This cache has been placed to celebrate the renovations to the Bandshell and Bandshell Park. Dedication ceremonies were held Thursday, July 27, 2006 and included recognition of the efforts of the Ames Foundation, which contributed $457,300, and recognition of other people involved in making sure the facility and park continue to be a source of pride for the Ames community. This very special evening included a performance by Iowa native Simon Estes. If you didn't make it for the dedication, we hope you can at least enjoy this park when you are here. Every Thursday night during the months of June and July there are free band concerts!
Bandshell Park is the city’s first and oldest park, acquired in 1892. While quality materials and workmanship characterized the original construction, it seemed apparent by 1995 that the 70-year-old bandshell needed a major overhaul to survive. To address these problems the Ames Foundation, a private, non-profit volunteer group, took on the project. The goal was to restore the building, maintaining its original design and character, and to showcase it with new landscaping. Groundbreaking took place on April 29, 2005.
The 100-year-old green space underwent renovations including $22,000 in landscaping; $20,000 in new amenities such as park benches and trash receptacles; $36,000 in new lighting; and $72,000 for a new walkway. This phase of the renovation project had a total cost of $220,000 and was funded completely by the Ames Foundation. The entire renovation of Bandshell Park and the Bandshell totaled more than $700,000 and included these restoration features:
* Perimeter drainage and waterproofing
* Masonry repair or replacement, cleaning and moisture proofing
* New flat stage floor providing performance flexibility
* Restored grilles at speaker kiosks
* Restored original entry stairs
* Exterior painting
* Electrical and mechanical upgrades
* Site and security lighting
* New removable risers
* Landscaping and walkways
* Night lighting of shell