Ames Breaks Ground on $18M Resource Recovery Center

New facility aims to modernize city's solid waste and recycling operations.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic studio still life featuring a collection of sleek, geometric recycling bins and sorting equipment arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing Ames' investment in a state-of-the-art waste management facility.Ames' new $18 million Resource Recovery Center will consolidate the city's waste management operations into a single, modernized facility.Ames Today

The City of Ames has officially broken ground on its $18 million new Resource Recovery and Recycling campus, a major investment in the city's solid waste and recycling infrastructure. The project will consolidate the city's waste management operations into a single, state-of-the-art facility.

Why it matters

Ames' existing waste and recycling facilities are aging and no longer meet the needs of the growing community. The new Resource Recovery Center will allow the city to streamline operations, increase recycling rates, and provide more efficient and environmentally-friendly waste management services for residents and businesses.

The details

The new 60,000-square-foot campus will house the city's solid waste, recycling, and composting operations under one roof. It will feature advanced sorting and processing equipment to divert more materials from landfills, as well as educational exhibits and community spaces.

  • The groundbreaking ceremony took place on April 9, 2026.
  • Construction on the new facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The players

City of Ames

The local government of Ames, Iowa, which is overseeing the development and operation of the new Resource Recovery Center.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is a big change in what's going to be happening in Ames, and we're excited to see it come to fruition.”

— Ames City Official

What’s next

The city plans to hold a grand opening celebration for the new Resource Recovery Center once construction is complete in late 2027.

The takeaway

Ames' investment in a modern, efficient waste management facility demonstrates the city's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, setting an example for other communities looking to upgrade their solid waste infrastructure.