We are getting closer to when the Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) makes its overnight stop in Jefferson on July 23rd.

As over 20,000-bicyclists are expected to come into Jefferson, Executive Co-Chair Matt Wetrich says the main point of interest is going to be the downtown square, or as he calls it “Grand Central Station” where all of the food vendors, musical entertainment and the beverage garden will be located. Plus, all of the streets around the square, as well as the street west of the square will be closed on Monday.

“If you have business that has to take place on Monday at the courthouse or around the square, to seek out kind of a north and east street to park on, or somewhere close by in that direction. And it’s not going to be completely restricted to get to downtown.”

Other streets where parking will not be allowed the entire day on Monday includes the east side of Chestnut Street and the south side of Lincoln Way. Executive Co-Chair Toni Wetrich says even though the entire square will be designated for alcohol to be served, as a safeguard, only those who have purchased wristbands will be allowed to purchase alcohol that day.

“All of the RAGBRAI (overnight stop) towns are doing that kind of setup, without having a fenced in beer garden. It’s just a safer, more relaxed (and) comfortable atmosphere. The actual square will not be completely locked down. It’s a free event. People can come and go as they like. So we want it to be an open and welcoming atmosphere.”

To hear more from Matt and Toni Wetrich, listen to today’s Community State Bank in Paton Let’s Talk Greene County program.