GREENFIELD, Iowa — The city of Greenfield will welcome RAGBRAI riders in July, just two months after a deadly and destructive tornado ripped through town.
“After careful consideration and many conversations with local officials and partners, we have decided to welcome the RAGBRAI community on this year’s ride,” said Gina School, RAGBRAI Greenfield committee co-chair and local business owner.
Greenfield was originally announced as a meeting town on the RAGBRAI 2024 route in April. But after the EF-4 tornado on May 21 killed four people and destroyed close to 200 homes, it was uncertain if the small community would still participate.
Ultimately, organizers in Greenfield say the level of support and compassion the town has received following the tornado is what pushed them to stay on the route.
“Since the day after the tornado, the RAGBRAI team and riders from all over the country have reached out with an abundance of love and support,” School said. “We hope to allow riders to see some of the devastation but also experience our beautiful untouched historic town square, visit our local businesses and hear the stories of survival and perseverance from our citizens.”
RAGBRAI itself is also supporting the Greenfield community. Recently, RAGBRAI officials rode through Greenfield to learn how the organization can best support the town.
"With Greenfield’s decision to host, our team is committed to providing any support they will need to be successful that day,” said Matt Phippen, RAGBRAI ride director. “Greenfield’s resilience after the tornado is a testament to the strength of their community. The people of Iowa are the driving force that make this ride so special.”
In celebration of Greenfield's resilience, the theme for the day is "Greenfield Strong: Rising After the Storm".
RAGBRAI 2024 begins July 20. More details regarding Greenfield's RAGBRAI plans, including the detailed bicycle and vehicle routes, will be released soon.
To donate to tornado relief efforts in Greenfield, click here.