May 16, 2025 - News

New grassroots bike group "Ride On" launches in Des Moines

Jason Clayworth

A photo of Carol Maher. — Carol Maher recently sold her car and used the proceeds to start Ride On Des Moines. Photo: Courtesy of DSM Parks and Recreation.

A new cycling advocacy group has emerged in the metro: Ride On Des Moines.

Why it matters: Pedestrian fatalities have recently increased in Iowa.

Members plan to speak regularly at local government meetings and to raise awareness and consideration for enhanced bike infrastructure.

Catch up quick: Ride On was launched last week by Carol Maher, a former DSM Plan and Zoning Commissioner and longtime advocate for improvements in pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Zoom in: The organization is not a nonprofit and does not charge dues; it is merely a self-funded initiative aimed at encouraging more people to ride and persuading city leaders to listen, Maher tells Axios.

State of play: The group will urge DSM to enact an ordinance prohibiting the obstruction of bike lanes.

It will also advocate for a requirement that new multi-housing or office buildings offer indoor bike storage.

What's next: The group urges bike advocates to utilize the Bike Lane Uprising app for reporting bike lane obstructions.

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New grassroots bike group "Ride On" launches in Des Moines

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