More than half a billion dollars in new capital investments were brought into the region in 2025 by the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, according to a new report. The total was reported to be $581 million in new capital investments and $33 million in outside funding. Ames City Council is expected to vote on renewing its contract with the Alliance in June. Council members asked for a closer look at the contract before renewing it for the 2026–27 fiscal year.

A new indoor playground is set to open next month, giving families a much-needed space for kids to play. Ames Play Yard, opening Feb. 13 at 2175 232nd Lane, is owned by Jenna Miller, a nurse and mother of five who saw a gap in local indoor activities for children.

Representatives of the state of Iowa, Iowa State University and BioMADE broke ground for a $40 million fermentation pilot plant on Friday at Iowa State University's BioCentury ResearchFarm just west of Ames.

Sam Morrow has always loved the arts. Art was a way to entertain herself when she was younger and, as she grew older, she found a passion for creativity, finding her niche in ceramics and watercolor. “Both...

A sign with margaritas and a palm tree has been erected in front of Dakota Crossing, signaling a new tenant for the space suddenly vacated by Mullet’s in April. Juan Dominguez, who owns other Mexican restaurants in Iowa, hopes to open Patio Bar & Grill before the end of the summer.