Mayor's annual bike ride extends to 20 miles

Thu April 19 2007
Posted Apr 19, 2007
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By MIKE KILEN REGISTER STAFF WRITER Des Moines is getting in shape. Twenty years ago, former mayor John Pat Dorrian launched the Mayor's Annual Ride For Trails to promote and raise money to become a trail-friendly city. Today, the trail system within the city of Des Moines has blossomed into a 34-mile network. To mark the anniversary and perhaps offer an indicator of residents' improved biking stamina, this year's mayor's ride will be longer, increasing from 15 to 20 miles. A 30-mile option is also offered. The Saturday ride begins at Des Moines City Hall at 10 a.m. It ends with lunch for registered bikers and music by the band Spam at Simon Estes Ampitheatre downtown. Last year, 950 riders participated. The largest ride included 1,100 bikers. The weather is expected to be ideal for biking - low 70s with no rain in the forecast.

DETAILS WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday WHERE: Des Moines City Hall REGISTRATION: 8:30-9:45 a.m. COST: $25. NOTES: The ride includes a 20- or 30-mile loop through all quadrants of the city. Following the ride, there is lunch for registered riders and entertainment at Simon Estes Riverfront Amphitheater. Long-sleeved T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. MORE: details

"Back in the old days there was the Bill Riley Trail, and that was about it," said Forrest Ridgway, owner of Bike World. "Twenty years ago, West Des Moines had a quarter of a mile of trail. Now there are 40 miles. "A lot of progress, but, quite frankly, we have a long ways to go to connect all the trails we have." The $25 ride fee goes toward trail building and maintenance. The ride has made an estimated $240,000 for trails. An added fundraiser this year is a silent auction of bike gear and entertainment packages. Robin Leaper, the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department special events coordinator, said the ride helped to complete several projects in 2006. - Phase one of the Walnut Creek Trail on Des Moines' west side. - Walking bridge over the Des Moines River. - Widening and resurfacing the Bill Riley Trail. - First part of a master plan for trails. Trail plans for 2007 - Completing the Walnut Creek Trail to connect with the Bill Riley Trail. - Signs and bicycle lanes on Walnut Street. - Completing the master plan for trails. Reporter Mike Kilen can be reached at (515) 284-8361 or mkilen@dmreg.com