AMES, Iowa — Last week, the City of Ames released updated info on a few temporary ordinance changes that would affect parties and parking Aug. 23-25, which is the move-in weekend for the majority of Iowa State University students.
"In the past, illegal parking during this weekend has created public safety concerns by limiting access for emergency vehicles to respond to medical, fire, and police calls for service," the release from the city states.
The Ames City Council has approved a temporary towing policy, allowing for the immediate towing of cars parked illegally from Saturday at 12 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. in specific areas of Ames. On top of the signs that will be in place, you can see the affected areas below:
- Lincoln Way between Beach Avenue and State Street
- State Street between Lincoln Way and Mortensen Avenue
- Mortensen Avenue between State Street and Beach Avenue
- Beach Avenue between Mortensen Avenue and Lincoln Way
Alongside the parking ordinance, the city has approved "enhanced penalties" for nuisance party violations. The new penalties take effect at 5 p.m. on Friday and end at 4 a.m. on Sunday. The new fines increase to $650 for a first offense and $855 for repeat offenses.
Ames Chief of Police Geoff Huff says the city wants the school year to have a safe start for all residents, and he wants to "focus on positive activities like community events and alternatives for fun that create great memories, not shenanigans."