Several Ames community members spurred the idea of creating an open area in the heart of Campustown intended to transform what is currently parking space into a lively, welcoming communal space.

Surrounded by buildings aligning Welch Avenue, Lincoln Way, Hayward Avenue and Chamberlain Street, Campustown Square will provide an open environment for socializing and was conceived by residents of Ames for residents. The effort to gain momentum for this project began in 2014 and steadily garnered support from other residents and surrounding businesses over time.

“This project will begin to make [Campustown] a destination rather than just a cluster of buildings,” said Nitin Gadia, graphics freelancer involved in the project since it was conceived in 2014. “This will bring in more business to surrounding businesses, some of which are very behind.”

Gadia said an example is The District on Lincoln Way, which is especially behind and could use the added boost of a communal space to draw in customers to improve business. The District is one of the many surrounding businesses that will be affected by the project. Gadia said many businesses in the area have shown support.

Current plans in place for the project only include the northeast portion of the parking area in Campustown, but those involved in the project hope to expand this space over time. Gadia said the northeast corner is just a small portion of the space that will ideally be used.

“The majority of traffic in Campustown is pedestrial,” said Jessica Fears, Ames resident who became involved in the project this year. “Many bicyclists, skateboarders and foot traffic goes through the area. It is my belief that [Campustown Square] will increase this traffic flow.”

Fears said the northeast corner where the project will start is cracked concrete that is generally not parked in. Fears said the business owners in the area have told her the area isn’t the safest for parking. By creating Campustown Square, Fears said she and other residents involved in the project hope to improve the area so it can be used in positive ways.

“We held a meeting in early March, and those who attended include Ames Campustown Action Association members, members of the City Council, landowners and Ames residents,” Fears said.

Fears said there was a great turnout and the meeting took place in order to show attendees the space they intend to transform and answer questions regarding the project.

Gadia and Fears said Campustown Square will be a great place for music concerts, children events and yoga classes. The space will be beautified in several ways including planting trees, fresh paving, murals and paintings.