To most people, “northern lights” brings to mind a fabulous swirl of bright hues in the Canadian winter sky. It is now a permanent addition to Ames.

Returning students will find an array of new businesses and apartment complexes just north of Cub Foods and Wal-Mart. Development began in 1997, and construction continued during the past year.

“There’s a lot available [at Northern Lights] for students and, really, anybody,” co-owner and developer David Klatt of Ames said.

Northern Lights Center currently contains a drive-thru Dairy Queen with a dining room, Swift Stop convenience store, Subway, Do-Biz, Video Place (complete with tanning salon), China Buffet and Edward D. Jones. There are also eight 12-plex, two- and three-bedroom apartments and numerous townhouses.

Soon, an Italian restaurant, Nicki Nails, a dental office, two more one- and two-bedroom apartment buildings and a shopping center will be added to the complex.

“We might put in a cocktail lounge or liquor store — and there’s been some talk about a possible Gap store because Ames doesn’t have a Gap,” Klatt said.

Klatt pointed out that many stores and services are and will be available to current and future Northern Lights Center tenants, all within walking distance.

Swift Stop is open 24 hours and provides Phillips 66 gasoline, said owner Rick Thompson. The station includes a new Foam Brite Tunnel car wash, capable of washing 60 cars per hour.

The convenience store also houses Do-Biz cookies and Flavor Burst ice cream.

The new Dairy Queen has seating for 38 people and a drive-thru window. Besides ice cream, the restaurant features Chicago-style hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches, beef burgers and soups.

“This particular store will be open year-round,” said owner Ed Sorenson.

Townhouses will be opening and available in November. Previous housing opened in January.

“It’s a quieter neighborhood, close to the mall, and has a number of students … but more of a mixture of people,” said Mark Hanson, home builder. “The apartments have garages with new garage-door operators and include microwaves and central air,” Hanson added.

Northern Lights Center will also be a source for part-time or full-time employment for students seeking income.

“It’s a well-lit, clean, spacious area with easy access,” Thompson said.

CyRide has a sheltered bus stop between Cub Foods and Northern Lights Center for students without other modes of transportation, Klatt said.

“It’s close to Wal-Mart and has good bus connections,” Sorenson said.