Mayor previews pilot parklets, including Della Viti and Sam's Place, on consent agenda

Mayor John Haila previewed a consent-agenda request to designate two pilot parklets for the 2026 sidewalk-café season and to allow an exception permitting alcohol service to extend into the parklet area.

“Request for designation of a parklet for the 2026 sidewalk cafe season,” Haila said, explaining a parklet is a constructed platform installed in parking areas "typically between two and three parking spaces wide" to provide outdoor seating. He named the proposed locations: “one is going to be in front of Della Viti at 323 Main Street and the other one's going to be at Sam's Place, which is at the far east end of Main Street, 125 Main Street.”

The mayor said the pilot aligns with the Ames Main Street guiding vision to enhance downtown vibrancy by expanding outdoor seating and service. Council must approve a code exception to permit alcohol service to extend into the parklet; the item is listed on the consent agenda and would typically pass in a single motion unless a council member pulls it for discussion.

If approved, city staff expect the parklets to be installed in June as part of a coordinated pilot with Ames Main Street. Residents who want more detail or who wish to comment can attend the council meeting or send email to mayorcouncil@cityofames.org. The council will consider the consent agenda at the May 26 meeting, which follows an Ames Area MPO meeting and is expected to begin shortly after that session adjourns.