Want to Weigh In on Park Planned for Former Roosevelt School Site?

The community can weigh in next Monday about plans for the design of "Roosevelt Park" at the former site of Roosevelt School.

The Ames Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the public input session at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 19, in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 515 Clark Ave. 

Commonly called “Roosevelt Park,” the proposed site covers 1.3 acres of land at the corner of Ninth and Roosevelt streets. The former playground area has been give to the city for parkland, according to a statement from the city. 

Commonly called “Roosevelt Park,” the proposed site covers 1.3 acres of land at the corner of Ninth and Roosevelt streets. The school district is expected to set aside $80,000 in the 2014-15 budget for the park.

The 90-year-old school building itself is destined to be converted into residential units by a private developer. At a community meeting in May a group of about 50 people re-imagined Roosevelt Elementary School as a 23 unit-condominium complex that would exist in harmony with the established surrounding neighborhood and a planned city park. Developers expect the condos to range from $120,000 to $170,000. 

Here's more from a city press release:

“The former Roosevelt School site has a tradition in the neighborhood as a gathering space for children and families,” Abraham said in a statement. “The former playground area is often used for outdoor music and attracts users from around the community. We want to hear from everyone on their vision for this park including future uses, design, and amenities.” 

Those who are unable to attend should email their comments to Abraham at kabraham@city.ames.ia.us or call 515.239.5349.