Brookside Park Celebrates 100 Years
AMES, Iowa – The public is welcome to attend the 100th anniversary celebration of Brookside Park, 325 Sixth Street. The free, all-ages event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 13. There will be cupcakes and ice cream, an electric vehicle display and test drive, games and activities, and information tables featuring City departments located throughout the park.
At 11 a.m., a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new fire-themed playground is planned, along with a brief program featuring Ames Mayor John Haila, Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen, and representatives of the Ames Noon Kiwanis. The Ames Kiwanians donated funds to assist purchasing the playground, and Iowa State University leases the City the 63 acres of the 83-acre park.
Located between Downtown Ames and Iowa State University, Brookside Park exemplifies historic town-and-gown collaboration. In April 1925, the City purchased 17 acres of land noted for its natural beauty and two bridges spanning the Ioway Creek. Drawn to the site's scenic charm, City Council members at the time envisioned a public space that would serve generations.
By 1928, Brookside Park had become a community centerpiece with the construction of restrooms, a shelter house, swings, and picnic facilities. Over time, the park grew in both size and popularity. In 1951, the City expanded the park by leasing additional land on the west side from Iowa State University, reinforcing the shared vision between the City and the University. A decommissioned fire truck was added in 1965 and quickly became a favorite for children. The new playground is located near the old fire truck and Hickory Shelter.
“This University-City partnership has created a wonderful amenity that guests have enjoyed for decades, and I’m confident Brookside Park will continue to draw, delight, and provide recreation options for years to come,” said Keith Abraham, Parks and Recreation Director. “The new playground recognizes the past while providing fun and excitement for a new generation of park users.”
Notable improvements to Brookside Park include a new bridge spanning Ioway Creek after damage from the 2010 floods and a complete remodel of the restrooms in 2020 after a fire.
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