Deadly EF-4 tornado won't stop Greenfield from hosting RAGBRAIGREENFIELD, Iowa (Iowa Media Wire) — After a tornado caused extensive damage to the town of Greenfield, organizers have announced that the community is “rising after the storm.”
According to a release, on May 21, an EF-4 tornado tore through Greenfield causing damage to nearly 200 homes, the hospital, the fire department, and various buildings. Even more devastating, four people were killed during the storm.
As the community continues to mourn and rebuild, organizers say that Greenfield remains strong and will still host riders in July.
“After careful consideration and many conversations with local officials and partners, we have decided to welcome the RAGBRAI community on this year’s ride,” RAGBRAI Greenfield committee co-chair Gina School said, “We have changed our theme for the day to Greenfield Strong, Rising After the Storm.”
Organizers announced in April that Greenfield would be hosting riders on day three of the ride and town officials had been working diligently on their plans to host nearly 20,000 from all 50 states and 17 countries, according to the release.
“I have seen first-hand what RAGBRAI nation can do to show appreciation for the communities that show up for them. With Greenfield’s decision to host our team is committed to providing any support they will need to be successful that day,” RAGBRAI ride director Matt Phippen said, “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.”
The release states that RAGBRAI’s team conducted an annual route inspection ride on June 4 and sought input from the community about how RAGBRAI could support Greenfield’s desire to host riders.
“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 business, and hear the stories of survival and perseverance from our citizens.”
Organizers say that the details of Greenfield’s plans will be released soon along with bicycle and vehicle routes through the community.