Ames Adds $143 Million in Construction Valuation in 2018

AMES, IA – The City of Ames totaled $143,364,740 in new taxable valuation in 2018, including 96 new single-family homes and 13 new multi-family buildings. The City of Ames and the Ames Economic Development Commission also continued improvements to the 1,350-acre Prairie View Industrial Center, working to make the newly annexed development area east of Ames a Certified Site.

In addition to the expansion in Prairie View, Ames continues to see significant investment and opportunity in the Iowa State University Research Park, throughout Downtown Ames, Campustown, and in west, south and north Ames as large-scale residential development continues. Throughout the year, there was also significant capital investment and job creation in the Ames market. A total of 18 new economic development projects were generated in Story County, recording $328 million in capital investment and creating 623 high quality jobs.

“2018 was incredible for the Ames market place,” said Dan Culhane, President and CEO of the Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission. “Already 2019 is off to a fast start with a number of opportunities in our pipeline. I am confident this year will be another strong year for the Ames community.”

With a new Mayor of Ames and President of Iowa State University, the community is building upon the already strong town-and-gown relationship. Collaboration is occurring on multiple projects including the Grand Avenue extension, which will provide another needed north-south corridor through the community, and the extension of the transportation and water/wastewater infrastructure to Phase IV of the ISU Research Park for Deere and Company’s new facility. Collaborative efforts are also happening as part of the ongoing promotion of diversity and inclusion throughout the community.
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­"We are continuing a trend of healthy growth and development throughout Ames and that commitment to investing in this community is reflected in our recent statistics," said Ames Mayor John Haila. "Our history of strong leadership, working collaboratively, and focusing on a shared vision creates a welcoming community where all citizens have the opportunity to thrive."