HomeMy WebLinkAboutA025 - 2023/24 Multi-Modal Roadway Improvements (Somerset Improvements - Stange Road)ITEM #:29
DATE:05-12-26
DEPT:PW
SUBJECT:2023/24 MULTI-MODAL ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS (SOMERSET
IMPROVEMENTS - STANGE ROAD)
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
At its September 23, 2025 meeting, the City Council approved a Professional Services
Agreement with Shive-Hattery, Inc., of West Des Moines, Iowa, for the 2023/24 Multi-Modal
Roadway Improvements (Somerset Improvements – Stange Road). As part of its proposal,
Shive-Hattery included a design alternative that differed from the conceptual layout included in
the Request for Proposal (RFP). These alternatives are included as attachments to this
Council Action Form, with the Shive-Hattery proposal identified as Design Alternative A and
the conceptual layout from the RFP identified as Design Alternative B.
Both alternatives reduce Stange Road to one lane in each direction between Northridge
Parkway and Aspen Road, implement all-way stop control at both intersections, provide
a dedicated bicycle facility to better separate bicyclists from pedestrians, and increase
on-street parking where feasible.
At the February 10, 2026 meeting, City Council reviewed initial feedback gathered
through coordination with the Somerset Property Owners Association and directed
staff to conduct additional outreach to properties within 400 feet of the proposed
project limits to ensure broader awareness and input, as there were questions
regarding whether prior notifications reached all stakeholders.
Staff did follow up with the Somerset Property Owners Association following the
February 10, 2026 meeting to ensure that the meeting information was included in the
email that was sent out to all dues-paying members in the association. The association
contact confirmed that the information was provided; however, it may have been
overlooked because it came from the association and not the City directly.
ADDITIONAL PUBLIC OUTREACH:
Following Council direction, staff conducted additional targeted outreach to properties
within approximately 400 feet of the project corridor. This outreach included direct mailing
notification and distribution of an online feedback form, plus additional electronic mail to the
property owner associations on both the east and west side of Stange Road.
The direct mailing represented 98 unique properties that received this additional notification.
Staff received ten (10) feedback comments that represented eight (8) unique
addresses. Feedback from both the initial and expanded outreach efforts is attached. While
the additional input reflects a wider range of perspectives, the results continue to
demonstrate support for Design Alternative A, particularly in addressing the project’s
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primary goals of improving safety and accessibility.
Across both outreach efforts, several consistent safety-related concerns were identified:
Limited visibility at the intersections of Northridge Parkway and Aspen Road
Excessive vehicle speeds through the corridor
Difficulty and safety concerns for pedestrians crossing Stange Road
Conflicts between vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians
Design Alternative A most directly addresses these concerns by reducing vehicle
speeds, improving intersection control and visibility, and providing separated facilities
for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The additional feedback did raise concerns regarding traffic flow, lane configurations,
congestion, and access. However, these concerns are generally related to route preference
and system efficiency, rather than the underlying safety issues the project is intended to
address. The project is designed and budgeted to fit within the existing pavement geometry to
address safety issues along a pedestrian heavy segment of the Stange Road corridor. Future
planning and engineering efforts could look at the Stange Road corridor in its entirety when it
is in need of full reconstruction.
Overall, the expanded outreach reaffirmed that Design Alternative A best aligns with
the community’s safety priorities and the project’s intended outcomes.
TRAFFIC IMPACTS ALONG G.W. CARVER:
As discussed at the September 23, 2025 City Council meeting, forecasted 2050 traffic volumes
do not support the need for four lanes along this segment of Stange Road. Staff anticipates
that a portion of through traffic will shift west to G.W. Carver Avenue between Bloomington
Road and 24th Street. While some increase in traffic on G.W. Carver Avenue is likely to occur,
any resulting operational issues can be more effectively managed and mitigated on that
corridor. This allows Stange Road to transition to a safer, more accessible, and context-
appropriate facility that prioritizes local access, pedestrian activity, and multimodal use.
G.W. Carver Avenue is better suited to serve as the primary through route in this area
due to its corridor characteristics, including fewer side street connections and limited
direct driveway access. These features make it more conducive to efficiently
accommodating higher traffic volumes and implementing future traffic control
measures if warranted.
In contrast, Stange Road functions as a mixed-use corridor with direct access to
adjacent businesses and residences, frequent turning movements, and higher
pedestrian and bicycle activity. As a result, traffic-related issues such as congestion,
access conflicts, and safety concerns are more difficult to address along Stange Road
without compromising the corridor’s function and safety.
CONTRACT AMENDMENT:
Based on the preference for Design Alternative A, staff worked with Shive-Hattery to prepare a
contract amendment revising the project scope to include design services for that alternative.
The original Professional Services Agreement approved by City Council was in the amount of
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$55,000. Additional services included in the amendment involve the design of a dedicated
shared-use path along the east side of the crescent green space, added pavement design for
new driveway connections serving the west-side parking area, and storm sewer modifications
to address flooding concerns identified during the public engagement process. The proposed
amendment totals $27,000.
Preliminary cost estimates for both design alternatives are included in the attachments.
Design Alternative A has an estimated cost of $546,745, compared to $388,889 for
Design Alternative B. The higher cost for Alternative A reflects the same additional elements
that drive the increased design scope as described above.
The project is programmed with $450,000 of Road Use Tax funding in the 2023/24 Multi-Modal
Roadway Improvements Program. Project savings from previous fiscal year projects in this
program have resulted in an available balance of $225,828 to fund the proposed contract
amendment and the higher construction cost associated with Design Alternative A. The table
below shows the anticipated revenues and expenses for the project.
Expenses Amount Revenues Amount
Design (Original
Contract)$55,000
Design Amendment
(This Council Action)$27,000
Construction (Design
Alternative A)$546,745
Administration $30,000
FY 2023/24 Multi-
Modal Roadway
Improvements
$450,000
Multi-Modal Roadway
Improvements Road
Use Tax Balance
$225,828
Totals $658,745 $675,828
Providing direction regarding the design alternative and approving the contract
amendment will allow staff to proceed with further refinement of project design with the
goal of returning to City Council at a future date for approval of plans and
specifications for 2027 construction of the project.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. a. Direct staff to proceed with Design Alternative A for the 2023/24 Multi-Modal Roadway
Improvements (Somerset Improvements - Stange Road).
b. Approve Amendment No. 1 to the design contract with Shive-Hattery, Inc. of West Des
Moines, IA, in the amount of $27,000.
2. Direct staff to proceed with Design Alternative B for the 2023/24 Multi-Modal Roadway
Improvements (Somerset Improvements - Stange Road).
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3. Direct staff to consider different design alternatives for the 2023/24 Multi-Modal Roadway
Improvements (Somerset Improvements - Stange Road).
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Based on staff evaluation and public feedback received, Design Alternative A is best
suited to address the project's goals of improving the safety of all transportation modes
through this area, and increasing the prioritization of bicycles and pedestrians traveling
to and through the area. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the
City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Design_Alternatives.pdf
Cost_Estimates.pdf
Mailing List Map (400' Buffer).png
2026-01-16 Feedback Results.pdf
2026-04-27 Feedback Results.pdf
Amendment 1 - Stange Multi-Modal.pdf
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STANGE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
CONCEPT A
CITY OF AMES | OCTOBER 2025
NORTHRIDG
E
P
A
R
K
W
A
Y
NORTHRIDG
E
P
A
R
K
W
A
Y
The majority of the existing trees would be maintained
Restripe for angled parking, adding a significant number of parking stalls
Reconstruct a portion of the median and intersection to allow for a continuous south-bound laneASPEN AVE
N
U
E
ASPEN AVE
N
U
E
S
T
A
N
G
E
R
O
A
D
Disconnect south-bound through lanes and build new parking lot driveway
Reconstruct a portion of the median and intersection to allow for a continuous south-bound lane
New paved path with
designated bike and
pedestrian routes
Maintain existing
pavement and parking
PHASE 1
Design Alternative A
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STANGE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
CONCEPT B
CITY OF AMES | OCTOBER 2025
Northridge Pkwy
Aspen Rd
Build ADA Compliant Bus Stop
Build ADA Compliant Bus Stop
Proposed = 26 + 2 ADA Angled Stalls
Existing = Approx. 18 Parallel Stalls
East Side:
Proposed = 20 Parallel Stalls
Existing = Approx. 20 Parallel Stalls
West Side:
Design Alternative B
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ITEM NO. ITEM UNIT QUANTITY UNIT PRICE DIVISION I COST
1 Clearing and Grubbing LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
2 Topsoil LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
3 Excavation, Class 10 LS 1 * 10,000.00$ =10,000.00$
4 Subgrade Preparation SY 655 * 7.50$ =4,912.50$
5 Subbase, Modified SY 655 * 15.00$ =9,825.00$
6 Compaction Testing LS 1 * 4,500.00$ =4,500.00$
7 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 15 in. LF 38 * 90.00$ =3,420.00$
8 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 30 in. LF 20 * 150.00$ =3,000.00$
9 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 36 in. LF 57 * 180.00$ =10,260.00$
10 Removal of Storm Sewer, Any Type, Any Size LF 20 * 30.00$ =600.00$
11 Subdrain, Perforated, 4 in. LF 500 * 20.00$ =10,000.00$
12 Subdrain Cleanout, Riser, 6 in. EA 4 * 1,100.00$ =4,400.00$
13 Subdrain Outlets and Connections, Intake, 4 in. EA 4 * 275.00$ =1,100.00$
14 Valve Box Extension EA 1 * 750.00$ =750.00$
15 Manhole, SW-401, 48 in. EA 2 * 6,000.00$ =12,000.00$
16 Intake, SW-501 EA 2 * 5,000.00$ =10,000.00$
17 Intake, SW-505 EA 1 * 8,000.00$ =8,000.00$
18 Manhole Adjustment, Minor EA 2 * 1,750.00$ =3,500.00$
19 Remove Intake EA 3 * 1,000.00$ =3,000.00$
20 Pavement, PCC, 9 in. SY 480 * 75.00$ =36,000.00$
21 Removal of Sidewalk SY 280 * 15.00$ =4,200.00$
22 Shared Use Path, PCC, 6 in. SY 672 * 75.00$ =50,400.00$
23 Special Subgrade Preparation for Shared Use Path SY 1018 * 10.00$ =10,180.00$
24 Sidewalk, PCC, 6 in. SY 450 * 75.00$ =33,750.00$
25 Detectable Warning SF 260 * 60.00$ =15,600.00$
26 Driveway, Paved, PCC, 8 in. SY 396 * 85.00$ =33,660.00$
27 Pavement Removal SY 1445 * 10.00$ =14,450.00$
28 Painted Pavement Markings, High-Build STA 47.2 * 30.00$ =1,416.00$
29 Precut Symbols and Legends, Thermoplastic EA 6 * 525.00$ =3,150.00$
30 Pavement Markings Removed STA 11.5 * 70.00$ =805.00$
31 Grooves Cut for Pavement Markings STA 47.2 * 30.00$ =1,416.00$
32 Grooves Cut for Symbols and Legends EA 6 * 225.00$ =1,350.00$
33 Temporary Traffic Control LS 1 * 30,000.00$ =30,000.00$
34 Traffic Sign, Type A Assembly EA 20 * 250.00$ =5,000.00$
35 Remove and Salvage Traffic Sign Assembly EA 10 * 110.00$ =1,100.00$
36 Watering MGAL 31 * 75.00$ =2,325.00$
37 Sod SY 1590 * 7.50$ =11,925.00$
38 SWPPP Preparation LS 1 * 7,500.00$ =7,500.00$
39 SWPPP Management LS 1 * 4,000.00$ =4,000.00$
40 Filter Sock, 9 in. LF 1500 * 2.50$ =3,750.00$
41 Filter Socks, Removal LF 1500 * 0.50$ =750.00$
42 Inlet Protection Device, Grate EA 11 * 125.00$ =1,375.00$
43 Inlet Protection Device, Maintenance EA 11 * 25.00$ =275.00$
44 Construction Survey LS 1 * 15,000.00$ =15,000.00$
45 Mobilization LS 1 * 22,000.00$ =22,000.00$
46 Concrete Washout LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
47 Remove Light Pole and Footing EA 4 * 500.00$ =2,000.00$
48 Light Pole Footing EA 4 * 2,000.00$ =8,000.00$
49 RRFB LS 1 * 20,000.00$ =20,000.00$
$455,645
$91,100
$546,745
**TOTAL PROJECT COSTS AND CONSTRUCTION COSTS PROVIDED HEREIN ARE MADE ON THE BASIS OF ENGINEER'S EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS AND REPRESENT THE
ENGINEER'S BEST JUDGMENT. HOWEVER, THE ENGINEER CANNOT AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT BIDS OR ACTUAL TOTAL PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION COSTS WILL NOT VARY
FROM THE OPINION OF PROBABLE CONSTRUCTION COST. THIS OPINION IS INTENDED TO ASSIST IN BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT ACTUAL PROJECT
COSTS WILL NOT EXCEED OR BE LOWER THAN THE AMOUNTS STATED IN THIS OPINION.
City of Ames
Somerset Improvements - Stange Road
Engineer's Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - Alternative A
January 29, 2026
CONSTRUCTION SUBTOTAL
CONTINGENCY (20%)
TOTAL
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ITEM NO. ITEM UNIT QUANTITY UNIT PRICE DIVISION I COST
1 Clearing and Grubbing LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
2 Topsoil LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
3 Excavation, Class 10 LS 1 * 10,000.00$ =10,000.00$
4 Subgrade Preparation SY 586 * 7.50$ =4,395.00$
5 Subbase, Modified SY 586 * 15.00$ =8,790.00$
6 Compaction Testing LS 1 * 4,500.00$ =4,500.00$
7 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 15 in. LF 12 * 90.00$ =1,080.00$
8 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 30 in. LF * 150.00$ =-$
9 Storm Sewer, Trenched, RCP, 36 in. LF * 180.00$ =-$
10 Removal of Storm Sewer, Any Type, Any Size LF * 30.00$ =-$
11 Subdrain, Perforated, 4 in. LF 536 * 20.00$ =10,720.00$
12 Subdrain Cleanout, Riser, 6 in. EA 6 * 1,100.00$ =6,600.00$
13 Subdrain Outlets and Connections, Intake, 4 in. EA 5 * 275.00$ =1,375.00$
14 Valve Box Extension EA 8 * 750.00$ =6,000.00$
15 Manhole, SW-401, 48 in. EA * 6,000.00$ =-$
16 Intake, SW-501 EA * 5,000.00$ =-$
17 Intake, SW-505 EA 1 * 8,000.00$ =8,000.00$
18 Manhole Adjustment, Minor EA 1 * 1,750.00$ =1,750.00$
19 Remove Intake EA * 1,000.00$ =-$
20 Pavement, PCC, 9 in. SY 411 * 75.00$ =30,825.00$
21 Removal of Sidewalk SY 286 * 15.00$ =4,290.00$
22 Shared Use Path, PCC, 6 in. SY * 75.00$ =-$
23 Special Subgrade Preparation for Shared Use Path SY * 10.00$ =-$
24 Sidewalk, PCC, 6 in. SY 740 * 75.00$ =55,500.00$
25 Detectable Warning SF 220 * 60.00$ =13,200.00$
26 Driveway, Paved, PCC, 8 in. SY * 85.00$ =-$
27 Pavement Removal SY 860 * 10.00$ =8,600.00$
28 Painted Pavement Markings, High-Build STA 66.1 * 30.00$ =1,983.00$
29 Precut Symbols and Legends, Thermoplastic EA 6 * 525.00$ =3,150.00$
30 Pavement Markings Removed STA 20.5 * 70.00$ =1,435.00$
31 Grooves Cut for Pavement Markings STA 66.1 * 30.00$ =1,983.00$
32 Grooves Cut for Symbols and Legends EA 6 * 225.00$ =1,350.00$
33 Temporary Traffic Control LS 1 * 30,000.00$ =30,000.00$
34 Traffic Sign, Type A Assembly EA 20 * 250.00$ =5,000.00$
35 Remove and Salvage Traffic Sign Assembly EA 10 * 110.00$ =1,100.00$
36 Watering MGAL 5 * 75.00$ =375.00$
37 Sod SY 225 * 7.50$ =1,687.50$
38 SWPPP Preparation LS 1 * 7,500.00$ =7,500.00$
39 SWPPP Management LS 1 * 4,000.00$ =4,000.00$
40 Filter Sock, 9 in. LF 750 * 2.50$ =1,875.00$
41 Filter Socks, Removal LF 750 * 0.50$ =375.00$
42 Inlet Protection Device, Grate EA 11 * 125.00$ =1,375.00$
43 Inlet Protection Device, Maintenance EA 11 * 25.00$ =275.00$
44 Construction Survey LS 1 * 15,000.00$ =15,000.00$
45 Mobilization LS 1 * 15,000.00$ =15,000.00$
46 Concrete Washout LS 1 * 5,000.00$ =5,000.00$
47 Remove Light Pole and Footing EA * 500.00$ =-$
48 Light Pole Footing EA * 2,000.00$ =-$
49 RRFB LS 2 * 20,000.00$ =40,000.00$
$324,089
$64,800
$388,889
City of Ames
Somerset Improvements - Stange Road
Engineer's Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - Alternative B
January 29, 2026
CONSTRUCTION SUBTOTAL
CONTINGENCY (20%)
TOTAL
**TOTAL PROJECT COSTS AND CONSTRUCTION COSTS PROVIDED HEREIN ARE MADE ON THE BASIS OF ENGINEER'S EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS AND REPRESENT THE
ENGINEER'S BEST JUDGMENT. HOWEVER, THE ENGINEER CANNOT AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT BIDS OR ACTUAL TOTAL PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION COSTS WILL NOT VARY
FROM THE OPINION OF PROBABLE CONSTRUCTION COST. THIS OPINION IS INTENDED TO ASSIST IN BUDGETARY ASSESSMENT AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT ACTUAL PROJECT
COSTS WILL NOT EXCEED OR BE LOWER THAN THE AMOUNTS STATED IN THIS OPINION.
8
9
Name (optional):
Which alternative do you prefer Alternative A
or Alternative B? Why? Do you have any concerns about the proposed alternatives?
Are there any neighborhood
events we should be aware of
during construction?
Are there any issues you
experience in the area?
(Stormwater, parking,
accessibility, etc. )
Are there any additional
suggestions or ideas you'd like
to share?
Justin Dodge
Neither - we need to keep 4 lanes through
Somerset. With more Northern growth, we
need to be able to move traffic through this
area Yes, I believe it constrains the traffic flow too much I can't think of any
I am most concerned about the
lack of sight towards oncoming
traffic - making a turn onto Stange
is very dangerous.
Let's take out the crescent to
help straighten the road, add
parking and add stop signs.
Bill Woodward
Alternative A, B does not solve the visibility
issue in trying to turn left from the east side of
Stange off of Northridge Parkway and it could
potentially make it much worse with all of the
additional parking that will double of up on
southbound traffic. See above.
Mark Doyle
Alternative A. I feel that the businesses on the
West side of the street have a greater need for
parking and making the west side primarily a
parking lot is a safer alternative. The back in
parking with Alternative B could present safety
issues with the angled back in parking. There
is a lot of traffic heading north at different
times of the day and if people are stopping
then trying to back in, cars will get backed up
and may even collide with those stopping to
park. Outlined above Holloween Trick or Treat night
My partners and I own 2701
Stange Rd and we have had
multiple incidents over the years
with storm water filling up the
intersection and water coming
into our building. Nope. Thanks for considering.
Kevin Rettig A
I like the proposed in alternative A, back-in diagonal parking in B does not seem to be
efficient, nor safe?
Halloween Trick or Treat near
end of October
During severe thunderstorms
water backs up over the
sidewalks and almost reaches the
building for GICU.
Please install 4-way stop signs
where proposed now rather than
waiting till the project is
completed. As you know, it's
dangerous.
Clayton Nevins
Highly prefer Alternative A. There is already
plenty of parking on each side of Stange
because of the parking lots behind the
buildings. We do not need street parking on
both sides of Stange. New paved path for
bikes and pedestrians will be great.
My concern is that there will be the same amount of cars and traffic that drive
through Somerset on Stange, but now there will be congestion. Is there any way to
encourage traffic to take Washington Carver? I am concerned that the congestion
itself won't be enough to encourage this.
There are no parking issues in
Somerset. The parking lots
behind the businesses on Stange
are always available. We need
more foot traffic and businesses
in our business district, and I
believe Alternative A will help
this the most out of the two
options.
10
Mike McCoy
A. I think that the back in parking in alternative
b will back up traffic as people pull into the
parking. I also think you will see even more u-
turns at Aspen as people look to park facing
southbound. This is already an issue at this
intersection and now it will occur at a 4 way
stop, increasing frustration when it happens.
Yes. I don't believe people will go around on GW Carver as anticipated without
significant changes to the current intersections at Stange and 24th Street and at GW
Carver and Bloomington. The turn lane heading west at 24th street when headed
northbound on Stange is short and has a short turn light. The queue will back up and
people will just use Stange. Also, getting stuck at a stop sign at Bloomington with no
signal will be annoying at best. As someone that uses the walking paths along GW
Carver multiple times per day, if traffic is expected to increase, I would like to see
additional street lights in that area for pedestrian safety.
I am also concerned with the volume of traffic increasing on Aspen due to the 4 way
stop. We purchased on Aspen as it was a low traffic side street. Backing out in
some areas can be difficult due to low visibility caused by trees and parked cars.
Increased traffic will make this more difficult and potentially impact housing value.
Especially when traffic on this road can and does travel significantly above the
posted speed limit.
Based on what we saw this past summer with the Stange reconstruction, I think this
will likely just cause traffic to back up on Stange. I honestly don't believe people will
use other routes and decrease traffic on Stange. It is one of the few direct routes to
the north that don't require wandering through residential neighborhoods or going
significantly out of your way. People headed to Fareway, Caseys or using Hyde to
head to/from Gilbert will continue to use Stange. No
Snow removal on Aspen on the
west side of Stange make that
Aspen a one lane road at Stange
after any snow event. I expect
there will be increased traffic on
Aspen with this switch so after
snow event traffic could back up
more than anticipated.
As a resident on Aspen, I love the
idea of a 4 way stop at our
intersection. The electric box on
the northwest corner causes a
blind intersection. The proposed
4 way stop fixes this issue.
Thank you for that.
Only Provided
Email
Alternate A because I believe the angled
parking would allow for easier access to the
parking spaces and a better flow of traffic
through that area. No No
The east side of Stange where it
intersects with Aspen is difficult
to see cars coming from the
south. Hopefully placing the stop
sign there will reduce the danger. No
Only Provided
Email
A-trees are preserved. New pedestrian routes
is the essence of Somerset
My concern is if there is going to be modifications to GWC, like a stop sign on
Bloomington, to encourage traffic to take that route? If traffic cant easily turn left at
GWC and Bloomington, they aren't going that way.
Jason Niegsch
A. I don't like the back in parking option in
option B. No
October-Somerset Trick or
Treat event
History of storm sewer backing up
near the State Farm business and
also in the parking lot near
Greater Iowa Credit Union
11
Name (optional):
Address of your Somerset
Property
Which alternative do you prefer
Alternative A or Alternative B? Why?
Do you have any recommendations for other
alternatives that would meet the goals of the
project? Do you have any concerns about the proposed alternatives?
Are there any neighborhood
events we should be aware of
during construction?
Are there any issues you
experience in the area?
(Stormwater, parking,
accessibility, etc. )
Are there any additional suggestions or ideas you'd like to
share?
Julie Patten
2631 Stange Road, Ames. On
the corner just south of
Northridge Parkway. Experience
Speeding and noise from cars,
motorcycles day and night.
A--maintains a more continuous
straight forward throughway of traffic,
maintains majority of trees (less cost
of landscaping change, more
aesthetically pleasing,) adds more
parking for businesses.
if the goal is to slow down speeding traffic and
increase safety, I would ADD some mechanism
to start tapering traffic from 2 lane into 1 lane
at Bristol and Clayton. Expecting traffic to
suddenly transition from 2 lanes into 1 lane all
of a sudden at Northridge and Aspen seems
abrupt and risks accidents.
HOW do you plan to TAPER from two lanes of traffic into one lane of traffic in the 1-2 blocks prior to this tiny segment of
Northridge/Aspen?--during heavier traffic, ppl will be speeding ahead of cars to transition from 2 lanes into 1 lane of traffic
to accommodate this 1 block of change, and then coming out of 1 lane will just speed out once 2 lanes are available.
During low traffic, will it stop the speeding? I am skeptical of benefit when only 1 small block is changed. Thank you for
sending letters to community, as initially, extremely low numbers of people were notified or knew about the project.
I would make it a general mode of communication to send letters
to all residents in the area affected, i.e. property and business
owners, so that community people affected are informed and
allowed input prior to city council and planning meetings. I
thank you for the letter sent out asking for input.
Nick Schieffer 2810 Aspen Rd
Alternative A is superior. I can tell you
as a police officer in Ames who now
does back in parking on 6th St that
people pull up on you way too fast and
close, and that's when I'm in a marked
squad right in front of the PD.
Make sure that the road is wide enough in A
that if there is a collision or broken down
vehicle that we can still get north and south
bound traffic through. Also, put in bicycle
parking in the crescent.
Just that you should not be overly concerned about street parking spots. Most of the spots on the back side of the business
to both the east and west don't get used.
I think there is a trick or treat
even each year.
Speed in general, driver's not
yielding to pedestrian in the
crosswalk and northbound
traffic making unsafe u-turns
at Stange Rd & Aspen Rd.
I love the two 4-way stop signs. People are going to complain but
they just need to go to GWC. Somerset is supposed to be a
walkable neighborhood. The people passing through don't seem
to get it.
Only Provided Email 2716 Northridge Parkway
A. It appears to flow better and saves
more trees.
I have requested before to just add crosswalk
signs that flash yellow when a pedestrian
pushes a button like the ones on Bloomington
west of Fareway on Aspen and Northridge
Parkway. Simple and inexpensive fix! B seems silly with having to back into parking. No
Stormwater was an issue
once after a prolonged
downpour, but happened
only once in the 5 years I've
lived here.
Only Provided Email 2706 Clayton Dr Alternative A. Pedestrian pathway
Lanting Dai 2703 Cambridge Dr. Neither
Put a warning slow down sign for cars driving
from Aspen to North Ridge Neither are better than what it is currently.
Only Provided Email 2804 Aspen Rd A; seems more pedestrian friendly
We are actually satisfied with the current road layout. And prefer
not to have any constructions near our neighborhood. A flashing
beacon for the crosswalk may be a simple solution.
Julie Remsburg 2602 Clayton Dr B
Do not allow steet parking in areas where there
is potential for hard to see around car spots.
That curve going towards Clayton Dr is unsafe
when turning any direction as cars can hude in
that curve when moving. Often cars parkee
closer to Clayton vause big issues. Ive
complained before. Even turning right out of
Clayton it is hard at times. Get rid of that curve.
I know it is an issue a block before as well. Cant
see ariund corner.
MAKE SURE CY RIDE IS STILL GOING ON BOTH DIRECTIONS AT VARIED SPOTS ON STANGE. MY FAMILY USES IT DURING
SCHOOL YEAR FOR ISU AND MANY OTHERS DO. ITS A BIG DEAL FOR APARTMENT RESIDENTS/STUDENTS AND A DEAL
BREAKER TO BUY OR RENT THERE.
CYRIDE NEEDS TO GO ON
STANGE OR JUMP OVER TO A
STREET OVER THATS NEARBY
DURING ROAD WORK AND
ESPECIALLY AREA BY EL EZTECA
OR SO. THAT IS A VERY
POPULAR STOP!!! LESS USE IN
SUMMER, BUT STILL NEEDS TO
RUN BY IT.
Stated earlier, when making
parking spots think of hard to
see around spots from steet
corners and dont allow
parking there. We have
learned that curves are not
cool, as they hide cars.
Those stop signs for pedestrians at only certain spots are a joke.
80% of drivers go through them. I know because I walk it
regularly. Either have them lit up and more obvious or don't have
them. Also, the city is dumb if they think most of Ames should
drive over near NR on GWParkway to go north and not go on
Stange. Thats out of the way and not going to happen. Having
cyride go there and not on stange as an idea would be cruel and
not ok. Wake up, people are going to continue to go on Stange to
go to isu and fareway and the mall. So make it manageable and
allow cyride. I've lived here 20 years now and the biggest issue is
some parking in the front of apartments. Also you failed to say
when this project will likely start.
Rentals@tpmames.com
2724,2730 Stange Rd, also have
properties on Asen and Kent
about 120 units total neither
Take out the median, can't have 2 stop signs in
one block on that busy of a road
Our tenants do not want a stop sigh 20 ft from their window,
these cars will be impatient and be speeding up Stange after the
north stop sign, this will also cause Kent Av. to be a shortcut and
cause speeding up Kent to get around the stop signs. I also think
taking out median will open up and give the restaurant's room to
have a bigger patio and better parking options. Maybe not even
have parking on the west side of the road, plenty of parking in
back. I think the restaurants will be affected as well, people will
be avoiding this area any way they can.
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Kevin Bourke 2730 Stange and 2511 Aspen Neither.
Eliminate the median. Redirect Stange through
the current median. Add speed humps
between Northridge Pkwy and Aspen. Add push
button cross walk signs with flashing lights
(like the cross walks on Duff by MGMC and the
corner of Hyland and Sheldon) to the corners of
Aspen and NR Pkwy.
Yes. I can't believe the study of traffic patterns through 2050 don't forecast the need for 4 lanes. A lot of the current traffic
is heading to Gilbert via Hyde. As Gilbert grows as well and north Ames, and Stange Rd continues to expand north, I have
to believe traffic will increase. With the proposed options, traffic will get severely backed up at the 4way stops. Also there
will be an increase of noise from the stop/start of vehicles (particularly CyRide busses).
By redirecting Stange through the median, this will create more
opportunities for parking, outdoor cafe space, and create space
that Ames residents will utilize. This would also allow for a
designated bike path. The current median is a total waste of
space.
Many. First, despite what was said at the town hall meeting (which we were unaware of until after it happened) there is a
heavy amount of traffic going down Stange. At going to and from work times both lanes are completely full, which is why it
is impossible to cross the street as a pedestrian without a street light. Then after Iowa State games traffic is packed as
everyone heading north goes up Stange. Hoping the traffic will reroute to George Washington Carver is a big hope because
many people coming this way live in Somerset or northeast of Bloomington and Stange and rerouting to GWC would be
much further out of their way. Increasing traffic on GWC would also create issues for people turning on or off of GWC,
especially at Northridge where it's already difficult to see around the curve. GWC is also two lane and increasing it to 4
lane and adding a stop light at Bloomington for it just moves the problem from Stange to GWC. Going down to two lanes
on Stange would slow traffic, but unless the two lanes extend from 24th St. to Bloomington, you'll have people racing to
cut in before the 4-way stops. Even when traffic is going the correct speed, there are constantly people weaving in and out
trying to get ahead as they go through the curve. If you really want to deter people from going through Somerset, you need
to slow down to two lanes for the entire length of Somerset. The remaining lanes could easily be converted to bus lanes to
prevent back ups from the busses stopping, and avoid moving the bus stops from their central location. Which, moving the
bus stops out of the central block would put them in front of people's residences, and no one should have to listen to the
constant loud beeping and hydraulics of the buses stopping.
One thing the city planners have not considered is who is speeding and making the area dangerous. I'm near the corner of
Stange and Northridge and frequently use the The Corner Lawn park, and some of the biggest and consistent offenders are
people who live in Somerset and come in and out on Northridge. At this point I actually know the individual cars and
motorcycles that are the consistent offenders, and there are many. People consistently pull out onto Stange from
Northridge without stopping at the stop sign and gun it as fast as they can in either direction. Most of the accidents or near-
accidents there with either cars or pedestrians are from people pulling in and out onto Stange, not the cars going through.
Adding a 4-way stop won't deter them, and if anything make them more dangerous because they know the cross-traffic
will stop or if there's less traffic on Stange to slow them down. I'm not a fan of speed bumps or rumble strips, but I think
adding them on Northridge and Aspen before you get to the intersection, as well as on Stange between the cross streets
may be the only way to really slow people down, especially the motorcycles that live down the east side of Northridge and
regularly loop around to do 50-80 mph through the curve.
A major issue with Somerset is not that Stange shouldn't be too big, but that it's trying to focus on the Stange-facing side of
the businesses. Most residents would tell you there's no reason to make the front of businesses walkable because there's
ample parking behind the buildings that never fills up. The street parking along Stange is mostly empty except in front of
the apartments near Bristol and in front of the west side businesses, but the west side businesses consistently have the
same cars in front for employees that work there, and even a truck that's been parked for sale there for over 9 months.
Having parking on Stange just increases the risk for accidents with cars trying to whip in and out of parking, or pedestrians
and bikers in the proposed option. Even if the traffic is slowed, it would be much safer to focus parking in the lots on the
back of the buildings, and keep the front focused on the multi-use paths so people parking aren't constantly driving or
walking across the path. While option A is safer for slowing down traffic, it creates a nuisance for bikers and pedestrians
that have to stop 4 times just to get through the area. Instead of parking, the businesses could use the space for outdoor
seating and neighborhood events that would attract more people to the area. Also, if emphasizing pedestrian and bike
usage, the path needs improvement beyond the business area. In front of my house on Stange, just south of Northridge,
the sidewalk is barely 6 feet wide, not 8 feet as the city planner said in the meeting. This is just wide enough for one bike to
safely pass one person walking in the opposite direction. There are a lot of both people and bikers that use that path and
likely many more bikers would use it if it were wider and divided between bikers and walkers. A great option would be to
make Stange two lanes from 24th Street to Bloomington as I've suggested, and make the existing sidewalk a walking path,
and make part of the second lane of the road or the parking lane a bidirectional bike path.
not that I know of - I don't think
Somerset has any events other
than trick-or-treating with the
businesses at Halloween
There's a big accessibility
issue with the buses.
Because you have to go
through the parked cars to
get to the buses, people with
wheelchairs or movement
difficulties can't get to the
bus without going down the
block and into traffic to get
down the curb. Again, getting
rid of the parking would solve
this so the bus can put its
ramp straight out to the
sidewalk.
I will also emphasize again
that there is an absolute lack
of a parking issue. The
businesses want parking on
Stange out front to draw
people in, but there is always
plenty of empty parking
behind the businesses that is
easy to get to.
One thing the city hasn't seemed to consider is the lack of police
presence. I rarely see a police car go through Somerset, and I
understand Ames may not have the resources, but having a
police car or two parked to ticket speeders during rush hour every
day for a week may make a temporary impact until construction
can start. It would also be easy income for the city through a lot
of speeding tickets, especially the high fines for the high
speeders on Friday and Saturday nights.
I will add that the residents were not notified the first time the city
planner attempted to collect feedback. The HOA does not have a
way of communicating with residents other than by mail , and the
meeting agendas are not shared before the meeting to know you
need to attend. It's clear by the options that the only feedback
given was from the businesses who want to prioritize getting
customers in the front door and parking out front, which
contributes to the problem of congestion on Stange. They have
plenty of parking on back, so Stange should prioritize the safety
of their residents and pedestrians and bikers in the area. It's also
the residents that have to live with the safety issue 24/7, so our
needs should be prioritized.
I also just want to say that the city needs to prioritize an option
that is safest, not just a quick or cheap fix that doesn't solve the
safety issue. If budget is an issue, it would be safer to close that
block of Stange to through traffic than to create a confusing
traffic pattern or give reckless drivers more free reign with less
traffic.
Jessica Patten 2631 Stange Rd
Alternative A would be the better of the
two options but would still create a lot
of issues. Of the two, A would help
slow traffic the most and would bring
the cars at the 4-way stops closer
together so they could see other cars.
Currently the stop signs at Northridge
and Aspen are so far back that cars
and people crossing can't see other
cars coming on Stange, and cars on
Stange can't see them until it's too
late. Option A would also create more
of a slow down because you aren't just
stopping at the 4-way stops, but also
when cars are pulling in and out of the
parking lot, northbound spaces, and
when pedestrians are crossing the
street. Option A also makes the
intersections more clear to drivers that
it is a 4-way stop and makes it easy to
see where traffic is going and where
you would be able to pull out.
Both of the proposed alternatives still have four
lane traffic north of Aspen and south of
Northridge, which given the current style of
driving in the area, would encourage people to
race to get around each other and cut in before
the 4-way stops. To make these options
successful, Stange should be reduced to two
lanes from 24th Street to Bloomington, and the
extra lanes could be used as turn lanes or bus
lanes. Another alternative would be to put in
stop lights at both intersections that are offset
in their timing so it's never a straight green light
going through. This would remove the need for
construction of the road and still allow the
heavy traffic to go through.
13
Project 2250013040
AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT
between SHIVE-HATTERY, INC. AND THE CLIENT
ATTN: Mark Gansen
CLIENT: City of Ames, IA
515 Clark Avenue
PO Box 811
Ames, IA 50010
PROJECT: City of Ames - Somerset Improvements Strange Road
PROJECT LOCATION: Ames, IA
ORIGINAL AGREEMENT DATE: September 23, 2025
AMENDMENT NO.: 1
AMENDMENT DATE: February 05,2026
OVERVIEW
The original Professional Services Agreement is being amended to include additional services, based
on a revised project concept. Additional communication, meetings, and design scope of services have
been added for alternate project limits based on new concept. An exhibit of the alternative concept is
attached.
City of Ames and Shive-Hattery, Inc. (S-H) agree to amend the Original Agreement as follows:
SCOPE OF SERVICES
Tasks to be included for the Amended Scope of Services are as follows:
1. Conceptual design of one (1) alternative for Stange Road and the business access drive in the
Somerset Area to present to the business’ owners and City Council.
2. Design for the realignment of the business access drive entrances onto Stange Road.
3. Intersection modifications and median adjustments to align through lanes of Stange Road
across Aspen Road and Northridge Parkway.
4. Street light modifications for relocation needed due to driveway realignment and intersection
modifications. Corridor lighting layout and photometric assessment are not anticipated.
5. Design of a multi-use trail from Northridge Parkway to Aspen Road.
6. Restriping of business access drive, and the Northridge Parkway and Aspen Road
intersections.
7. Drainage analysis of the site, including review of the flooding issues near the southern side of
the business access drive. Full storm sewer replacement and design is not anticipated.
8. Extended survey for extended project limits.
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Page 2 of 4
Project 2250013040 | February 05, 2026
Design and Construction Documents
2. Check and Final Design and Plans
a. Sheets to be included:
i. M Sheets – Storm Sewer Sheets (as necessary)
ii. P Sheets – Lighting Sheets (as necessary)
Public Participation and Involvement
3. Concept Consideration Meeting – The CONSULTANT and CITY shall participate in a meeting
with business and property owners impacted by the project to present the original and new
alternative concepts.
a. Prepare exhibits necessary to convey project design, options, and gather feedback. The
development of additional alternatives is not anticipated.
b. Document meeting minutes and comments received for the CITY’s use at a city council
meeting.
COMPENSATION
Description Fee Type Fee Total
Amendment Scope of Services Hourly w/ Max $27,000 $27,000
Fee Types:
• Hourly w/ Max - We will provide the Scope of Services on an hourly rate basis at our standard
Hourly Fee Schedule in effect at the time that the services are performed. We will not exceed
the estimated amounts above without your prior authorization.
Expenses:
• Included - For Fixed Fee Type, expenses have been included in the Fee amount. For Hourly
Fee Types, expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Reimbursable Expense Fee
Schedule in effect at the time that the expense is incurred.
EXHIBITS
Somerset Improvements – Stange Road Project Alternative Concept
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Page 3 of 4
Project 2250013040 | February 05, 2026
AGREEMENT
When accepted by both parties, this Amendment will amend the Original Agreement and is subject to all
other terms and conditions of the Original Agreement. Original, facsimile, electronic signatures or other
electronic acceptance by the parties (and returned to Shive-Hattery) are deemed acceptable for binding
the parties to the Amendment. The Client representative signing this Amendment warrants that he or
she is authorized to enter into this Amendment on behalf of the Client.
Sincerely,
SHIVE-HATTERY, INC.
Victoria Watts, PE, Market Leader
vwatts@shive-hattery.com
AMENDMENT ACCEPTED AND SERVICES AUTHORIZED TO PROCEED
CLIENT: City of Ames, IA
BY: TITLE:
(signature)
PRINTED NAME: DATE ACCEPTED:
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Page 4 of 4
Project 2250013040 | February 05, 2026
ATTACHMENT 1 –
Somerset Improvements – Stange Road Alternative Concept - Concept below was provided by the
CONSULTANT in the Request for Proposals.
17