WAUKEE, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa Capitol Bureau) – The route of the 2025 Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) has been unveiled. This year, riders in the 52nd annual event will start their journey in Orange City. To wrap up, they’ll end the ride in Gutenberg. In between, they will stay overnight in Milford, Estherville, Forest City, Iowa Falls, Cedar Falls, and Oelwein. RAGBRAI Route Director Matt Phippen says it’s a shorter route this year at 406 miles. “It’s flatter, you know last year we had over 18,000 feet of climb. This year, we’re a little over 10,000, so 8,000 feet difference. It is the second shortest route so it’s obviously shorter than previous years. We have some pretty incredible towns that we’re ready to show for riders this year,” he said.
DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) – Cycling and trail use across the state of Iowa brings at least $1.4 billion into Iowa every year. That’s according to a study released Saturday by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. The Economic Impacts of Cycling and Trails Study, conducted by Scioto Analysis, focuses on how cycling supports Iowa’s local economies, workforce, talent attraction and retention, rural revitalization, and quality of life. It shows an estimated 900,000 Iowans ride their bicycles on Iowa’s 2,000 miles of multi-use trails every year. According to the study, bicycle-related tourism generates $13 million annually, supporting local economies. Trail construction and maintenance investments have a $24 million annual economic impact, supporting rural revitalization with 260 jobs, primarily in construction. Additionally, Iowa’s bicycle retail sector generates an additional $56 million in economic impact annually, supporting workforce development with 800 jobs statewide and attracting and retaining talent in the state. The study also shows that bicycle commuting prevents at least 1,000–1,500 tons of carbon emissions annually, helping to combat climate change. Bicycle clubs and organizations contribute 250,000 volunteer hours in Iowa annually, valued at $7.1 million, fostering social and community connectivity. Cycling also improves health outcomes and quality of life, with active cyclists showing a 28% reduced risk for breast cancer, 77% reduced risk for colorectal cancer, and a variety of other mental and physical health benefits. Most notably, the study demonstrates that active cyclists are 49% less likely to experience chronic poor mental health.
DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) -One person was killed in a crash in Dubuque County late Friday night. It happened at the intersection of Skyline Road and Highway 151 just outside Key West a little after 9 Friday night. Authorities say the driver of a Nissan SUV was traveling west on Skyline road and failed to stop at the intersection of the highway. That’s when a semi truck crashed into the driver’s side of the SUV. The driver of the Nissan was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
ROBINS, Iowa (KCRG) – Police say two people were hurt after a car was hit by a train in Robins. It happened near the intersection of East Main and Front Streets on Friday night. Police say the 15-year-old passenger of the car was taken to the hospital with severe injuries. The 17-year-old driver was also taken to the hospital and is expected to survive. The accident remains under investigation.
