From The Mayor: Celebrate Bike Month on Johnston’s Trails

May is Iowa Bike Month – the month set aside to celebrate all that the bicycle has to offer and the many reasons people ride.  Whether you bike to work or school, ride for recreation or exercise, or do it just to save time or money – we have many ways you can get celebrate Iowa Bike Month right here in Johnston. 

Thursday, May 8 is Bike to School Day.  Students of every age all over Johnston will fill the trails as they make their way to school via bicycles, skate boards and even on foot in their Nikes and Chuck Taylors. Johnston school bus drivers will be surprised by the many empty seats their buses this Thursday.

On Friday, May 9, join me and dozens of Johnston residents and employees on the second annual Mayor’s Bike Ride.  Meet us at Hy-Vee at noon for a fun 3 mile bike ride on Johnston’s trails.  The weather forecast looks great. Finish it with us and you’ll be treated to a healthy (and really good) lunch provided by the Johnston Hy-Vee.  The ride is one of many central Iowa community rides that will make you eligible to win a Passport Adventure prize. Check out the Des Moines Bicycle Collective website for details at http://bikemonthiowa.com/

On Saturday, May 10, the Johnston Parks Department will hold its annual Bicycle Roundup in the Pioneer parking lot (corner of Pioneer Parkway and South Drive) beginning at 1:00 p.m.  The event will include information on bicycle safety, rules of the road and trails, helmet checks, and an obstacle course for the kids.  A Family Trail Ride is also planned that the entire family can participate in from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.  The ride will end at Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shop where all participants will receive a free ice cream treat.

The development and expansion of Johnston’s trails has been a priority in our community for years.  Over 35 miles of connected trails are currently available for Johnston residents and visitors to use and enjoy. 

Hope to see you on the trails in May as we celebrate Iowa Bike Month.