Lots of bicycle stuff going on in Iowa lateley! Bike bans, public input meetings, bike lanes, cyclocross planning, The Skunk Ride lives, Honey Creek bike festival, Mtn Bike trail clean-ups, East Village Pajama Ride and “East Coast Cruise”, post-RAGBRAI Blues and even a criterium in downtown…
Once you look at the big picture, I’m really happy to see how progressive Iowa is becoming with reagrds to cycling. Sure, there are still many that oppose bicycles on the road, but just think how far things have come in the last few years!
In fact, I just ran across the “Encouragement” section that I helped compile for the Bicycle Friendly designation application last year. If you have a few minutes… Read through this goodness… (Sorry for the spaced out formatting issues… I just pasted it quickly)
ENCOURAGEMENT SECTION ONLY
Based out of Des Moines, Bike to Work Week (BTWW) has been a growing state-wide event for the last six years. The “Bike to Work Week” branding is recognized state-wide where varied communities include the Des Moines metro area host Bicycle events for not only biking to work, but biking to school, church and just bicycling in general. Many breakfasts and free show locations, commuter discounts and other specials are also offered all week long.
As an incentive, Bike to Work week has offered prizes for those who register. Registration consists of a short 20 questions survey to gain some demographic information, commuting distances and frequencies and we ask for feedback about bicycling in Iowa. In the past this survey information has been used to connect trails, place bike racks, stripe bike lanes and help prove there was public demand for bike racks on buses. the is year as the prize for registering was a pair of custom “Bike to Work” socks by SockGuy. Over $2000 in $50 gift certificates from local bike shops were randomly drawn for those who were registered.
In 2003 BTWW was put on for less than $500. Each year, new corporate sponsorships enable the event to grow through bigger events, increased marketing via newspaper, T.V., radio, web and social media. $4.00 per gallon gas, “Being Green” and carbon footprint awareness has certainly helped to get more people on bicycles!
Real time registration statistics has helped increase employer participation as company’s strive to be in the top 10 list. The same applies for the Bicycle clubs. As soon as someone registers, the numbers are increased on the Bike to Work site.
Top Employers : http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/BTWStats.asp?Show=EP
Top Bicycle Clubs: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/BTWStats.asp?Show=CL
The top two participating Employers and Bicycle clubs are recognized as are the “Advocate of the year” and “Commuter of the year”. Custom Plaques are given to the winner’s on Bike to Work Day in front of a large crowd.
One of the BTWW events occurred on May 13th where Des Moines and one of the city’s most bicycle friendly employers; RDG Planning and Design hosted a “Mayor’s Invitational” where over 60 mayors, council persons and other city planners attended to hear about the growing bicycle culture in the Des Moines area, trails updates and to hear Andy Clarke of the League of American Bicyclists speak about Bicycle Friendly communities. The event was well received by all!
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Quick Facts – Bike to Work Week 2008 – May 10th-16th
2027 commuters registered (1,436 in 2007, 818 in 2006, 559 in 2005)
700 1st time commuters
715 employers were represented
201 bike clubs participated
61,135 commuting miles were pledged during the week
3,396 gallons of gasoline were saved by not driving a car this week
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2008 Bike to Work Links
These are only a few links on the Bike to Work site. Please spend a few minutes and check out all the information available.
Bike to Work home page: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike
Event List: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/Events.asp
BTW 101 and Bike Ed: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/BTW101.asp
Staging locations: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/StagingLocations.asp (Google map with breakfast, shower and staging locations)
Photos: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/Pictures.asp
History: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/History.asp
Statistics: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/BTWStats.asp?Show=EP
Sponsors: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/Sponsors.asp
Prize Winners: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike/winners.asp
2. How many people do you reach with events and activities during this celebration?
In 2008, 2027 commuter pledged to Bike to Work at least once during the week of May 10th-16th.
The month of May is one of BIKEIOWA.com busiest month’s and many commuters do not register, so the free registration is the best method we have to capture the numbers of commuters we touch.
This does not include the “non-cyclists” that become privy to the event via an event or being a coworker or a family member to a cyclist.
Lots of promotion is focused toward getting your friend and coworkers involved for Bike to Work Week with hopes that non-cyclists are converted to cyclists.
Each year the media coverage increases as BTWW become more widely known.
3. Do you actively promote Bike to Work Day or other bicycle commuting incentive programs?
Please describe. What portion of the community workforce do you reach?
(All) (Most) (Some) (Few) (None)
See question #1 and http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/bike for all the details about our Bike to Work activities and incentives.
A website “Drive Time Des Moines” ran by the Transportation Management Association offers year-round incentives for biking to work and taking other forms of alternative transportation. http://drivetimedesmoines.com/
www.BIKEIOWA.com has an active “Commuting” forum and offer assistance in finding safe commuter routes for cyclists.
The Des Moines Cycle Club also offers help to new commuters by offering a buddy system and help with route finding. http://www.dmcycleclub.com/
The Clif Bar 2 Mile Challenge has been promoted heavily on BIKEIOWA.com to help show how easy it is to bike to places
http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=780
4. Is there an annual bike tour or ride promoted to the general public in your community? Please
describe.
Yes, there are several.
The Mayor’s Annual Ride for Trails
The Mayor’s Annual Ride for Trails is a 20 or 30-mile bicycle ride through the City of Des Moines on city streets and on the city’s trail network. 2008 was the is the 21st annual year for this ride. Annually it attracts over 1,000 bicyclists from around the state of Iowa. All proceeds from the ride are used to improve trails and bicycling in the City of Des Moines. www.dmparks.org Event Details http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=827
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RAGBRAI
The Des Moines Register (based in Des Moines) hosts the world renown RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) which is the world’s long and oldest running tour. The week long ride takes place the last week in July and attract 10,000-20,000 cyclists from all over the world. The route differs each year, but always starts in the West and travels east from border to border. www.RAGBRAI.org
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Ride of Silence
Des Moines has participated in the Ride of Silence for fours year. On May 21st 2008 over 160 cyclists participated in a silent slow-paced ride in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on America’s public roadways. The Ride of Silence receives a police escort through the heart of downtown Des Moines. The event opens with the ride organizer reading off all the names of those Iowa cyclists who had been injured or killed that year. The crowd is then given the chance to “shout out” who they are riding for. Many families and friend have t-shirts made in honor of those who were lost. This is a very powerful event for the cycling community. In addition to the Des Moines Ride of Silence, five other Iowa communities also held Ride of Silence events. BIKEIOWA feature and video of the participants http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=839
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Track and Back Ride (TAB) Iowa Speedway Ride!
This ride, hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa is only in it’s second year, but attendance and promotion shows that it will be an annual event that will be a staple fall ride for the Des Moines area. Track and Back is a charity ride benefiting disadvantaged youth of Central Iowa. The main route is approximately 46 miles out and 46 miles back from the Iowa Speedway located in Newton Iowa. Yes, cyclists get to ride around the speedway track. What a unique experience. Event website – http://www.trackandback.com/. BIKEIOWA.com feature - http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=842
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Dr. Bob Breedlove Memorial Ride
In it’s third year, this ride pays tribute to the late Dr. Bob Breedlove who was killed in southern Colorado during the Race Across America on June 23, 2005. Robert Breedlove, a Des Moines doctor who is an accomplished endurance bicycle racer, was a big supporter and advocate of the Des Moines bicycling community long before there were “Bicycle friendly communities”. Bob’s motto was “It’s Another Day In Paradise!” and we remember that each time we ride.
Bob Breedlove history: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=676
Great photo from 2006: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/calendar/Ride.asp?m=&e=1811
2008 ride info: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/calendar/Ride.asp?m=&e=3325
Search results for Bob Breedlove on BIKEIOWA site: About http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/search/search.asp?results=Y&s=breedlove
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Cityview LiveStrong Day Unite for Cancer Ride
The 2nd annual LIVESTRONG ride on May 11th to help raise awareness for the Lance Armstrong LIVESTRONG Cancer Foundation and showcase downtown trails and entertainment opportunities. This 4.5 mile leisure ride through the downtown trails will start at Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines the to the Meredith Trail and ending at Principal Park to take in the afternoon I-Cubs game. Kids welcome. New this year – Start earlier and ride to Martensdale (46 miles) or Cumming (23 miles) via the Great Western Trail. Sag Stops provided along the way. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=829
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National Trails Weekend June 6-8
Celebrate all that the Des Moines area has to offer by participating in one of several Trail Daze events that have been scheduled for the weekend of June 6-8, National Trails Weekend! Bicycling events include: Trestle to Trestle Trail Grand Opening, Off-Road/Mountain Bike Ride, Farmers Market Bike Ride, Trails & Trills Ride, Pedal Power Scavenger Hunt, and Bike Sunday School Sunday http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=846
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Other Rides
Eight years ago, BIKEIOWA.com created an event calendar where event coordinators can post and edit their own rides for all types of rides. The calendar is searchable by ride type, keywords, months, etc.. which makes it easy to find a ride nearby. In the past there may have only been one ride on the weekend, now there are usually 10+ rides per weekend to choose from.
In 2007 there were 593 rides and bicycle related events listed on the BIKEIOWA.com event calendar. So far in 2008 426 events have been added. Many of these rides are annual rides held in the Des Moines area by bicycle clubs, charities, training rides, trail clean-ups, social, etc. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/calendar/calendar.asp?month=8&year=2008
5. Are there community road or mountain bike clubs, bicycle advocacy organizations or racing
clubs? Please describe.
There are a plethora of social, road, mountain bike, BMX and charity clubs in the area as well as over 100 different RAGBRAI teams are located in the Des Moines area.
www.BIKEIOWA.com is the website to go to for all Iowa cycling needs. The eight year old privately run site is based out Ankeny Iowa which is 8 miles north of Des Moines. The site is updated daily with Iowa cycling news, event Features, polls, forums, trails updates and is viewed by thousands of cyclists per day.
Main Clubs
The Des Moines Cycle Club is Des Moines’ largest and oldest bicycling club in the area and offers weekly and annual rides and monthly meeting with different types of speakers discussing bicycling related topics. http://www.dmcycleclub.com/
Lake Country Cyclists is a growing social club based out of Ankeny that offers club rides each night of the week. http://www.lakecountrycyclists.com/
Acme International Bike Club is an adult group of experienced bicycles with a relaxed easygoing style. Some of us are fast but we are mostly tourists or baggers who carry amazing amounts of gear. We know the trails and low traffic rural roads. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/misc/acme.asp
The All9Yards.com Woman’s Cycling Team, based out of Des Moines, IA consists of an 25 woman who are mostly moms that dress in pink and ride pink bikes. Some race and some are social riders. http://www.pinkbikerchicks.blogspot.com/
Central Iowa Trails Association (CITA) – “We like central Iowa DIRT” is their motto. CITA builds and maintains natural surface trails for shared, non-motorized use in central Iowa. We are an affiliate of the International Mountain Bicycle Association. In addition to our trail work and bicycle advocacy, we operate a chapter of the National Mountain Bike Patrol. They are the mastermind behind the 20+ miles of mountain biking goodness right in the heart of Des Moines. http://www.centraliowatrails.org/
Main Race Teams
The All9Yards.com Cycling Team, based out of Des Moines, IA consists of an Elite squad, with some of the region’s top amateur racers competing against other elite amateurs as well as professional cyclists in some of the nation’s top events as well as all the top regional events. The club has road, tri, and mountain bike cyclists. http://www.all9yardscycling.com/
Central Iowa Multisport is a USA Triathlon Registered club that began in the fall of 2002. Our mission is to: Unify multisport athletes within central Iowa, Help central Iowa’s multisport athletes achieve their goals and increase community awareness and involvement in multisport activities and events http://www.centraliowamultisport.com/
The Punk Rock Cycling Women’s Team is an amazing group of women racing and riding their bikes, promoting their sport, leading clinics, hosting races, writing zines, teaching others, setting the example and getting involved. http://www.punkrockcycling.com/
Triathlon Racers of Iowa (TRI) is a community of athletes in central Iowa who share a passion for the sport of triathlon. We provide athletes of all abilities with direction, motivation, support and friendship through group training and social interaction. TRI currently has members from Altoona, Ames, Ankeny, Altoona, Ames, Bondurant, Clive, Des Moines, Johnston, Madrid, Polk City, Urbandale, and West Des Moines. http://www.triracers.com/
The Des Moines Cycle Club Race Team is one of the oldest race teams in Iowa. It has been around for over 30 years as the competitive arm of the Des Moines Cycle Club. http://dmcycleclub.com/race.html
Other Teams
BIKEIOWA.com offers two sets of team and club links:
Iowa Bike Clubs: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/links/Links.asp?Link_Type=8
RAGBRAI Teams: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/links/Links.asp?Link_Type=1
6. How many specialty bicycle retailers (i.e. bike shops, not big box retailers like K-Mart or Wal Mart)
are there in your community?
There are sixteen bicycle retailers in the Des Moines area. Two new bike shops have opened their doors within the last year and a half.
There are of course many big box retailers like Wal-Mart, Scheels, Target etc. which are not counted here.
Altoona (1) http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/dealers/Dealers.asp?ACity=ALTOONA
Ankeny (2) http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/dealers/Dealers.asp?ACity=ANKENY
Des Moines (12) http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/dealers/Dealers.asp?ACity=DES+MOINES
Waukee (1) http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/dealers/Dealers.asp?ACity=WAUKEE
New Bike Shop information
Kyle’s Bikes in Ankeny - http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=820
Waukee Cycling & Fitness in Waukee – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=750
7. Are there other bicycling areas or facilities such as BMX tracks, velodromes or mountain biking
centers in your community?
There are four “official” mountain bike trails, three BMX facilities and two parks that are regularly used for road racing, criteriums and cross bike training in the Des Moines area
Center Trail
Center Trails are an urban gem — tight trails twisting through lush woodland in the heart of the city. This 10-mile system of single-track trails is named for its location in the center of the Des Moines metro and its proximity to the Des Moines Art Center and the former Science Center of Iowa. http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=6
Sycamore Trail
Polk County Conservation Board manages the 6.5-mile Sycamore Trail along the west bank of the Des Moines River. It’s a wide, flat dirt trail open to bicycling, hiking and cross-country skiing.
http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=21
Seven Oaks Trail
Take a ride on Seven Oaks’ 7.2 mile and growing technical mountain bike track. The course is laid out over 200 acres of wooded ravine and creek crossings. Daily Riding fee $3 plus waiver signature. Helmets are always required. Tent Camping
available. http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=22
Banner Lakes Trail
Located in Summerset State Park (Iowa’s newest state park), A beginner’s mountain biking trail opened the fall 2006 and a more difficult trail will open in the summer of 2008 where eight miles of mountain biking trails in the park will be built along with stunt park and separate trail for BMX riders.
http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=23
Des Moines Metro BMX
Central Iowa BMX racing, NBL sanctioned, In Ewing Park on Des Moines, south side. http://www.dsmmetrobmx.com/
IM BMX
Dedicated to help the sport of BMX grow in Iowa by becoming a leading team for the development of young riders. Creating a positive image of the BMX sport by introducing it to riders and their families where they can enjoy an afternoon together. http://www.imbmx.com
Saylor Skate Park
Saylor is a 15,625 s.f. indoor facility for skateboarding, inline skating, and BMX. Bikes welcome. 6359 NE 145th Street, Des Moines, IA 50313 http://www.saylorskatepark.com
Union Park
Union Park is located one mile north of I-235 between E. 9th and Pennsylvania Ave in Des Moines. The race loop is just under half a mile, mostly flat, with one very, very tiny incline. THERE ARE NO SHARP CORNERS!
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1183006. This park is used for training rides, crits, cyclocross practices and races.
- · “Race like a girl” series – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=3266
- · Cyclocross Practices – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2480
Waterworks Park
Located on Fleur Drive directly across from Gray’s lake, Water Works Park covers nearly 1,500 acres of open wooded areas. The park stretches from Fleur Drive west of 63rd Street, bounded by the Raccoon River on the north edge and George Flagg Parkway to the south. Biking, jogging, picnicking, fishing, and hiking are a few of the activities that park patrons enjoy. Cyclists use the four miles of park loops for training rides and races
- · Babysitters at Bike Races http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=817
- · Waterworks Park Fitness Fest – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=1504
- · Waterworks Park Omnium Race Series hosted by the All9Yards.com racing team http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=1392
8. Does your trails system have a unit of the National Mountain Bike Patrol? Patrollers inform, assist
and educate mountain bikers and other trail users.
Yes, The Central Iowa Trail Patrol (NMBP chapter) has been running for about 5 years…
http://www.imba.com/contacts/near_you/iowa.html#patrol
9. Are there opportunities to rent bicycles in your community or other recreational opportunities
involving bicycling? Please describe.
Yes,
BIKEIOWA.com lists a “bicycle rental” section
http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/links/Links.asp?Link_Type=30
Des Moines Bicycle Collective
In April 2008, the Des Moines Bicycle Collective opened it’s doors where bicycles can be “rented” for an extended period of time, or purchased for a low price
The Collective will be part bike library, part bike co-op, and part bike school. But more than this, the Collective will be a hub; a gathering place of people and bikes… http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=823
Brenton Bike Rentals
In August 2008, “Brenton Bike Rentals” opened for business. Ice skating in the winder and bike rentals during the other three seasons. The location is perfect for those visiting Des Moines for pleasure or business. http://www.brentonplaza.com/
Saylorville Lake Marina
The only marina on Saylorville Lake and is located just outside of Polk City and right on the Neal Smith Trail. The marina opened in the late 1970’s and has become a recreation destination. http://www.saylorvillemarina.com/
10. Do you have Safe Routes to School program that includes bicycling? How many schools are
involved? (All) (Most) (Some) (Few) (None)
Yes, Iowa has a Safe Routes to School program that is administered by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition and funded by the Iowa Department of Transportation. The Urbandale and SE Polk schools are the only who have received funding. All schools have been contacted for training from the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. Many may have run encouragement programs on their own.
- · The Iowa Bicycle Coalition names Safe Routes To School director (6/10/08)- http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=3116
- · http://www.dot.state.ia.us/saferoutes/
- · www.iowabicyclecoalition.org
11. Does your community have youth recreation and intervention programs that are centered
around bicycling?
Yes,
Dream Team
In 1996, a concern about the future of at-risk, disadvantaged youth brought together a small group of bicycle enthusiasts from RAGBRAI;, Bike World and the Riverfront YMCA in Des Moines, Iowa. Each fall, the mentors of the Dream Team collaborate with the Des Moines school system to identify youth, aged 13-18 years of age, who could benefit from the experience. Youth recruitment is dependent on the number of mentors and the funds available. During the winter months, teens and their mentors train indoors twice a week at Des Moines’ Riverfront YMCA. When the weather improves, outdoor training rides take place twice a week with the addition of weekend distance rides and campouts. On each training ride, Dream Team members ride with adult mentors. Mentors come from all walks of life and donate hundreds of volunteer hours. The mentors provide consistent support and the guidance necessary for the youth to gain the confidence and the technical riding skills needed to achieve their goal of completing RAGBRAI. http://www.dreamteamdsm.org/
Boys and Girls Club
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa have a cycling program at the clubs which specifically targets disadvantaged youth from ages 6-18. Everything from basic bike maintenance, riding etiquette and actual rides. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa are also involved with the Des Moines Bike Collective. http://www.bgcci.org
12. Do you publish a bike map and keep it up to date?
In August 2005 the first regional trails map for the Des Moines area was published to promote bicycling and walking. The first run of this map was 200,000 copies and was distributed in the Sunday Des Moines Register, all local bike shops and various kiosks in the area. It was a BIG hit with the public!
A new map was scheduled for print in early 2008, but the map took a back seat position with floods in the area. Des Moines is still working with FEMA on trail repairs. New map details are still being worked on with hopes of a new map being printed late 2008.
With the advent of Google Maps and social networking, the Trails and Greenways committee has been reviewing the different online mapping technologies. In the interim, we use these sites for trail maps
- · www.greaterdesmoinestrails.com
- · http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/trails/trails.asp (check out the video showcase!)
- · http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=6 (off-road)
- · http://www.seedesmoines.com/asp/visitors/maps.asp
- · http://www.inhf.org/iowatrails/index.htm
- · http://www.traillink.com/
13. Do you publish a map of mountain bike trails?
Yes, the official maps are posted online and the local bike shops have paper copies of the mountain bike trails.
http://www.centraliowatrails.com/blog/?page_id=6
14. Please describe any other efforts in your community to encourage cycling.
We are excited in Iowa to see cyclists of all ages hopping on their bicycles and becoming more and more avid riders. In fact two local publications just featured cyclists on their cover in July 2008. We can say that Des Moines finally has a Bicycle Culture!
- · ‘50 Plus Lifestyle’ did a piece called “Pedaling with a purpose” featuring Kim Diehl, 54 of Ankeny who lost 130 pounds after starting to ride a bicycle.
- · ‘Des Moines Moms” pieces was called “Bicycle breaks – Moms pedal for exercise, escape” which features the All9Yards.com Woman’s Cycling Team
- · Making Des Moines Bicycle Friendly
- · Des Moines – on it’s way to be a Bicycle Friendly Community! – a BIKEIOWA feature showcasing how Des Moines has made headway to become BFC. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=796
- · Bike-friendly developments in Des Moines (5/07) New bike racks installed including the indoor secure racks at the Liberty Bike Commuter Station http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2223
- · Des Moines’ First Official Bike Lanes – In November of 2006 The First Official Bike Lanes have officially been laid for the City of Des Moines http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=1875
- · Des Moines “Share The Road” Bus – The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), in conjunction with the 2007 Bike World Expo, will unveil its Share the Road “wrapped” bus on Saturday, March 3, 2007. The fluorescent green bus is embellished with vivid white letters reading: “Share the Road – same road, same rules, same rights.” The design on the Share the Road bus is intended to remind motorists and bicyclists to respect our traffic laws, and each other.http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=743
- · Liberty Bike Commuter Station – Biking to work just became a bit more convenient! Gym FX, in conjunction with the Liberty Bike Station within the Liberty Parking Garage at the corner of 6th Street and Grand Avenue, is now offering a Bicyclist-Friendly Shower Pass to those who commute to work on their bikes. Bikers interested in taking advantage of the new amenity can safely park their bikes within the Liberty Bike Station during the work day and use the locker rooms at Gym FX to get ready for work. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2238
- · Share the Road License Plate – In July 2007, the Iowa DOT has stepped forward to sponsor their first and only specialty plate. With the help of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition and other advocates around the state, the 500th plate was order in Dec 2007 and the plates were made. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/search/search.asp?results=Y&s=Share+the+Road+License+Plate&submit1=Search
The funds will be available as the Share the Road Fund to: - Educate motorists on how to safely share the road;
- Educate bicyclists on the rules of the road and safe riding;
- Educate event directors and bicyclists on best practices for event safety; and,
- Outreach to law enforcement on the rights and responsibilities of motorists and bicyclists.
- · Bus bike racks – DART’s new Bike & Ride Program is introduced to Greater Des Moines in 2005. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=590
DART Bike & Ride Program a Rolling Success – To celebrate the success of the program and encourage new users to try the bike racks, DART is allowing all passengers who board with a bike to ride for FREE during the month of October. The program has averaged over 1,300 uses a month since the bike racks were installed on DART’s 100-bus fleet, and set a record for uses (3,302) during August of 2007. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2593 and http://www.ridedart.com - · Bike Racks – In mid 2007, Des Moines adopted the standard inverted U bike racks and chose over 150 places for bike racks to be installed across the metro area.
- · Inductive Loops -In May 2008 Des Moines began to mark inductive loops at intersections so bicycle can trigger stop lights easier. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=835
- · Complete Streets – Des Moines proper adopted Complete Streets in 2008. In fact, here is a video from a local news station from August 4th 2008. http://www.kcci.com/video/17097715/index.html
- · Bicycle Master Plan – On Monday, Dec. 17, unanimously voted in favor of the Bike Friendly Community Goals this evening. Goals inc included plans for a $100,000 bike master plan.
http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=796 - · Bicycle Parking
More and more events are starting to offer secured bicycle parking. Some are free- · 80/35 Music Festival 7/08 – hundreds of bicycles used the free bicycling parking facilities during the inaugural progressive 80/35 music festival weekend. A security guard was on-duty the whole time http://www.80-35.com
- · Des Moines Art Festival – Ride your bike to the art festival, park it at a secure bike tent and enjoy the day. http://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/
- · Iowa State Fair – In 2006 the Iowa State Fair began offering designated bicycle parking for fair-goers. The Iwoa State Fair os one of the largest fairs in the nation. Parking cost $2.00. Security personnel are on duty but bring your own lock. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?ArticleID=865
- · Hy-Vee Triathlon Expo – CITA and BIKEIOWA.com hosted a free bicycle parking facility for the inaugural Hy-Vee Triathlon expo near the capital grounds
- · E911 markers - An E911 trail marking system was implemented for Des Moines and Polk County in October 2007. Trail users can use new trail signs to pinpoint locations on trails in case of emergency or to report fallen trees, etc. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=773
- · Share the Road signs – Plenty of share the Road signs have been installed in the past few years with more on the way. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=762
- · Events
- · Summer Iowa Games – the games, held between late June through late July offer a host of cycling related activities including a road race, Time trial, Mountain bike race, BMX races , a triathlon, and an adventure race. Something for everyone who wishes to compete on two wheels. http://www.iowagames.org/SummerGames/default.aspx
- · 80/35 festival bicycle parking – See above for the Bicycle parking offered at the 80/35 festival
- · Des Moines Marathon Course Support – Each year BIKEIOWA.com coordinates 50+ cyclists to aid with course support for the Des Moines Marathon. The bicyclists have gained national attention for their support practices and other marathons had since added bicycle course support of their own.
- · MS150 – Several MS150 rides are held around the state to benefit the National MS Society. http://bikenth.nationalmssociety.org/site/PageServer?pagename=BIKE_NTH_Register
- · Penny’s Pieathlon – It’s an event similar to a triathlon but substitute the swimming with a piece of pie. The first annual Penny’s Pieathlon will be held Saturday, June 23 in Adel. The event includes a walk/run, bike ride and a slice of homemade pie. Proceeds benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=740
- · Track and Back – See elsewhere in the encouragement section for information about the Track & Back ride.
- · Racing
- · Hy-Vee Triathlon – triathlons across the USA are very popular right now and that is no different for Des Moines Iowa. The $700,000 prize purse make the Hy-Vee Triathlon one of the best payout for any race out there. Athletes from all over the world attended the 2nd annual triathlon held June 22nd 2008. http://hy-veetriathlon.com
- · Des Moines Dirty Duathalon – Des Moines’ second annual off-road duathlon is a non-profit venture supporting trail development in central Iowa. The race is presented by all9yardslending.com and hosted by Capital Striders and Central Iowa Trail Association. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=778
- · Racing teams – The Des Moines area boasts a large number of active racing teams that include road racing, time trials, BMX , mountain biking and cyclocross races. See elsewhere in the encouragement section for specifics.
- · Race like a Girl series – The RACE LIKE A GIRL criterium series will be this Thursday (7/31/08) at Union Park in Des Moines The races will be short, track-style events… meaning you could be racing 2 laps or 20 depending on the schedule we choose. Perfect for beginners and women… but men and fast cats can surely find a good time as well. Cost: $5 for girls, $10 for boys. Not interested in racing ??? This is a great venue for spectating too! http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=3266
- · IMBCS series – The Iowa Off Road Cycling Association (IMBCS) is the governing body for the Iowa Mountain Bike Championship Series (IMBCS) and the Iowa 24 Hour MTB Championships. In 2008 there are more than 20 mountain bike races hosted in Iowa. Four races are held in the Des Moines area. http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/IORCA/
- · Cross Mafia Cyclocross series – Since 2004 this small dedicated group puts on the majority of the cyclocross racing in Central Iowa. They put this type of racing on the map in Iowa and much of the proceeds goes toward the Iowa chapter for Colitis Foundation of America. View many news items about this type of racing in Iowa. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/search/search.asp?results=Y&s=Cross+Mafia&submit1=Search
- · Punk rock Cycling – An all woman’s race team appeared in the Des Moines area in October 2007 and they have not looked back since! http://www.punkrockcycling.com/
Other bikeiowa.com info on the team: http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/search/search.asp?results=Y&s=punkrockcycling&submit1=Search - · Culture
- · Woman on bikes – A influx of woman on bicycles has been seen in the Des Moines Bicycling culture. Punk Rock cycling, a new all woman race team was formed. This alternative race team sparked other “all woman” teams such as the “All9Yards.com Woman’s Cycling Team” and the “Day Drinkers”. Races that used to have only a couple of woman participate, now have teams of woman racing.
- · Punk Rock Cycling – http://www.punkrockcycling.com/
- · All9Yards.com Woman’s Cycling Team – http://www.pinkbikerchicks.blogspot.com/
- · Rasmussen’s Bike shop has quite a few woman on their team
- · Woman on bikes – A influx of woman on bicycles has been seen in the Des Moines Bicycling culture. Punk Rock cycling, a new all woman race team was formed. This alternative race team sparked other “all woman” teams such as the “All9Yards.com Woman’s Cycling Team” and the “Day Drinkers”. Races that used to have only a couple of woman participate, now have teams of woman racing.
- · Weekly Rides
Many weekly rides take place in the Des Moines area. Here are a few of the most popular…- · Ritual ride – hosted by the Punk Rock Cycling, this ride has become the “ritual” for Wednesday nights as newbie cyclists are invited to ride with the pack for a 20-60miles ride from the East Village to West Des Moines and beyond. A great ride for camaraderie.
- · Irwin’s Bike Shop Wednesday night ride – the Johnston shop closes at 5:00pm on Wednesday to host a 30 mile ride up around the Saylorville reservoir and back. Post ride grub at El Mariachi for tacos.
- · Wednesday taco ride – Mountain biking at Des Moines finest dirt trails. The group meets at Rasmussen’s bike shop and rides the center trails for a couple of hours and heads to Giff’s for tacos afterwards.
- · Kyle’s Tuesday night ride – A new Tuesday night ride at a new Bike shop in Ankeny just started in the summer of 2008. Riders who show up choose the route and the distance. Meet at Kyle’s Bike shop in Ankeny at 5:00pm.
- · Barr Bike hosts a Sunday morning 40 mile ride from the Raccoon River Valley Trailhead in Waukee. Ride west to Adel on the trail then take county roads into Redfield.
- · Waukee Cycling and Fitness, in Waukee, offers “trainer nights” on Thursday evenings during the winter months or bad weather days. Meet at 6:30pm at the shop
- · BIKEIOWA.com – is the website to go to for all Iowa cycling needs. The eight year old privately run site is based out Ankeny Iowa which is 8 miles north of Des Moines. The site is updated daily with Iowa cycling news, event Features, polls, forums, trails updates and is viewed by thousands of cyclists per day. www.BIKEIOWA.com
- · Bike World Bike Expo – Don’t miss Iowa’s Largest Bike Sale and Exposition, March 15th and 16th at the 7 Flags Event Center in Clive IA http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=811
- · Cycling Update is a newer website that focuses on the Iowa Racing scene by bringing racing info to one site. www.cyclingupdate.com
- · Cup O’ Dirt – Pretty simple – ride 12 centuries on gravel and get a cup crafted from Iowa dirt. http://www.cyclingupdate.blogspot.com/
- · Babysitters at Bike Races – The Punk Rock Cycling Women’s Race Team recently announced that they’ll be providing babysitters at all of their races in 2008. Moms and dads looking for a race series to do no longer have to worry about finding a sitter. They can bring the kids along and the entire family can enjoy a day at the races. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=817
- · Quarter Rage – spontaneous mountain bike racing. Throw in a quarter, race a 4.5 mile loop. He/She with the fastest time gets the quarters to buy tacos at a local tavern called Giff’s.
- · Fat Tire Rides – Several cruiser rides have appeared on the scene in the last couple of years. Many just cruise downtown or ride to a couple or restaurants for Steak night or ice-cream
- · “The Kim west Radio Cycling Show” – A call-in talk show devoted exclusively to bicycling, the only show of its kind in the nation. Host Kim West is a dedicated and knowledgeable cyclist, having ridden bicycles for over 50 years. He’s raced bicycles since 1983, and his knowledge and wit, plus his willingness to “stir the pot” guarantees a lively discussion on this weekly, Sunday night show [airs live 600 to 700 pm, cst, and available via podcast and i-tunes], which covers all aspects of cycling, from racing to commuting and everything in-between. http://www.kxno.com/pages/kimwest.html
- · Social Networking – with the advent of blogging, Facebook and other social media, it has never been easier to support one’s passion for cycling. Hundreds of blogs exist in Iowa. The Iowa Bicycle Coalition and BIKEIWOA each have a listing of the most popular blogs and they are adding more each month.
- · Education
- · Iowa Bicycle Coalition – The Iowa Bicycle Coalition is an exciting organization, working to promote Iowa cycling as safe and enjoyable recreation and transportation. The 501(c)(3) non-profit group was launched in June 2004 by bicycling advocates from across Iowa and will unite the voices of road riders, mountain bikers, recreation riders, commuters, and anyone else who prefers a bicycle for recreation and transportation. http://www.iowabicyclecoalition.org
- · LCI instructors – 14 cyclists attended a 20-hour League Cycling Instructor (LCI) Road I class in September 2007. Several Bike-Ed classes were taught by the newly certified League Cycling Instructors.
- · Iowa Bike Summit – The Iowa Bicycle Summit is sponsored jointly by the Iowa Department of Transportation and the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. Sessions are held for both city planners/officials as well as the average cyclist who want to become involved with advocacy. http://www.iowabicyclecoalition.org/summit.htm
- · Health Fairs – BIKEIOWA.com and the Bike World staff regularly attend health fairs that the larger employers offer. Employers lie Wells Fargo, the Principal Financial Group and EMC Insurance hold annual health fairs to expose their employees to different way to become and stay healthy. Hundreds of maps are given out each year along with expertise on riding in Des Moines, where the trails are, how to commute and general bicycling questions.
- · Maintenance classes – Most of the local bicycle shops offer different levels of bicycle maintenance classes over the course of the year. Some classes are free, others charge a minimal fee. The Des Moines Bicycle Collective also offers regular classes and “How To” sessions
- · IDOT drivers license safety questions – The Iowa driver’s License manual now has bicycling related questions to make drivers aware that they need to “share the road”.
- · Safe Routes to Schools – see Question #10 in the Encouragement section for more info.
- · Tourism
- · Central Iowa Trails system – a 330-mile network of trails will soon be connected in central Iowa. Two 100 miles loops with many other trails and connectors will make central Iowa the Trails Capital of the World. Efforts are being made to showcase the trails system and how tourism dollars can affect economic development in the smaller communities the trails pass through.
- · Iowa Transportation Map for Bicyclists - Initially published in 2000, this statewide map shows hundreds of miles of multi-use trails that pass through woodlands, prairies and parks – all highlighting the beauty of Iowa’s landscapes. In addition, traffic levels are indicated for all paved roadways so bicyclists can choose the routes that match their level of riding experience and enhance safety. Information highlighted on the back of the map includes trail maps of the state’s largest cities; a summary of Iowa’s bicycling laws; information about 50 multi-use trails that are five miles or longer; cycling safety tips; and contacts, including Web sites, for additional information on cycling in Iowa. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?ArticleID=867
- · RRVT (Raccoon River Valley Trails) website – The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association, a non-profit membership group, will also facilitate tourism and economic development initiatives up and down the 17-year-old trail. It now stretches 56 miles from Jefferson on the north, to the Des Moines metro area. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=631 and http://www.raccoonrivervalleytrail.org/
- · Business
- · New bike shops - Two new bike shops have opened their doors in the Des Moines area within the last year and a half. Both shops reside within 100 feet of a bike trail and both shops have exceeded their first year-expectations. It’s great to see the area sustain new bike shops as well as the existing shops.
- · Kyle’s Bikes in Ankeny - http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=820
- · Waukee Cycling & Fitness in Waukee – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=750
- · New bike shops - Two new bike shops have opened their doors in the Des Moines area within the last year and a half. Both shops reside within 100 feet of a bike trail and both shops have exceeded their first year-expectations. It’s great to see the area sustain new bike shops as well as the existing shops.
- · Bike Rack installation Incentive – The Trails Committee is working with the city of Des Moines to offer a bike rack incentive for businesses who want to install bike racks near their business. The City will pay 50% of the cost of the bike rack and will perform the installation. A win win for everyone.
- · El Bait Shop – The 1970′s fishing themed Mexican restaurant has become a favored hang-out for Des Moines cyclists. 26 U-shaped bike racks (space for 52 bikes) were installed in May 2007 in front of the El Bait Shop! which is the most bicycle racks in one place in the city of Des Moines that I know of! By the fall of 2008, more bike racks will be installed to house over 100 bicycles in racks. The back of the menu at El Bait Shop is all about cycling in Iowa! http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=758 and http://www.elbaitshop.com/
- · Prairie Trail Development – A new 1,031 acre planned community in Ankeny (8 miles north of Des Moines) will include over 13 miles of bicycle trails and will connect three of the metro’s major trails - Gay Lea Wilson, Neal Smith and Ankeny to Woodward. Those 13 miles position Ankeny as the hub in the 330-mile network of the Central Iowa Trails system. www.PrairieTrailAnkeny.com
- · Des Moines Bike Collective – See Question #9 in the encouragement section for more info
- · Brenton Bike Rental – See Question #9 in the encouragement section for more info
- · Cyclist Discounts – A section of BIKEIOWA.com is dedicated to showcase discounts that businesses offer to cyclists. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/links/Links.asp?Link_Type=27
- · Trails
- · The Central Iowa Trails System – See tourism section for more info
- · Trail connectors – Central Iowa is making a few very important trail connectors in 2008 that will link many of the arterial trails. This not only helps with the two 100 mile loops, but it establishes more commuting and recreational routes for cyclists.
- · Trail signage -
- · Trestle to Trestle Trail – On Saturday, November 10, 2007 the Trestle to Trestle Trail will open to the public. This 3.75 mile 10 ft. wide asphalt trail connects the Inter Urban Trestle Bridge (south of the Euclid Bridge) to the Trestle Bridge (north of I-80/35) connecting to the Johnston trail system. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=770
- · Ankeny to Woodward Trail – Work began in late May 2008 on 19.6 miles of the 25-mile trail, being built on an abandoned railroad bed. The trail will eventually connect the cities of Ankeny and Woodward, as well as Slater, Sheldahl and Madrid in between. “This is the first major recreation trail out of Ankeny and will position our city to be a major part of the Central Iowa Trail Loop,” Parks and Recreation Department Director Todd Redenius said in a statement. http://www.a2wtrail.org
- · Walnut Creek Connector – The Walnut Creek Trail is ‘about to link every corner of metro’ . Des Moines recreation enthusiasts will be able to make an easier jog from the city to the suburbs following construction of a key Iowa trail segment. The nearly three-quarter-mile segment would run from North Valley Drive to the Bill Riley Trail along Walnut Creek, to create a link with the rest of the trail stretching from Jefferson, through the metro area into downtown Des Moines and back north to Big Creek State Park near Saylorville Lake. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=815 and http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=771
- · Trails Clean-up Days – Many trails clean-up occur each year in Central Iowa. Events are organized by Polk County, the various metro cities, Neighborhood associations and Volunteers that just want to ride on a cleaner trail. Here is one example from April 2008 http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/calendar/Ride.asp?m=&e=3113
- · Off-road Trail building – Central Iowa Trails Association (CITA) has worked with central Iowa landowners, the Corp of Engineers and many local Parks departments to build some of the best off-road trails in all of Iowa. Find out about CITA here: http://www.centraliowatrails.org/
- · Above & Beyond
- · Johnston Bike to Work Week Student Participation – A few teachers at the Johnston High School had helped promote “Bike to School Day” in conjunction with “Bike to Work Week”. To their amazement, over 550 students rode their bike to school on Monday, May 8th 2008. The photos are well worth viewing. http://bikeiowa.smugmug.com/gallery/5091924_nQkkn#P-1-21
- · Trails Ambassador Program - Through the Polk County Conservation Board a new program has been started called the “Polk County Trails Ambassador Program”. Craig Stafford and his friends have been cleaning trails for the over 4 years on their own time, and volunteering much of their weekends to make Polk County trails more enjoyable. Craig worked with the Polk County Conservation Board to become the first Trails Ambassador in Polk County in April 2008.
Craig and his crews have been instrumental hosting trail clean-ups days this Spring., and will continue clean-ups throughout the year. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2996 - · Beaverdale Bicyclists – In September 2007, A small group of bicycle enthusiasts met in the back room of a local hardware store and began planning for some trails revitalization in their area. A Beaverdale Main Street Initiative (MSI) was being started and the cyclists wanted to make sure trails and bike lanes were part of the initiative. The group laid out it’s plan, and performed street studies, questionnaires, door to door ‘meet & greets’ and within a few months they had enough data to present to the Beaverdale Neighborhood association who quickly bought into the recommended improvements for invigorating the neighborhood. http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2527
- · Volunteers / Groups / Orgs
- · Central Iowa Bicycle-Pedestrian Roundtable – The Central Iowa Bicycle-Pedestrian Roundtable is an advisory committee to and is sponsored by the Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (DMAMPO), consisting of community and non-profit representatives working to promote a comprehensive, coordinated, and continuing transportation system in the development of all bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Topics that are covered at these meetings include: complete streets, bicycle lanes, design standards for trails and bicycle facilities. Beginning in the summer of 2006 the DMAMPO will be starting on the first bicycle and trail master plan for Central Iowa and the Des Moines metro area.http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2011
- · Trails & Greenways Committee – The Trails & Greenways Committee (TAG) is an advisory committee to and is sponsored by the Des Moines Parks & Recreation Department and Polk County, consisting of citizens from various communities and representatives from the DM Park Board; they work to promote Land Trails, Bike Lanes & routes, Water Trails and Greenways. Subcommittees exist for each group. They meet monthly and have been instrumental with making the Des Moines area more bicycle friendly in the past few years.
- · Friends of Trails Group – a newly formed group in 2008 that will help promote central Iowa trails. They have included cyclists, runners, walkers, skaters, birdwatchers and equestrians into their group.
- · See above questions and sections for more groups and organizations.
- · News
Here are just a few news items that showcase the efforts the Des Moines area has taken to become of Bicycle Friendly community
- · DM pedals way toward bike-friendly recognition – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2443
- · Des Moines’ First Official Bike Lanes – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=1875
- · Des Moines – on it’s way to be a Bicycle Friendly Community! – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=796
- · Des Moines has commitment from City to be a BFC! – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2731
- · LIVESTRONG “Bike to the Ball Park” a big Success! – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2214
- · Des Moines gains LCI Certification – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=774
- · Ride of Silence 2008 – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=839
- · Bike To Work Week 2007 Recap – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=739
- · DART bike rack usage hits all-time high! – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/features/featuresdisplay.asp?articleid=769
- · Share the Road Bus to Debut in Greater Des Moines – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2056
- · Bike-friendly developments in Des Moines – http://www.bikeiowa.com/asp/hotnews/newsdisplay.asp?newsid=2223
