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Last Update: 09/22/2026 at 11:34 PM EST
Ames Tests Rules Before Data Center
Coverage from KCCI, Iowa State Daily, and others
Ames is weighing whether to negotiate a lease for LightEdge’s proposed data center on about 10 acres near Ames Regional Airport while considering broader rules for future projects.
The phased facility would begin at roughly 3 MW and could reach 25 MW, potentially requiring a dedicated feeder and substation, while LightEdge says its closed-loop cooling plan would limit ongoing water use. The council has delayed a decision as staff examine public-hearing requirements, zoning, water permits, utility impacts, and the city’s legal authority.
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All Articles5 articles
Important
Ames City Council delayed LightEdge’s proposed airport-area data center decision while staff drafted new city code and public review rules for siting and water requirements.
7/15/2026 • Permitting & Regulation • General
Ames, Iowa city staff briefed on LightEdge data center plans west of Ames Regional Airport, including phased 3 MW-to-25 MW demand and closed-loop cooling, ahead of June 30 public listening session.
6/24/2026 • Permitting & Regulation • General
Ames City Council will vote on Tuesday on LightEdge lease negotiations for an airport-adjacent data center while reviewing potential citywide development limitations.
7/12/2026 • Permitting & Regulation • General
Interesting
Ames, Iowa expects a July 14 legal report as City Council considers Lightedge data center lease negotiations and possible citywide regulations after resident public hearings.
7/2/2026 • Permitting & Regulation • General
Lightedge proposed a data center in Ames, Iowa near the municipal airport, with City Council review scheduled for June 23 and a public session set for June 30.
6/21/2026 • Community & Local Opposition • General