Informational meetings have been set in Story City and Huxley to provide information about the proposed Healthy Life Center. The City of Ames has partnered with Mary Greeley Medical Center, Iowa State University, Des Moines Area Community College, Story County, and Heartland Senior Services to explore building an intergenerational Healthy Life Center on property currently owned by Iowa State University on Scholl Road, just north of Ontario Street. The facility would be open and accessible to all Story County residents.
The total cost for the facility is estimated at $48.7 million of which the public would be asked to fund approximately one-third. The balance would be paid by the collaboration partners and private fundraising. Once built, the Healthy Life Center would be owned and operated by the City of Ames. If approved by the Story County Board of Supervisors, the facility would receive ongoing operational support from Story County.
Through a holistic approach, the Healthy Life Center would provide opportunities for physical activity, social connections, improved nutrition, multi-generational interaction, rehabilitation services, and an overall focus on health promotion. In addition to housing Heartland Senior Services Adult Day Center and physical therapy space for Mary Greeley Medical Center, the Healthy Life Center would include an indoor playground, walking/ jogging track, teaching/participation kitchen, meeting and classroom space, community gardens, cafe, and gymnasium space. An indoor warm-water aquatic center would include a lap pool, current channel, and splash area for kids.
