HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - Council Action Form dated May 26, 2026ITEM #:8
DATE:05-26-26
DEPT:ADMIN
SUBJECT:REQUESTS FROM AMES HISTORY MUSEUM FOR BIG BASH
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Ames History Museum is requesting to hold a new event in the Downtown area titled Big Bash
on Friday, July 3, 2026. The event will be held in celebration of America's 250th Anniversary.
The event will consist of a vintage car show, special exhibits in Ames History Museum,
sponsor booths with giveaways, food trucks, and kids' activities including inflatables and a
trackless train. The Museum will be open to the public with free admission. Local bands will
also perform on the Museum's patio. Setup will begin at 2:00 p.m., with the event taking place
from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., and teardown concluding by 10:00 p.m.
To facilitate these activities, event organizers are requesting the closure of Douglas Avenue
from Main Street to 5th Street and 5th Street from Kellogg Avenue to Duff Avenue , between
2:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on July 3, 2026. The vintage car show and food trucks will be
positioned within the closure on 5th Street. Sponsor booths and kids' activities will be set up
within the closure on Douglas Avenue.
The event requires the closure of 44 parking meters which results in an estimated loss to the
Parking Fund of $88. Applicants are also requesting a blanket Vending License ($50). The
applicant will be required to pay for these costs.
PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The event has received a letter of support from Ames Main Street. Event organizers indicated
that they will send emails to affected neighbors, as well as present event information to
community groups in the affected area.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the requests from Ames History Museum for the Big Bash as described above.
2. Do not approve the requests.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Big Bash provides an opportunity to attract visitors to the Downtown. The events includes
free Museum admission, a car show, kids' activities, live music, and local vendors. The
applicant has provided all necessary documentation supporting their requests, including a
letter of support from Ames Main Street. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City
Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1 as described above.
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ATTACHMENT(S):
Letter of Support Big Bash 2026
Application Big Bash 2026
Map Big Bash 2026
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