Enhanced Penalties for Nuisance Parties, Illegally Parked Vehicles during Aug. 23 - 25

AMES, Iowa - Ames bustles with people, energy, and excitement the weekend before classes begin at Iowa State University. To get the school year off to a good start, residents should be aware of some temporary ordinance changes around parties and parking in effect from Aug. 23-25.

In the past, illegal parking during this weekend has created public safety concerns by limiting access for emergency vehicles to respond to medical, fire, and police calls for service. To combat these hazards, the Ames City Council approved a temporary towing policy. This authorizes the immediate towing of illegally parked vehicles on Saturday, Aug. 24, from midnight to 11:59 p.m. in a specified part of Ames. This area is posted with bright green reminder signs. The boundaries include:

• Lincoln Way between Beach Avenue and State Street
• State Street between Lincoln Way and Mortensen Avenue
• Mortensen Avenue between State Street and Beach Avenue
• Beach Avenue between Mortensen Avenue and Lincoln Way

Additionally, enhanced penalties for nuisance party violations will begin at 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, and end at 4 a.m. on Sunday, Aug 25. Fines increase to $650 for a first offense and $855 for each repeat offense.

"We want a safe start to the school year for all residents, whether they are new or long-term," said Geoff Huff, Chief of Police. "We want to focus on positive activities like community events and alternatives for fun that create great memories not shenanigans."

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