Mayor Declares May as WalkBike Month in Decorah

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — The city of Decorah will celebrate WalkBike Month in May following a mayoral proclamation recognizing the community's commitment to health, safety, sustainability and connectivity. Decorah is widely regarded as one of the most walkable and bikeable communities in the Midwest. With an extensive network of trails, sidewalks and bike routes—along with access to schools, parks, downtown and Luther College—active transportation is both practical and accessible WalkBike Month aims to encourage walking and biking as everyday transportation options. Events and initiatives throughout May are supported by Upper Explorerland's Safe Routes to School program and community partners. Planned activities include: — Recycle Your Bicycle: A monthlong effort promoting bicycle exchange and waste reduction. Donations and exchanges will take place at the Upper Explorerland parking lot across from Decorah Middle School. — DECORIDE: 10 a.m. May 2. An annual community cycling fundraiser beginning at the Luther Bell, benefiting the Decorah Community Clinic and Iowa Food Hub. — WalkBike to School Day: May 6. Students and families are encouraged to walk or bike to school. A volunteer-led walk will depart from the Decorah Public Library at 8:30 a.m. — Bike to Work Week: May 11-17. Part of a national initiative led by the League of American Bicyclists promoting active commuting. — WalkBike Pizza & Play: 5:30-7 p.m. May 16 at Will Baker Park, featuring free food, face painting and family activities. — WalkBike to Worship: May 17. Encouraging walking and biking to faith and community gatherings. Additional efforts include bike safety education in local schools, distribution of no-cost helmets for students in need, transportation safety videos released throughout the month, and signage and handouts highlighting walkable and bikeable routes. A WalkBike Bingo program will also run throughout May, with participants eligible to win a $50 Chamber Dollar gift card. WalkBike Month is a collaborative effort involving the city of Decorah, Decorah Parks and Recreation, Decorah Police Department, Decorah Public Library, Decorah Community School District, Decorah Sustainability Commission, Luther College Bike Council, Strong Towns, Winneshiek County Recycling and the Winneshiek Energy District. Organizers note the initiative also comes as construction season begins, encouraging residents to consider walking or biking to help reduce traffic congestion. Drivers are urged to slow down, watch for pedestrians and cyclists, and use caution in construction zones. For more information, visit uerpc.org/walkbike-ne-iowa. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.