Area residents should be aware of increased bike traffic as an annual event is set to return tomorrow in Perry and Rippey.

Perry Chamber Director Lynsi Pasutti says around 600 have pre-registered for the 49th Annual Bike Ride to Rippey, which will travel 24 miles from Perry to Rippey and back. She adds that additional riders will be in town and that local residents should keep an eye out for riders not only on the route itself but also around town.

Pasutti details Willis Avenue will be closed between 1st and 2nd Street starting around 6 a.m. before the group start at 10 a.m. 

“From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. is our registration at the Hotel Pattee so the peak is really 9-10 a.m. when everyone gathers. So maybe avoid the area a little bit, or come down ahead of time to be a part of the bicycle parade and cheer on the riders as they head out of town.” 

Pasutti outlines that the route will start at the corner of Willis Avenue and 2nd Street. Riders will travel along 2nd Street to 3rd Street before turning left on Park Street at the T-intersection to head out of town on 1st Avenue/Highway 144. Pasutti adds that riders will then take a right onto P54/Clover Avenue, which is where the pit stop is located with a bonfire, Perry Hy-Vee hot chocolate stop and other vendors. The route will continue west on E57/290th into Rippey.

She cautions drivers to be aware of increased bike traffic along the route throughout the day as riders head out of town in the morning and return later in the afternoon. 

Pasutti says there is still time to get signed up for BRR. She adds that while pre-registration is closed, day-of registration will be available from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hotel Pattee. 

Visit the Perry Chamber’s website for more information.