Bike & Ped Counting

A "count" represents the number of pedestrians and/or bicyclists that pass by a location. The data are typically reported as hourly or daily averages.  To establish trends, most sites are counted on a recurring (ie. annual) basis.  The time of year and weather conditions are important context considerations when interpreting the data. 

NRPC collects these data on behalf of community planners, conservation commission members, engineers, and other local organizations.  The data can illustrate where improvement or expansion of sidewalks, paths or other infrastructure may be needed, and may be used to help secure funding or justify local investments.

NRPC typically uses mobile "Eco-Counters" which are moved approximately every two to four weeks to count traffic at new and recurring sites across the NRPC region.  The counters can be equipped with infrared sensors that count all passing movement, and/or tube sensors that are configured specifically for bicycle traffic.  In certain limited settings, e.g. some road intersections, NRPC can deploy camera-based counters to measure pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

NRPC counts bicycle and pedestrian traffic in a variety of locations, including: 

• Sidewalks
• School zones
• Multi-use pathways
• Hiking trails
• Rail trails
• Snowmobile trails
• Bike paths
• Pedestrian bridges
• Crosswalks*
• Road intersections*

*if conditions permit the deployment of camera-based equipment.