Iowa State may have a new funding resource for the expansion of Reiman Gardens through a recent Ames City Council proposal.Murray Blackwelder, vice president of External Affairs, presented a letter Tuesday to the Ames City Council recommending an increase in the city’s proposal from Vision Iowa, a state program to help fund building costs in the state.”We’re in the fundraising business, and [Vision Iowa] is just one of the opportunities,” Blackwelder said.The grant would help Iowa State support the building needs of Reiman Gardens, he said. Expansions such as a conservatory, auditorium, cafe and gift shop are in the plans. The parking lot, currently being used by students, will also need work.”Our master plan calls for amenities,” Blackwelder said. “It all adds up to big dollars.”The Reiman Gardens project was chosen for the Vision Iowa request because it has the best fit for the fund’s criteria, he said.Ann Campbell, Ames City Council member, said the proposal will produce favorable results for the city and Iowa State.

“Anything that attracts people to come to Ames and to enjoy the amenities serves the university and the public at large,” she said.The council will be discussing Reiman Gardens and other Vision Iowa proposals during its meeting next Tuesday, Campbell said.Other Vision Iowa funding proposals include the construction of a combined recreational and swimming center and the preservation of Hallett’s Quarry.