May 17 will be a busy day in Ankeny with the groundbreaking of the Ankeny Market & Pavilion, the season opening of the Ankeny Farmers Market and the second annual Mayor’s Bike Ride.

Ankeny leaders will break ground on the $2 million market and pavilion at 8:30 a.m. at Southwest Third and Maple streets. The project will include two large, open air shelters, which will house the Ankeny Uptown Farmers Market and a variety of community activities; a restroom building; 108 parking spaces; and other open areas. It will serve as the primary trailhead of the High Trestle Trail, which is a 26-mile trail between Ankeny and Woodward.

Immediately following the groundbreaking, the first Ankeny Farmers Market of the year will get underway and the Mayor’s Bike Ride, which begins at 210 N.W. Ash Drive, will depart at 9 a.m.

Two routes have been chosen for the bike ride. Bicyclists can choose between a 15-mile route to the Oasis located on the High Trestle Trail or a family friendly 3.5-mile route that also will utilize the High Trestle Trail and local trail connections.

Registration is not required and participation is free.

The Ankeny Fire Department will be on hand to promote Bicycle Safety Month by checking bicycle equipment, fitting helmets and educating children about bicycle safety.

For more information about the day’s activities, contact Parks & Recreation Director Nick Lenox at nlenox@ankenyiowa.gov or 515-963-3576. For information and donation opportunities specific to the market and pavilion project, visit www.ankenyamp.com.