Ride the Island, June 15

Sunday, June 15, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Quad-City Times Parking Lot, 500 East Third Street, Davenport IA

Delivering an exciting twist on the organization's annual Father's Day activity Ride the River, Davenport's River Action will this year host hours of outdoor fun in Ride the Island, a June 15 opportunity for cyclists to ride the roads and trails on the Rock Island Arsenal while exploring its rich history and visiting iconic landmarks.

Departing from the Quad-City Times parking lot in Davenport, Ride the Island riders will cross the Government Bridge on the downstream bike trail, and enter the Davenport gate at the Arsenal. The route leads around the north and south sides of the Island. Turning right on Gillespie, riders proceed south to the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, then turn around and head north back to the bike trail. Next, taking a right on East Avenue, riders then proceed south to Memorial Park to enjoy food, music, and fun activities for the whole family. Riders will return to the bike path by heading north on East Avenue and following the outer trail along Blundt Road. all the way to Sylvan Drive, where they will head north on Sylvan to Rodman Avenue, and head back to the Quad-City Times parking lot.

This inaugural Ride the Island event is "open house" style and runs from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The total route is about 10 miles, but participants are invited to make their rides as long or short as they wish, depending on the stops made and how many loops people want to take. Helmets are required for all riders on Arsenal Island, and those who don't currently have one can buy one for $10 from River Action. Two repair stations will be available along the route, passes to Arsenal Island are not required of registants to participate in this event, and no headphones or earbuds are permitted. E-bikes, however, are allowed, and must follow etiquette below to keep everyone safe. River Action urges Ride the Island participants to abide by a few simple safety guidelines: travel at a rate of speed that is reasonable and prudent, not exceeding 15 mph; announce yourself when passing cyclists and pedestrians; look over your shoulder before turning; watch for little kids who are learning bicycle etiquette; and stay aware of your surroundings.

Registration for the June 15 Ride the Island event is $15 for adults, $5 for kids, and $35 for families of three to eight individuals. Commemorative T-shirts can also be purchased for $15, and more information on the Father's Day event is available by calling (563)322-2969 and visiting RiverAction.org.