120,000 750,000 1,500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 060-7525-439
93
7,678,000
121
Traffic Signal Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Traffic Signal Program is the annual program that provides for replacing older traffic signals and for constructing new t raffic signals in the City. This will result in
improved visibility, reliability, and appearance of signals.
Although recent advances in technology have elongated the normal, useful life for traffic signal installations well past the previously expected 25 years, some of the
older-generation traffic signals still in use exceed their functional age. Components at those installations (including conduits, w iring, signal heads, and poles) need
to be completely replaced. This program also provides funding for those maintenance needs as well as the necessary upgrading of the traffic signal system as
technology continues to change. In recent years, traffic signal replacements have included radar detection systems instead of in -pavement loop detection systems
that frequently failed. Another advantage of the radar detection system is that it detects bicycles as well as motor vehicles.
Comments
Increasing material costs (specifically for copper wiring and steel for the poles and mast arms) and additional federal design requirements (such as additional ADA
facilities) have resulted in an increased cost for each standard traffic signal. Staff tracks cost trends and will adjust projected funding for this program each annual
CIP cycle. When a full replacement is not necessary, staff will identify equipment within existing signal locations that can be replaced to achieve similar operational
improvements to a major reconstruction.
Locations
2024/25 University Boulevard and South 16th Street signal replacement
2025/26 South Duff Avenue/South Third Street
2026/27 University Boulevard and Lincoln Way signal replacement
2027/28 University Boulevard and Mortensen Road signal replacement
2028/29 Lincoln Way and Marshall Avenue signal replacement
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 225,000 23,000 50,000 52,000 50,000 50,000
Construction 2,128,000 350,000 430,000 448,000 450,000 450,000
Total 2,353,000 373,000 480,000 500,000 500,000 500,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 2,353,000 373,000 480,000 500,000 500,000 500,000
Total 2,353,000 373,000 480,000 500,000 500,000 500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 060-7555-439
94
122
Accessibility Enhancement Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program combines sidewalk and pedestrian ramp improvements with additional accessibility upgrades at traffic signals and other publicly owned
parking facilities. The program provides for removing and replacing sidewalk intersection crosswalk panels and handicap ramps at locations that fail to meet the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirement to have truncated dome warning panels installed. It also includes retrofitting existing signalized traffic control
devices with audible and vibrotactile pushbuttons, as well as upgrading parking stalls to current accessibility standards in any on-street location or parking lot
owned by the City of Ames. Wherever possible, this program is combined with and used in conjunction with other roadway, traffic signal replacement, or shared
use path improvement projects for pedestrian ramp reconstruction.
This program provides safer pedestrian facilities and limits the City’s liability for injury to residents using public sidewa lks in a deteriorated condition. The program
also improves ADA accessibility at municipal facilities.
Comments
City Staff surveyed stakeholders to help prioritize the retrofitting of existing traffic signals that currently do not have audible and vibrotactile operation . These
locations will be prioritized along with other ADA improvement needs that are identified throughout the year.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 150,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Construction 850,000 170,000 170,000 170,000 170,000 170,000
Total 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Local Option Sales Tax 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Total 1,000,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 200,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 030-7510-439,
060-7510-439
95 123
Metropolitan Transportation Plan Update Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The FY 2024/25 project is for completion of a Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) plan. This plan is defined as a set of integrated
strategies to optimize the performance of operations on existing infrastructure through implementation of multi -modal, cross jurisdictional systems, services, and
projects. This is a new plan for the region that will provide the ability to apply for safety funding on future transportation projects.
The FY 2028/29 project will update the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) for the Ames region. This was previously referred to as the Long Range
Transportation Plan. Typically, an update to the MTP takes approximately 24 months to complete. The federal government requires that the MTP be updated every
five years. Therefore, this update must be completed and approved by late 2030.
Comments
FY 2023/24 $500,000 Metro Plan Update
FY 2024/25 $150,000 Metro Plan Update
$650,000
FY 2028/29 $500,000 Metro Plan Update
FY 2029/30 $150,000 Metro Plan Update
$650,000
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 650,000 150,000 500,000
Total 650,000 150,000 500,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax Fund 130,000 30,000 100,000
MPO Planning Funds 520,000 120,000 400,000
Total 650,000 150,000 500,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 060-7501-439
329-7501-439
96
124
Regional Transportation Count Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
There is an ongoing need for transportation-related data in the Ames regional area. This program is for the collection and management of travel demand data from
all transportation modes including walking, biking, and various forms of motorized travel. Data from this program will be used to track critical transportation system
performance measures which are used to analyze and forecast transportation system needs and priorities. The funding included each year is an annual base for
data collections services.
Comments
The data collectors continuously record traffic volume, speed, and classification on arterial and collector streets throughout the network. This data support s long-
range transportation planning and modeling efforts, as well as pavement management, safety analysis, and other system performance measures as needed.
Each year, traffic improvements rank as one of the highest priority areas from the Ames Resident Satisfaction Survey.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Traffic Improvements Public Works 060-7515-439
97 125
2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
350,000 400,000 400,000 400,000 99
150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 100
30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 101
- - - 250,000 102
530,000 580,000 580,000 830,000
530,000 580,000 580,000 830,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
98
Street Rehabilitation
Project/Funding Source
Project:
Pavement Restoration
Neighborhood Curb Replacement Program
Streetscape Enhancements
Lincoln Way Bridge Replacement
Total Project Expenditures
Funding Sources:
City:
Road Use Tax
Total Funding Sources
Total
1,850,000
900,000
150,000
250,000
3,150,000
3,150,000
3,150,000
2024/25
300,000
300,000
30,000
-
630,000
630,000
630,000 530,000 580,000 580,000 830,000
126
Pavement Restoration Project Status: Cost Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This annual program is for preventive and proactive surface maintenance that does not involve structural changes to the street. This allows for a large variety of
possible maintenance activities, including slurry seal, full-depth concrete paving, milling and patching of asphalt, joint sealing, diamond grinding, partial depth
patching, and new maintenance techniques to preserve and enhance the City’s streets.
Comments
Funding for this program will increase incrementally annually up to $400,000 in FY 2026/27. The cost increase is due to rising material and contracting costs for
pavement restoration priorities in this program to help extend the longevity of the pavement system and supplement other pavement restoration activities. Priorities
for this program are identified using information from the pavement management system and input from citizens and maintenance crews.
Location
Locations will be coordinated with street construction to gain the best possible life cycle of streets.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 1,850,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Total 1,850,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 1,850,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Total 1,850,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 400,000 400,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Rehabilitation Public Works 060-7723-439
99 127
Neighborhood Curb Replacement Program Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This is the annual program for replacement of deteriorated curb and gutter in selected neighborhood areas. Curb and gutter re placement enhances neighborhood
and right-of-way aesthetics and provides for better storm water drainage.
Areas to receive curb and gutter replacement are selected by staff using input of neighborhoods, the condition of the curb, and the extent of needed repairs.
Comments
The Neighborhood Curb Replacement Program decision criteria approved by the City Council includes the extent of curb deterioration, the number of residential
structures on the block, and the longitudinal grade. Locations are coordinated with other pavement improvement locations in the CIP.
Location
2024/25 East 16th Street (Duff Avenue to Maxwell Avenue)
2025/26 Ferndale Avenue (20th Street to 24th Street)
2026/27 Washington Avenue (S. 2nd Street to South 3rd Street)
2027/28 Washington Avenue (Lincoln Way to South 2nd Street)
2028/29 To Be Decided
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 110,000 30,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000
Construction 790,000 270,000 130,000 130,000 130,000 130,000
Total 900,000 300,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 900,000 300,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Total 900,000 300,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Rehabilitation Public Works 060-7770-439
100
128
Streetscape Enhancements Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project provides for the enhancement of the rights-of-way in the City of Ames. The funding may be used for several elements including retaining walls,
entryway enhancements and median enhancements.
Comments
In addition to retaining wall repairs, the entryway enhancement portion could be used to enhance or repair other right-of-way elements such as decorative signs,
benches, and monuments.
Location
Various
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Streetscape Enhancements 150,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Total 150,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax 150,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Total 150,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Rehabilitation Public Works 060-7731-439
101 129
Lincoln Way Bridge Replacement Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program provides funding for necessary repairs recommended by the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) biennial bridge inspections report. The IDOT
requires inspections for bridges within the City of Ames every two years.
Comments
Biennial bridge inspections performed in 2022 indicated that the Lincoln Way Bridge over Ioway Creek is beginning to experience deterioration to the extent that
planning for large-scale repairs or replacement is necessary in the near future. The bridge has a sufficiency rating of 80 out of 100 based upon the inspection data
from 2022. The bridge substructure is rated as Fair, while the bridge deck is rated as Minor Deterioration. A feasibility study was conducted in late 2022 which
provided a high-level view of repair and replacement options. This study concluded that repair costs would likely be between 35% to 45% of the cost of a
replacement bridge. The repairs would likely only be sufficient for an additional 15 to 20 years before additional work is required, where replacement costs would
extend the bridge life out to 75 years or beyond. Funding is included in FY 2028/29 to begin design and planning for the replacement of the existing bridge with
anticipation that the replacement would be planned for FY 2029/30 . The bridge will continue to be inspected biennially unless conditions warrant an accelerated
inspection schedule.
2028/29 Lincoln Way Bridge over Ioway Creek – Design Phase
2029/30 Lincoln Way Bridge over Ioway Creek – Construction Phase
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Financing:
Road Use Tax Fund 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Street Rehabilitation Public Works
102
130
Transit System
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Vehicle Replacement 15,108,901 583,480 4,651,446 3,570,803 3,676,727 2,626,445 104
CyRide Facility Improvements 3,370,000 80,000 830,000 830,000 830,000 800,000 105
CyRide Technology Improvements 320,388 120,388 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 106
CyRide Shop/Office Equipment 799,000 291,400 254,400 124,400 64,400 64,400 107
Bus Stop Improvements 505,000 95,000 100,000 100,000 105,000 105,000 108
Total Project Expenditures 20,103,289 1,170,268 5,885,846 4,675,203 4,726,127 3,645,845
Funding Sources:
City:
Transit Capital Reserve 5,898,030 596,000 1,691,096 1,356,230 1,334,015 920,689
Other:
Federal/State Grants 14,205,259 574,268 4,194,750 3,318,973 3,392,112 2,725,156
Total Funding Sources 20,103,289 1,170,268 5,885,846 4,675,203 4,726,127 3,645,845
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
103 131
Project Status: Cost Change Revenue Change Advanced City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
CyRide will replace buses in the fleet as grant funding opportunities arise to ensure vehicles are in a state of good repair, as required by the Federal Transit
Administration. CyRide anticipates future state funding for new buses through the state’s capital funding allocation process. Staff will continue to look for other grant
opportunities to continue moving toward a more sustainable fleet. CyRide’s Zero -Emission roadmap, developed by the Center for Transportation and the Environment
(CTE) and approved by the Transit Board, supports up to 17 battery electric buses in the current fa cility and on the existing routes. CyRide has five vehicles used
for administrative support in the operations division for drivers to utilize when switching shifts.
In total, these purchases are programmed as follows:
2024/25 Replace one 40-foot bus ($543,480); replace one administrative vehicle
2025/26 Replace six 40-foot buses ($3,550,446); replace one 40-foot bus with a battery electric bus ($1,061,000); replace one administrative vehicle
2026/27 Replace four 40-foot buses ($2,437,973); replace one 40-foot bus with a battery electric bus ($1,092,830); replace one administrative vehicle
2027/28 Replace four 40-foot buses ($2,511,112); replace one 40-foot bus with a battery electric bus ($1,125,615); replace one administrative vehicle
2028/29 Replace four 40-foot bus ($2,586,445); replace one administrative vehicle
Comments
New buses will be funded with 80-85% federal funding, including the State of Iowa’s Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program (ICAAP) funds, which are a distribution of
federal dollars.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Large Buses - 40' New 14,908,901 543,480 4,611,446 3,530,803 3,636,727 2,586,445
Large Buses - 60' New
Administrative Vehicles 200,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000 40,000
Dial-A-Ride Bus/Van
Total 15,108,901 583,480 4,651,446 3,570,803 3,676,727 2,626,445
Financing:
Transit Fund 3,639,952 121,522 1,112,696 907,830 940,615 557,289
PTMS Funds 10,793,949 461,958 3,313,750 2,437,973 2,511,112 2,069,156
STP Funds 675,000 225,000 225,000 225,000
Total 15,108,901 583,480 4,651,446 3,570,803 3,676,727 2,626,445
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Transit CyRide
104
CyRide Vehicle Replacement/Rehabilitation
Description/Justification
552-1159-439
552-1169-439
132
CyRide Facility Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The CyRide facility is 40 years old and major components of the building are nearing the end of their useful life. Additionally, the facility houses more vehicles than
it was initially designed for, creating additional wear and tear and a need to explore expansion options. This plan has been developed to keep the current facility in
a state of good repair, as required by the Federal Transit Administration.
2024/25 Concrete replacement; architectural and engineering (A & E) services
2025/26 Building fire suppression upgrades for battery electric buses ($750,000); concrete replacement, A & E services
2026/27 Fueling system upgrade ($750,000); concrete replacement; A & E services
2027/28 Construct an addition onto existing facility ($750,000); concrete replacement; A & E services
2028/29 Construct an addition onto existing facility ($750,000); A & E services
Comments
With the expansion of battery electric buses to the fleet, a building fire suppression system will be necessary to mitigate battery fire risks within the facility. A
fueling system upgrade will replace the existing fueling system with one that is faster, has less waste, and is more environme ntally sustainable. A & E services
would provide technical expertise during the various construction projects and assist with preparing bid documents. Concrete replacement is budgeted each fiscal
year to replace concrete around the facility as it fails. The CIP assumes a CyRide facility expansion as funding sources are identified. To date, CyRide has
reserved $3,715,166 in local match dollars for a grant to begin construction.
Location
CyRide, 601 North University Boulevard.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Architectural/Engineering 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Concrete 120,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
Construction 3,000,000 750,000 750,000 750,000 750,000
Total 3,370,000 80,000 830,000 830,000 830,000 800,000
Financing:
Transit Fund 970,000 80,000 230,000 230,000 230,000 200,000
State of Iowa - PTIG 2,400,000 600,000 600,000 600,000 600,000
Total 3,370,000 80,000 830,000 830,000 830,000 800,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Transit CyRide 552-1159-439
552-1169-439
105 133
CyRide Technology Improvements Project Status: Cost Change Revenue Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Advancements in technology have grown significantly over the past several years. As a result, CyRide will incorporate the following:
• Bus Technology/Signage: CyRide will continue investing in bus technology to improve system efficiency and ride experience for passengers with
disabilities. Interior signs displaying upcoming stops will be expanded to additional vehicles, and obsolete advertising scr eens will be retrofitted with new
equipment. These signs will be supported with 80% federal funding.
Comments
CyRide recently purchased demand response software to help manage existing and future demand response service offerings. This purchase includes internal
management tools and a passenger-facing app for scheduling rides. Flexible transit services are vital to expanding transit access in community areas not well
served by the existing fixed route bus lines.
Location
CyRide, 601 North University Boulevard
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Bus Technology 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Infotainment Signage 70,388 70,388
Total 320,388 120,388 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Financing:
Transit Fund 264,078 64,078 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Federal 5310 Grants 56,310 56,310
Total 320,388 120,388 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Transit CyRide 552-1159-439
552-1169-439
106
134
CyRide Shop and Office Equipment Project Status: Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The FY 2024/25 office equipment expenditures include the replacement of computers, laptops, printers , office chairs, and stand-up style desks at an estimated
cost of $14,400. Except for stand-up desks, these expenditures will be used to replace old and obsolete equipment.
The CyRide Maintenance Division uses specialized equipment to maintain buses and to stay in compliance with Federal Transit A dministration regulations
regarding vehicle maintenance. Expenditures in this category can be difficult to predict as some of the equipment is up to 40 years old and is still reliable;
therefore, CyRide has historically budgeted between $45,000 and $50,000 each fiscal year for shop equipment. Over the next th ree years, CyRide Maintenance is
planning to purchase several pieces of equipment. This includes specialized equipment to help maintain the growing fleet of a rticulated buses as well as a tire
balancer and an alignment rack.
2024/25 Tire Balancer ($27,000), Steam Clean Hoist ($150,000), Shop Equipment ($50,000), Auxiliary Heaters ($50,000), Computer Replacement
2025/26 Snow Removal Equipment ($40,000), Inground Bus Lift ($150,000), Shop Equipment ($50,000), Computer Replacement
2026/27 60-inch Brake Press ($25,000), Alignment Rack ($35,000), Shop Equipment ($50,000)
2027/28 Shop Equipment ($50,000), Computer Replacement
2028/29 Shop Equipment ($50,000), Computer Replacement
Location
CyRide, 601 North University Boulevard
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Computers/ Office Equipment 72,000 14,400 14,400 14,400 14,400 14,400
Shop Equipment 677,000 227,000 240,000 110,000 50,000 50,000
Auxiliary Heaters (buses) 50,000 50,000
Total 799,000 291,400 254,400 124,400 64,400 64,400
Financing:
Transit Fund 799,000 291,400 254,400 124,400 64,400 64,400
Total 799,000 291,400 254,400 124,400 64,400 64,400
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Transit CyRide 552-1159-439
107 135
Bus Stop Improvements Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Over the past several years CyRide has seen a significant shift in riding patterns . CyRide is in the process of updating the bus stop improvement plan to ensure
improvements enhance the passenger experience for the greatest number of riders. Additionally, the Iowa Department of Transportation issued a report with
recommended bus stop improvements along their roadways, which will be incorporated into the updated plan.
CyRide will continue to use automatic passenger counters (APCs) to measure the number of passengers boarding and alighting at bus stops, ensuring that bus
stop amenities improve and enhance the passenger experience for the greatest number of riders . CyRide also added local funding for small concrete replacement
projects.
Comments
Funding for shelter improvements is 80% federally funded from Federal Transit Administration Section 5310 funding.
Location
Various locations throughout Ames.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Pads, Benches, Shelters 350,000 70,000 70,000 70,000 70,000 70,000
Concrete 155,000 25,000 30,000 30,000 35,000 35,000
Total 505,000 95,000 100,000 100,000 105,000 105,000
Financing:
Transit Fund 225,000 39,000 44,000 44,000 49,000 49,000
Federal 5310 Grants 280,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000
Total 505,000 95,000 100,000 100,000 105,000 105,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Transit CyRide 552-1159-439
552-1169-439
108
136
Airport
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Airside Improvements 18,282,500 865,000 6,834,000 6,833,500 3,750,000 -
Airport Entryway Improvements 1,720,000 680,000 115,000 - 395,000 530,000 111
Airport Facility Improvements 1,671,500 250,000 696,500 725,000 - - 112
Total Project Expenditures 21,674,000 1,795,000 7,645,500 7,558,500 4,145,000 530,000
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 3,610,000 680,000 806,500 778,500 815,000 530,000
City:
Airport Improvements Fund 600,000 155,000 115,000 25,000 305,000 -
Other:
Federal Aviation Administration 16,005,500 735,000 6,150,500 6,375,000 2,745,000 -
Federal/State Grants 1,458,500 225,000 573,500 380,000 280,000 -
Total Other Funding Sources: 17,464,000 960,000 6,724,000 6,755,000 3,025,000 -
Total Funding Sources 21,674,000 1,795,000 7,645,500 7,558,500 4,145,000 530,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
109
110
137
Airport Airside Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Increase City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program involves enhancing the airport's operational surfaces by resurfacing and expanding runways, taxiways, and aprons, alo ng with installing updated
lighting and signage for safety and standard compliance. It aligns with FAA guidelines, focusing on safe, efficient design and layout of airport facilities. Furthermore,
it meets the FAA's Airport Improvement Program criteria for funding, addressing key safety improvements in airport infrastructure safety, capacity, security, and
environmental aspects.
Comments
This program's project selection is guided by the Airport Master Plan, which is developed in consultation with City staff and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
These collaborative evaluations focus on assessing the current and future needs of the airport facilities. This ensures that the chosen projects align with both local
priorities and federal funding eligibility criteria. Grant funds are allocated based on a national scoring system for all General Aviation Airport projects submitted in
that respective year’s funding cycle.
2024/25 Reconstruct runway 01/19 - design ($735,000 FAA; $130,000 Airport Improvements Fund)
2025/26 Reconstruct runway 01/19 - construction north ($6,150,500 FAA; $683,500 G.O. Bonds)
2026/27 Reconstruct runway 01/19 - construction south ($6,150,000 FAA; $683,500 G.O. Bonds)
2027/28 Reconstruct runway 13/31 - pavement rehabilitation ($450,000 FAA; $50,000 Airport Improvements Fund); lighting ($280,000 state grants; $70,000
G.O. Bonds); Taxiway B - pavement rehabilitation ($1,530,000 FAA; $170,000 Airport Improvements Fund); lighting ($350,000 G.O. Bonds); Taxiway
A - pavement rehabilitation ($765,000 FAA; $85,000 Airport Improvements Fund)
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 4,570,625 216,250 1,708,500 1,708,375 937500
Construction 13,711,875 648,750 5,125,500 5,125,125 2812500
Total 18,282,500 865,000 6,834,000 6,833,500 3,750,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,787,000 683,500 683,500 420,000
Airport Improvements Fund 435,000 130,000 305,000
FAA Funding 15,780,500 735,000 6,150,500 6,150,000 2,745,000
State Grants 280,000 280,000
Total 18,282,500 865,000 6,834,000 6,833,500 3,750,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Airport
Public Works 502-7082-439
110
138
Airport Entryway Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Decrease City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program includes enhancing airport access by reconstructing the main entry road and upgrading signage to improve traffic flow efficiency. This aligns with the
FAA's Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which, although primarily concentrated on airside and specific facilities, underscor es the significance of overall airport
functionality, particularly in terms of accessibility and operational efficiency.
Comments
The program's projects include the main access road improvement, expanding paved parking, and enhancing the central entryway landscaping. This program aligns
with the Airport Master Plan goals and adheres to FAA best practices.
2024/25 Airport entrance road improvements
2025/26 Landscaping central entryway greenspace
2027/28 Airport parking expansion (southern half)
2028/29 Airport parking expansion (northern half)
Location
2520 Airport Drive
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 220,000 80,000 15,000 55,000 70,000
Construction 1,500,000 600,000 100,000 340,000 460,000
Total 1,720,000 680,000 115,000 395,000 530,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,605,000 680,000 395,000 530,000
Airport Improvements Fund 115,000 115,000
Total 1,720,000 680,000 115,000 395,000 530,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Airport
Public Works 385-7080-439
111 139
Airport Facility Improvements Project Status: Scope Change Cost Increase City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This program focuses on upgrading airport facilities, including building enhancements, stormwater basin improvements, and fuel far m modernization for safety and
storage. These improvements, aimed at boosting infrastructure resilience and minimizing environment al impacts, align with the FAA's Airport Improvement Program.
Comments
The following projects enhance airport safety, capacity, security, and environmental efficiency . Grant funds are allocated based on a national scoring system for all
General Aviation Airport projects submitted in that year’s funding cycle.
2024/25 Drainage improvements ($225,000 federal grant; $25,000 Airport Improvements Fund)
2025/26 Relocate the National Weather Service’s Automated Surface Observing Systems (ASOS) from the old terminal ($148,500 federal grant; $16,500
G.O. bonds); Fuel farm replacement - jet fuel tank ($425,000 state grants; $106,500 G.O. bonds)
2026/27 Old terminal demolition ($225,000 FAA ; $25,000 Airport Improvements Fund); Fuel farm replacement – av gas tank ($380,000 state grants; $95,000
G.O. bonds).
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering 305,375 62,500 174,125 68,750
Construction 1,366,125 187,500 522,375 656,250
Total 1,671,500 250,000 696,500 725,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 218,000 123,000 95,000
Airport Improvements Fund 50,000 25,000 25,000
FAA 225,000 225,000
Federal Grants 373,500 225,000 148,500
State Grants 805,000 425,000 380,000
Total 1,671,500 250,000 696,500 725,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Transportation - Airport
Public Works 502-7078-439
112
140
CULTURE & RECREATION
CULTURE &RECREATION
141
Culture and Recreation
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures:
Parks and Recreation 28,044,823 22,304,804 2,857,859 1,123,500 864,380 894,280 114
Library 47,304 47,304 - - - - 126
Cemetery 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 - 128
Total Expenditures 28,242,127 22,352,108 2,932,859 1,123,500 939,380 894,280
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 19,255,375 17,378,016 1,877,359 - - -
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 4,620,500 927,840 1,055,500 873,500 869,380 894,280
Ice Arena Capital Reserve 145,000 25,000 - 100,000 20,000 -
Total City Funding 4,765,500 952,840 1,055,500 973,500 889,380 894,280
Other:
Private Donations 2,652,571 2,652,571 - - - -
American Rescue Plan 868,681 868,681 - - - -
Grant Funding 700,000 500,000 - 150,000 50,000 -
Total City Funding 4,221,252 4,021,252 - 150,000 50,000 -
Total Funding Sources 28,242,127 22,352,108 2,932,859 1,123,500 939,380 894,280
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
113 142
Parks and Recreation
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center 21,876,627 20,699,268 1,177,359 - - - 115
Park System/Facility Improvements 1,393,420 150,000 406,500 386,520 325,400 125,000 117
Splash Pad 556,036 556,036 - - - - 118
Playground Equipment Improvements 1,198,740 74,500 149,000 236,980 168,980 569,280 119
ADA Transition Plan Improvements 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 120
Ada Hayden Heritage Park 1,650,000 700,000 700,000 - 250,000 - 121
Ames/ISU Ice Arena 145,000 25,000 - 100,000 20,000 - 122
Moore Memorial Park 375,000 - 75,000 300,000 - - 123
Homewood Golf Course 250,000 - 250,000 - - - 124
Furman Aquatic Center 100,000 - - - - 100,000 125
Total Project Expenditures 28,044,823 22,304,804 2,857,859 1,123,500 864,380 894,280
Funding Sources:
Debt:
G.O. Bonds 19,255,375 17,378,016 1,877,359 - - -
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 4,423,196 880,536 980,500 873,500 794,380 894,280 Ice Arena Capital Reserve 145,000 25,000 - 100,000 20,000 -
Total City Funding 4,568,196 905,536 980,500 973,500 814,380 894,280
Other:
Private Donations 2,652,571 2,652,571 - - - - American Rescue Plan 868,681 868,681 - - - -
Grant Funding 700,000 500,000 - 150,000 50,000 -
Total Other Funding 4,221,252 4,021,252 - 150,000 50,000 -
Total Funding Sources 28,044,823 22,304,804 2,857,859 1,123,500 864,380 894,280
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
114
143
Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center Project Status: Scope Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center will be located at 115 North Elm Street, which the City purchased from the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) in
January 2023 for $2.9 million. The proposed Center will have a one-story building and contain a 25-yard six-lane lap pool, a zero-depth entry pool with a play
structure, a current channel, a wellness pool, slide, locker rooms (men’s, women’s, and gender neutral), and party/meeting rooms. These components have been
packaged together in a base bid. Additionally, three add alternates have been included, 1) Multi-purpose space and walking area; 2) Heating to main entry concrete;
and 3) Tile edge to the lap and recreation pools. Construction is estimated to begin in April 2024, with the Center opening in November 2025.
Comments
Indoor Aquatic Center Estimated Project Schedule:
Funding:
FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 FY 2022/23 FY 2023/24 FY 2024/25 FY 2025/26 Total
Hotel/Motel Tax $ 22,000 $ 42,218 $ 675 $ - - - $ 64,893
G.O. Bonds - - 1,000,000 1,000,000 16,678,016 1,177,359 $ 19,855,375
Geitel Winakor Donation Fund - - - 1,950,000 - - $ 1,950,000
Donations - - 2,733,647 2,975,527 2,652,571 - $ 8,361,745
Community Attraction & Tourism (CAT) Grant - - - - 500,000 - $ 500,000
Story County Contribution - - - 500,000 - - $ 500,000
ARPA Funding - - - - 868,681 - $ 868,681
Total $ 22,000 $ 42,218 $ 3,734,322 $ 6,425,527 20,699,268 $ 1,177,359 $ 32,100,694
Location
115 North Elm Street
Expenses:
FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 FY 2022/23 FY 2023/24 FY 2024/25 FY 2025/26 Total
Conceptual Design/ Environmental Testing $ 22,000 $ 42,218 $ 675 $ - - - $ 64,893
Land - - 2,900,000 - - - $ 2,900,000
Relocate Electric Lines - - 75,000 - - - $ 75,000
Design - - 523,320 871,727 271,848 116,955 $ 1,783,850
Remediation/Mitigation - - - 500,000 500,000 - $ 1,000,000
Construction Manager (CM) - - 135,327 300,000 837,948 118,954 $ 1,392,229
Soils, Survey, Testing (SST) - - 100,000 145,000 145,000 - $ 390,000
Construction (Base Bid) - - - 3,558,800 16,573,355 141,450 $ 20,273,605
Furniture, Fixtures, & Equipment (FFE) - - - - 500,000 - $ 500,000
Base Project Subtotal $ 22,000 $ 42,218 $ 3,734,322 $ 5,375,527 $ 18,828,151 $ 377,359 $ 28,379,577
Owner’s Contingency - - - $ 1,050,000 $ 1,050,000 - $ 2,100,000
Add Alternates - - - - 821,117 800,000 $ 1,621,117
Base Project Total $ 22,000 $ 42,218 $ 3,734,322 $ 6,425,527 $ 20,699,268 $ 1,177,359 $ 32,100,694
115 144
Conceptual Base Bid and Add Alternate Floor Plan Conceptual Rendering of Base Bid and Add Alternate (Walking and Multi-Purpose Areas)
Zero-depth Entry Pool with Current Channel Lap Pool
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
1,990,705 1,754,796 235,909
1,550,000 1,550,000 18,335,922 17,394,472 941,450 21,876,627 20,699,268 1,177,359
17,855,375 16,678,016 1,177,359 2,652,571 2,652,571 500,000 500,000 868,681 868,681
21,876,627 20,699,268 1,177,359
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
Cost:
Design, CM, FFE, & SST
Remediation and Contingency
Construction
Total
Financing:
G.O. Bonds
Donations
Community Attraction & Tourism Grant
ARPA Funding
Total
116
145
Park System/Facility Improvements Project Status: Schedule Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
To maintain City parks in a safe and quality manner, the projects listed below address maintenance issues and improvements at various locations.
Comments
2024/25 Refinish Community Center wood gymnasium floor ($150,000)
2025/26 Replace sound system at Auditorium ($150,000); install 20 parking spots by Cottonwood Shelter in North River Valley Park ($206,500); add
gutters to the hill drive at Emma McCarthy Lee Park ($50,000)
2026/27 Add parking near soccer fields at North River Valley Park ($313,020); replace weight and cardio room floor in Community Center ($40,000);
upgrades to Tom Evans Plaza ($33,500) 2027/28 Renovate canoe/kayak access ($50,000) at River Valley Park; renovate canoe/kayak access at South 16 th Street ($50,000); remove light
poles on the baseball field at Brookside Park ($100,000); replace Cottonwood Shelter at River Valley Park ($125,400)
2028/29 Renovate restroom in North River Valley Park ($125,000)
The schedule change and cost change are the result of staff reprioritization.
Location
Various
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 1,393,420 150,000 406,500 386,520 325,400 125,000
Total 1,393,420 150,000 406,500 386,520 325,400 125,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds
Local Option Sales Tax 1,343,420 150,000 406,500 386,520 275,400 125,000
Grants 50,000 50,000
Total 1,393,420 150,000 406,500 386,520 325,400 125,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation Various
117 146
Splash Pad Project Status: New City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
A 5,000 square foot splash pad with multiple spray features is planned to be constructed in Daley Park, 340 Wilder Boulevard. Ames residents have been asking for
this amenity for some time and it has been shown in the CIP as early as FY 2017/18. City Council has directed staff to design the splash pad with a recirculation
system which is similar to what is used in a swimming pool. The capital costs for this project increase because of the recirculation system due to the addition of
recirculation pumps, balance tank, disinfection system, and additional restroom/shower facilities. However, the annual operational costs are much lower due to much
lower utility costs (i.e. water and sanitary sewer).
Comments
The budget for this project is shown below:
Expenses: 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Total
Design $2,175 $2,900 $2,175 $69,250 $76,500
Construction $1,272,892 $1,272,892
Expenses Total: $2,175 $2,900 $2,175 $69,250 $1,272,892 $1,349,392
Funding:
Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) $30,000 $300,000 $556,036 $ 886,036
General Fund $200,000 $ 200,000
Project Savings – LOST $33,915 $198,269 $ 232,184
Project Savings – General Fund $31,172 $ 31,172
Funding Total: $30,000 $500,000 $33,915 $31,172 $198,269 $556,036 $1,349,392
Location
Daley Park, 340 Wilder Boulevard
Total 2024/25 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 556,036 556,036
Total 556,036 556,036
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 556,036 556,036
Total 556,036 556,036
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
118
147
Playground Equipment Improvements Project Status: Schedule Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Over the past 25 years, the City has replaced old play equipment throughout the park system. The life expectancy of play equipment is 20–25 years. Therefore, it
is now necessary to begin replacement of playground equipment that was installed at the beginning of this cycle. This program includes a systematic plan to
continue replacing playground equipment on this cycle.
Plans call for playground equipment replacement at the locations shown below.
Comments
2024/25 Replace equipment in Patio Homes West Park ($74,500)
2025/26 Replace equipment in Parkview North Park ($75,500); replace equipment in North River Valley Park ($73,500)
2026/27 Replace equipment adjacent to Hickory Shelter in Brookside Park ($70,500); replace ages 2-5 equipment in O’Neil Park ($74,700); replace
ages 5-12 equipment in O’Neil Park ($91,780)
2027/28 Replace equipment in Old Town Park ($77,200); replace equipment adjacent Cottonwood Shelter in River Valley Park ($91,780)
2028/29 Replace ages 2-5 equipment and ages 5-12 equipment in Moore Memorial Park ($250,000); replace equipment adjacent Butternut
Shelter in Emma McCarthy Lee Park ($91,980); replace equipment in Gateway Hills Park ($77,400); replace equipment in Franklin Park
($74,900); replace a section of surfacing in Miracle Park ($75,000)
The cost change noted in the Project Status is a result of the schedule changes associated with the equipment improvements.
Location
Various
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 1,198,740 74,500 149,000 236,980 168,980 569,280
Total 1,198,740 74,500 149,000 236,980 168,980 569,280
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 1,198,740 74,500 149,000 236,980 168,980 569,280
Total 1,198,740 74,500 149,000 236,980 168,980 569,280
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation 030-5348-459
119 148
ADA Transition Plan Improvements Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
To better understand how the Parks and Recreation facilities can better serve Ames’ differently abled residents and comply with the 2010 Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design, an inventory and assessment of the park system and facilities was completed in FY 2022/23. With the information
gathered from the inventory and assessment, a transition plan is being developed to help achieve both of those goals.
In anticipation of items needing to be addressed, funding is reflected in each year of the CIP. These are estimates since costs will not be known until the transition
plan is finalized in 2024.
Comments
Actual transition plan items will be determined based on the transition plan.
Location
Various
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Total 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Total 500,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation 030-5351-459
120
149
Ada Hayden Heritage Park Project Status: Schedule Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Ada Hayden Heritage Park is the crown jewel of the Ames Park system. To keep it maintained and install new features, two projects have been identified.
The asphalt trails around the lakes are deteriorating. This project will replace the asphalt with concrete and widen the path from ten feet to twelve feet, thereby
facilitating safe use by more users of the path.
The pond is located in the northwest section of the park north of the upland trail. It is an excellent location for creating a child-friendly fishing location. Dredging the
pond and adding a fishing dock, a solar operated aerator, a path around the pond, and a new outlet structure are all components of this project.
Schedule change is a delay in the pond renovation.
Comments
2024/25 Replace path around south lake
2025/26 Replace path around north lake
2027/28 Pond renovation
Location
Ada Hayden Heritage Park, 5205 Grand Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 1,650,000 700,000 700,000 250,000
Total 1,650,000 700,000 700,000 250,000
Financing:
G.O. Bonds 1,400,000 700,000 700,000
Local Option Sales Tax 250,000 250,000
Total 1,650,000 700,000 700,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation 385-5389-459
121 150
Ames/ISU Ice Arena Project Status: Scope Change Cost Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Ames/ISU Ice Arena is over 22 years old. In order to continue providing a quality experience and well-maintained facility for ice users, the ice-making, HVAC,
and other unique equipment components need to be periodically reconstructed, replaced, or repaired:
Comments
Funding for capital improvement projects is provided through the Ice Arena Capital Reserve Fund. Every year, the City and Iow a State University each contribute
$40,000 to this fund to ensure the facility is well-maintained. It is estimated that as of June 30, 2024, the fund balance will be $46,042.
2024/25 Replace water heaters
2026/27 Ice-making system (compressor #1) complete overhaul
2027/28 Ice-making system (compressor #2) top-end overhaul
Location
Ames/ISU Ice Arena, 1505 Gateway Hills Park Drive
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 145,000 25,000 100,000 20,000
Total 145,000 25,000 100,000 20,000
Financing:
Ice Arena Capital Reserve Fund 145,000 25,000 100,000 20,000
Total 145,000 25,000 100,000 20,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation 571-5336-459
122
151
Moore Memorial Park Project Status: Funding Change Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
Moore Memorial Park covers 90 acres with 50 located east of Ioway Creek and 40 west of the creek. The upper 50-acre parcel was developed into a community
park in 1991. Until 2022, the 40-acre parcel had been leased to Iowa State University as an agricultural research plot for $3,000 per year. The University farmed this
land for the final time in 2021. Parks and Recreation staff is working with Water and Pollution Control and Public Works staff to retire this land and install nutrient
reduction and water quality practices.
In response to community input to connect parks via hard surface trails, a pedestrian bridge will link these two parcels of City property. The plan is to then have a
trail from Moore Memorial Park along Scholl Road to Ontario Street. This improvement is viable because ISU owns the land adjacent to the City’s 40-acre parcel. In
the event ISU allows public access through its parcel, several miles of recreational trails would be linked t ogether. Staff will continue to meet with ISU officials to
acquire the necessary easements to bring this project to fruition.
This project was delayed to allow for the completion of previously approved projects.
Comments
2025/26 Engineer/design a pedestrian bridge to cross Ioway Creek at Moore Memorial Park
2026/27 Install a pedestrian bridge across Ioway Creek at Moore Memorial Park
Location
Moore Memorial Park, 3050 Northridge Parkway
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering/Design 75,000 75,000
Construction 300,000 300,000
Total 375,000 75,000 300,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 225,000 75,000 150,000
Grants 150,000 150,000
Total 375,000 75,000 300,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
123 152
Homewood Golf Course Project Status: Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The current bridge on Hole #9 was designed for walking golfers. Since the demand for motorized carts at Homewood has increased, replacing this bridge with one
designed for motorized carts will speed up play and reduce safety concerns for golfers having to drive along Hole #8 to get to the 9th green. This project was
delayed in an effort to complete previously scheduled projects.
Comments
Replace the bridge on Hole #9 so it can accommodate carts .
2023/24 Ravine Study $25,000 (Local Option Sales Tax)
2023/24 Project Design $75,000 (Homewood Golf Course Fund)
2025/26 Construction $250,000 (Local Option Sales Tax)
Location
Homewood Golf Course, 401 East 20th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Engineering
Construction 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 250,000 250,000
Total 250,000 250,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
124
153
Furman Aquatic Center Project Status: Delayed City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This facility opened in May 2010 . It has been operational for twelve seasons, with an average of 89,565 visitors per summer. To ensure it remains a quality facility,
structural and electrical issues are identified to be addressed in a systematic manner.
The current light fixtures on the deck poles at times allow water to accumulate inside the fixture, which must be drained. Replacement with LED lamps and updated
fixtures will reduce maintenance and energy consumption.
This project was delayed to allow for the completion of previously approved projects.
Comments
2028/29 Replace the light fixtures on the pool deck poles ($100,000)
Location
Furman Aquatic Center, 1365 13th Street
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 100,000 100,000
Total 100,000 100,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 100,000 100,000
Total 100,000 100,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
125 154
Library
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Library Carpet Replacement 47,304 47,304 - - - - 127
Total Project Expenditures 47,304 47,304 - - - -
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 47,304 47,304 - - - -
Other:
Private Contributions - - - - - -
Total Funding Sources 47,304 47,304 - - - -
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
126
155
Library Carpet Replacement Project Status: Cost Increase City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Ames Public Library building was expanded and completely renovated between 2012 and 2014. and was re-opened to the public on September 14, 2014. The
library sees an average of 1,300 people per day. By the time the renovated building has been in use for 10 years, the flooring will most likely have been traversed
over 4 million times and show considerable wear.
The first-floor carpet replacement includes replacing approximately 9,450 square feet of flooring in the youth services area, 2,640 square feet of flooring in the
auditorium, and 610 square feet of flooring in the entryway. Carpet tile will need to be torn out and flooring laid. Estimated pricing includes 2,540 square feet of extra
material for fitting and making minor future repairs.
The second-floor carpet replacement includes replacing approximately 6,000 square feet of flooring in the adult service area. Carpet til e will again need to be torn
out and flooring laid. Estimated pricing includes 2,418 square feet of extra material for fitting and making minor future repairs.
Comments
Pricing includes the estimated cost of materials, adhesive, and professional removal and installation. Additional funding has been added to the project due to the
estimated increase in the cost of materials and labor.
2023/24 First floor and partial funding for second floor
2024/25 Remainder of funding for second floor 47,304
$303,000
Location
515 Douglas Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Material/Labor 47,304 47,304
Total 47,304 47,304
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 47,304 47,304
Total 47,304 47,304
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Library Library/Adult Services 030-2631-459
255,696
125
156
Cemetery
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Cemetery Improvements 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 - 129
Total Project Expenditures 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 -
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 -
Total Funding Sources 150,000 - 75,000 - 75,000 -
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
128
157
Cemetery Improvements Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
To honor the memory of those buried in the City’s two active cemeteries and to provide peaceful, well-maintained locations for those who visit, this program identifies
and provides funding for improvements at the Ames Municipal Cemetery and the Ontario Cemetery.
The galvanized chain link fencing at the Ontario Cemetery nee ds replacement. A more decorative style fence like that at the Ames Municipal Cemetery will be
installed.
Cremation burials have surpassed traditional burials, and this trend is forecasted to continue. Purchasing three additional columbaria will position the City to be able
to meet this demand. In anticipation of this expansion, the concrete pads for these columbaria were installed in 2022.
Comments
2025/26 Replace fencing at Ontario Cemetery ($75,000)
2027/28 Purchase three columbaria ($75,000)
Location
Ames Municipal Cemetery, 310 East 9th Street, and Ontario Cemetery, 720 North Dakota Avenue
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 150,000 75,000 75,000
Total 150,000 75,000 75,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 150,000 75,000 75,000
Total 150,000 75,000 75,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Culture and Recreation - Parks and Recreation Parks and Recreation
129 158
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT
159
Community Development
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures:
Neighborhood Improvements 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 132
Total Expenditures 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
Total Funding Sources 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
131 160
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan Neighborhood Improvements
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
Downtown Facade Program 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 133
Campustown Façade Grant Program 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 134
Neighborhood Improvement Program 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 135
Total Project Expenditures 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
Total Funding Sources 875,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
132
161
Downtown Façade Improvement Program Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
This project was introduced in FY 2001/02 to facilitate private improvements to the façades of buildings in the Downtown area. For three years, the City did not
receive any requests for these funds.
Downtown Design Guidelines were approved by the City Council in 2001 to ensure that financial assistance for fa çade improvements is consistent with the
historical character of Downtown. The program initially started with loans but was altered by the City Council to be a grant program . To qualify for these funds,
improvements must be made to at least one of the following exterior elements: upper fa çades, storefronts, transoms, display windows, kick plates, entrances,
signs, or awnings/canopies. In FY 2011/12 the City Council expanded the program guidelines and implemented a review and award period in the spring of each
year. Additionally, to aid in comparing applications, the City Council also established a scoring process to prioritize awarding grants.
Under this program, the City provides grant funds to be matched dollar for dollar up to $23,000 per façade award. In addition, a $2,000 grant is available to
subsidize the cost of architectural services. Since 2001 the program has awarded 49 grants to downtown businesses. Of the 53 award grants, 49 were accepted
for a total of approximately $658,208 of grant funding that has been expensed. FY 2024/25 will begin with a new $75,000 allocation.
Comments
FY 2023/24 the total annual budget was increased to $75,000. In May 2023, City Council changed the individual awards maximum to $23,000 and $2,000 for
design assistance.
Location
Downtown Ames
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Incentives (Loans or Grants) 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Community Development - Downtown Façade Improvement Program Planning & Housing 030-1030-469
133 162
Campustown Façade Improvement Program Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The purpose of the Campustown Façade Improvement Program is to improve the Campustown commercial district by providing financial incentives to enhance the
appearance and use of existing buildings with commercial use. The program design is to encourage and maintain the eclectic culture and ‘uniqueness’ of
Campustown; to increase safety, security, and investments by property and business owners ; and to add to the vitality of Campustown.
This program seeks to encourage the creation of a place that is walkable, transparent, eclectic, sustainable, social, and historic. Beginning in FY 2014/15, the first
step in the process was to hire a consultant to assist the City in the development of a “Vision Statement,” prepare an “Idea Book,” review design ideas and guidelines,
help applicants wanting to apply for the program, determine costs and feasibility, and conduct workshops and working meetings with applicants and City staff. The
second step was to implement two pilot projects to include construction and evaluation.
Under this program, the City provides up to $23,000 in grant funds to be per project matched dollar for dollar. In addition, a $2,000 grant is available to subsidize
architectural costs. Through June 2022, the program has awarded seven grants to Campustown businesses and has expensed a total of $122,580 on these seven
projects. FY 2024/25 will begin with a new $50,000 allocation.
Comments
This program will address the City Council’s goal of revitalizing Campustown. Although there are annual inquiries about the program, interest has waned in recent
years for new applications. City Council amended the program in 2022 to allow for applications on a rolling basis instead of annually. Along with Downtown Façade
Grant program changes, individual grant awards were modified in May 2023.
Location
Campustown Ames
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Incentives (Loans or Grants) 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Community Development - Campustown Façade Improvement Program Planning & Housing 030-1031-469
134
163
Neighborhood Improvement Program Project Status: No Change City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Description/Justification
The Neighborhood Improvement Program was originally designed to enhance the appearance of City neighborhoods with the additio n of permanent physical
improvements and to promote a greater sense of community through resident participation in neighborhood pro jects. The program focused solely on providing City
grants to help residents accomplish those projects that they themselves identified as top priorities for their neighborhoods.
Competitive proposals are solicited from neighborhood groups and are rated by a review panel consisting of City staff and citizens, according to the following criteria
approved by the City Council: public impact, neighborhood participation, safety, environment, housing, and public space. Neig hborhood residents are expected to
provide a local match to these grants on a dollar-for-dollar basis in the form of labor, materials, and/or cash.
The program was initiated in FY 1996/97. Since that time, 126 neighborhood projects have been funded by the City, totaling $380,536.91. The City Council awarded
one grant in 2022 for $1,616.30. Projects have included cul-de-sac, right-of-way and median landscaping; playground construction and/or restoration; alleyway
beautification; street trees; pond renovation; installation of rain gardens, historic house plaques and medallions; prairie restoration; construction of a neighborhood
message center; construction of a shelter house in a City park; park sidewalks; neighborhood basketball courts; landscaping of neighborhood entryways; installation
of neighborhood barbecue grills; renovating “DZ Triangle;” Monarch butterfly habitat restoration; concrete ping pong tables in a City park, neighborhood clean-up
days, and playground equipment in a new neighborhood park. Funds from this program also support neighborhood newsletter grants.
The City is committed to creating great neighborhoods with a sense of community. To complement this initiative, eligibility for these funds has been expanded beyond
the original intent of the Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program to include such projects as sub -area planning elements and other support programs for
neighborhood associations. In addition, the application period is now open -ended with the requirement that the funds be expended within one year of City Council
approval.
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Construction 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Total 250,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
Community Development - Neighborhood Improvements Planning and Housing 030-1032-469 135 164
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
GENERALGOVERNMENT
165
General Government
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Expenditures:
Facilities 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 138
Total Expenditures 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Funding Sources:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total Funding Sources 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
137 166
Facilities
Project/Funding Source Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29 Page
Project:
City Hall Improvements 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 139
Total Project Expenditures 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Funding Source:
City:
Local Option Sales Tax 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total Funding Sources 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
City of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
138
167
Description/Justification
The City Hall Improvements program is focused on major maintenance or replacement of needed items for the City Hall building, the Veterans Memorial, and both
east and west City Hall parking lots.
City Hall’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sprinkler, and numerous other support systems were installed new in 1990. Funds are allocated yearly for equipment or
system failures that may occur beyond the City Hall operating budget funding levels. Funding was increased from previous levels in FY 2022/23 due to the increase
in materials and repair costs and the age of some of our major systems (e.g., heat pumps).
Location
City Hall, 515 Clark Avenue
City Hall Improvements Project Status: No Change City Of Ames, Iowa
Capital Improvements Plan
Total 2024/25 2025/26 2026/27 2027/28 2028/29
Cost:
Maintenance 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Financing:
Local Option Sales Tax 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Total 375,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000 75,000
Program - Activity: Department: Account Number:
General Government - Facilities Fleet Services/Facilities 030-2930-419
139 168