City Council amends conservation design standards for Ada Hayden Watershed developments

A significant amendment to the conservation design subdivision ordinance was discussed at the Ames City Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on December 18, 2024. This change aims to enhance flexibility in housing development within the Ada Hayden Watershed, impacting current and future projects like Hayden's Preserve and Auburn Trail.

The ordinance revision, prompted by a request from the Ames Economic Development Commission, seeks to stimulate housing growth by removing the strict requirement that 80% of lots must include open space. Instead, the new guidelines will allow for more creative uses of space, such as stormwater management areas, while still ensuring that all lots maintain access to conservation areas.

Key changes include the elimination of the rigid open space requirement, but the ordinance will still mandate that all lots have clear access to conservation areas and pedestrian connectivity. Additionally, larger conservation areas must be evenly distributed throughout developments, preventing scenarios where significant green space is concentrated in one area.

This amendment reflects a broader effort to balance development needs with environmental considerations, ensuring that new housing projects can thrive while preserving vital natural resources. The commission's decision marks a pivotal step in shaping the future of Ames' residential landscape.