Construction has started on the much-anticipated Ames Olive Garden, though it will still be a few months before residents can enjoy the famous “never-ending” breadsticks.
Initially, officials hoped to open the establishment in the first quarter of 2026, or maybe even this year before the holidays.
Because rain has slowed work, the opening likely will be delayed until the second quarter of next year.
“This wet weather has really dampened the spirits of the site work,” Dylan Kline, director of business development for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance.
With plans for a 6,500-square foot building, Olive Garden will be stationed on the southwest corner of S.E. 16th Street and S. Dayton Avenue, near Highway 30.
“Olive Garden wants to open absolutely as soon as possible,” Kline said.
A deal that was years in the making
Like many businesses, Olive Garden was first looking for a site on S. Duff Avenue, north of the Ioway River and south of Lincoln Way.
“I’ve been working with them for over two years to find a site in Ames,” Kline said.
Kline convinced the development team to consider another nearby part of the community, along Highway 30.
“That’s a developing corridor that has available commercial land around it,” Kline said. “Once you plant the Olive Garden flag in an area, they tend to act as a catalyst for other business development.”
Ronna Faaborg covers business and the arts for the Ames Tribune. Reach her at rfaaborg@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Construction has started on the Olive Garden in Ames. Find out when it will open
Reporting by Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune / Ames Tribune
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