Iowa State University Athletics
Iowa State And Goldenrod Host CyTown Groundbreaking
09.02.2026 | Athletics
AMES, Iowa – Wednesday afternoon was a special day for Iowa State University and the athletics department as it hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for CyTown, alongside the project's developer, Goldenrod Companies.
Participating in the ceremony were Iowa State President David Cook, Endowed Cyclone Director of Athletics Jamie Pollard and Goldenrod CEO Zach Wiegert.
"CyTown reflects Iowa State's spirit of innovation, collaboration and community," Cook said. "We are grateful to the many partners whose vision and support have helped make this project possible. Together, we are creating new opportunities for economic growth and community engagement that will strengthen Iowa State and Ames for generations to come."
Wednesday's ceremony was the culmination of years of collaboration and imagination for a project that will ultimately provide the University and City of Ames with a vibrant multi-use district that will serve as a catalyst for enhancements for the Iowa State Center. CyTown will offer new amenities for students, staff, visitors and residents to enjoy year-round.
"CyTown is a significant example of Iowa State University's continued commitment to our community's arts, entertainment and economic development efforts," Pollard said. "President Cook, and former President Wintersteen, should be commended for their support of Dr. James Hilton's initial vision in 1965 to build the Iowa State Center.
"This will not only revitalize the Iowa State Center, it will also expand and enhance the economic and entertainment opportunities for the University, City of Ames and Central Iowa. I am confident today will be remembered as a truly historic day in the history of Iowa State University."
The vision for CyTown was unveiled by the University in September of 2022. Iowa State has completed $40 million in parking and infrastructure improvements within the project's footprint. McFarland Clinic broke ground in CyTown in April of 2025 and is expected to open its 78,000-square foot location in early 2027.
The CyTown development will encompass more than 400,000-square feet of building space that will serve the 3 million visitors who annually attend events on site or utilize the parking lots in the area. Upon completion, it will include retail, food and beverage, entertainment, medical, hospitality, office and residential.
"Goldenrod is proud to collaborate with Iowa State to create new and innovative ways to maximize existing University assets by creating a destination that will elevate the student and fan experience through the vision and synergies of public and private sector partnerships," Wiegert said.
To learn more about the project visit www.cytown.com.
