AMES, Iowa – May 21, 2012 – The Iowa Department of Transportation is now distributing the 2012 Iowa Transportation Map for Bicyclists, a popular publication updated to show new 4-foot, paved shoulders and trails completed since the 2009 version was published. The map is now available for free at locations throughout the state and on the Internet.

As in past versions, the map highlights bike-friendly routes by identifying bike trails and traffic levels for paved roads. Detailed maps for Iowa’s 16 largest cities are shown, depicting bike trails, highways, major streets and city boundaries. 

A person riding a bicycle on a public road has all the rights and responsibilities applicable to the driver of a motor vehicle, including knowing and obeying all traffic laws and rules of the road. To assist bicyclists understand their rights and responsibilities, a section of the map is dedicated to highlighting rules of the road for bicyclists. Bicyclists are urged to always wear helmets, use lights at night and watch out for road hazards, including gravel, sand and debris. 

The 2012 Iowa Transportation Map for Bicyclists is available online at the Iowa DOT’s website iowadot.gov/iowabikes, or by calling 515-725-3084 or 888-472-6035.