July 2025 | Raccoon River Valley Trail Association Newsletter

Two Major Trail Projects Need Your Support

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is facing two significant infrastructure challenges, and we need your help to move these critical projects forward.

Lighted Bridge in Adel

As many know, the Lighted Bridge in Adel was damaged by a fire this spring and will remain closed until at least May 2026.  "The bridge structure is not covered under an insurance policy, so no insurance funds are available to offset the estimated $896,000 repair cost.

Snyder & Associates, a civil engineering and structural design firm, is currently in the preliminary design phase for the bridge repairs. Geotechnical and hydrological studies are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Once those are finalized, the firm will apply for a floodplain permit.  

If funding is secured by October, Dallas County will be able to proceed with the project and keep it on schedule for opening in May 2026.

Trail Resurfacing: Jefferson to Yale

A second major project is the complete resurfacing of the trail between just south of Jefferson and the city of Yale, covering approximately 16 miles of paved trail. This section, one of the oldest on the trail system, was originally constructed in the mid-1990s and has seen significant wear due to age, weather, and consistent use by cyclists, walkers, and other recreationists.

Why It’s Needed:

• The surface is deteriorating in many places, with cracks, root heaves, and erosion that present safety hazards and accessibility issues.

• Resurfacing is essential to maintain the long-term integrity of the trail and to continue attracting visitors to this popular stretch of the RRVT.

• Improving the trail surface will also support local economies, as smoother, safer trail conditions help bring more users to towns like Jefferson, Cooper, Herndon, and Yale.

Project Scope and Cost:

• The project involves removal of damaged asphalt, base repair where needed, and complete resurfacing with new asphalt along the full stretch.

• Estimated total cost: $5 million

• Some funding has been secured, but additional support is still needed to bring this important project to completion.

Both projects will require a combination of public and private support. Dallas, Greene, and Guthrie counties are actively pursuing grants and foundation funding—but individual donations, no matter the amount, are incredibly valuable and deeply appreciated.

Why People Should Contribute

1. Preserve a Beloved Community Asset

   The Raccoon River Valley Trail isn’t just a bike path—it’s a regional treasure used by thousands each year for recreation, transportation, and wellness. Donating helps preserve a space that benefits people of all ages and backgrounds.

2. Enhance Safety and Accessibility

   Both the Adel bridge and the Jefferson-to-Yale stretch are essential to the safe and continuous use of the trail. Timely repairs and resurfacing prevent injuries and make the trail more accessible to everyone, including families, seniors, and people with disabilities.

3. Protect Long-Term Investments

   Like roads and parks, trails need maintenance. Investing in repairs now saves significantly more money in the long run and protects the millions already invested in building and expanding the trail.

4. Boost Local Economies

   Trails like the RRVT bring visitors to our communities who support local businesses—from cafes and ice cream shops to lodging and retail. Your contribution supports not just the trail, but the small towns along it.

5. Leave a Legacy

   Your gift helps ensure the trail will be here—and in great shape—for future generations to enjoy. It's a meaningful way to give back and create a lasting impact.

The Raccoon River Valley Trail is more than 90 miles of connection—between towns, people, and nature. Your donation helps keep it safe, beautiful, and accessible for all. It’s an investment in recreation, health, tourism, and community pride. Whether it’s $25 or $2,500, your support makes a difference.

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PURCHASE RRVT APPAREL

100% of proceeds support RRVT

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Help Us Restore & Improve the Trail

The Raccoon River Valley Trail needs your help to complete two major projects: restoring the Lighted Bridge in Adel and resurfacing the trail from Jefferson to Yale. Your support—big or small—makes a real impact.

We’re also planning a fundraising ride on the trail in August or September. Once the details are finalized, we’ll share the information.

Donate to the Adel Lighted Bridge Repair:

Click here to donate

Donate to the Jefferson–Yale Resurfacing Project:

To support the resurfacing project, please donate through the Raccoon River Valley Trail Association website using the link below. In the 'Write a Note' box, be sure to indicate that your donation is for the resurfacing project in Greene and Guthrie counties.

Click here to donate

Every dollar brings us one step closer to a safer, stronger, and more beautiful trail. Thank you for being part of the Raccoon River Valley Trail community.

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Additional Trail Improvements Underway

In addition to the Adel bridge repair and the Jefferson-to-Yale resurfacing projects, more trail development is in progress—and this project is fully funded.

Phase 4 of the South Loop: Adel to OrtonvilleThis section of trail construction is experiencing a slight delay. While completion was originally expected in September 2025, the timeline has shifted, and the new anticipated finish date is mid-October.

Dallas County Conservation is working closely with the contractor to explore all available options to keep the project on track and minimize disruptions. Your patience and continued support are greatly appreciated as this important trail connection moves toward completion.

In the meantime, this section of the trail is closed at both ends. No official detour is currently available.  Access to Adel from Redfield remains open.

Welcome, Dustin Lanz, New Board Member!

The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association is excited to welcome Dustin Lanz to our board. Dustin lives in Redfield with his wife, Cristin, and their two children.

Dustin is employed by the Des Moines Public Schools as a Project Manager in Construction Services. He has been an active leader in Redfield, serving as both mayor and a city council member. For the past 13 years, he has coordinated the Saturday morning American Legion breakfasts.

Biking is a big part of Dustin’s life, and the trail has played an important role in helping him lead a healthier lifestyle.

We are delighted to have someone with Dustin’s passion and experience join the RRVTA board and are confident he will play a key role in helping us maintain the Raccoon River Valley Trail as one of the finest trails in the country.

We are still looking for two more board members and especially seeking board members from Dallas Center and Jefferson—key communities along the trail—who can bring their unique local knowledge, energy, and ideas to our work. To learn more or express your interest in joining the RRVTA Board of Directors, please contact Pat Steele, Racoon River Valley Trail Association Chair at RRVTAchair@gmail.com