1700 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD - ELECTRIC UTILITY EASEMENT ON STATE OF IOWA PROPERTY
Electric Services is planning to replace a buried electric line south of CyRide along the west side of University Boulevard in fall 2026. The existing line, which serves the City water wells 16 & 17, has failed and been repaired several times. The replacement line is needed to restore service reliability to the wells.
The existing buried line has never been covered by an easement. Iowa State University is willing to grant an easement to the City of Ames for the buried line. The Iowa Board of Regents is expected to approve the easement at the November 2026 Board meeting in exchange for $1 in consideration.
- Approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property for the installation of the buried electric line.
- Do not approve the Electric Utility Easement on State of Iowa property and direct Electric Services' staff to find an alternative location for the buried electric line.
Maintaining reliable electric service to the City water wells #16 & 17 is vital to the citizens of Ames. The replacement of the buried electric line will ensure that reliability. An easement of State of Iowa property is required to replace the buried electric line. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted above.