The case for measuring what we build
Active transport projects are often introduced with clear community benefits in mind, reducing congestion, improving accessibility, encouraging healthier lifestyles and creating more connected neighbourhoods.
But when councils apply for funding, evaluate projects or make decisions about long-term investment, they need more than assumptions. They need reliable data showing how infrastructure is being used and the impact it is having.
Accurate bike monitoring helps councils answer important questions:
- Are people using the infrastructure?
- Has usage increased over time?
- Are investments delivering the outcomes communities need?
- Where should future improvements be prioritised?
Without this information, it can be difficult to build the strongest possible case for continued investment.
How Northern Beaches Council turned bike data into action
A great example of this approach is Northern Beaches Council’s pop-up bike lane on The Strand, Dee Why.
When the council introduced the temporary bike lane, they needed evidence to understand whether it was meeting community needs and whether it should become a permanent part of the transport network.
Using our bike monitoring technology, the council was able to capture reliable usage data and demonstrate the value of the infrastructure.
That evidence helped support the decision to make the bike lane permanent.
The success of the project also helped build momentum for further investment. Northern Beaches Council upgraded to a permanent bike monitoring system and secured additional funding through the Get NSW Active program.
The future of active transport is data-driven
The benefits of walking and cycling are well understood. Every journey made outside of a private vehicle can contribute to healthier communities, reduced congestion and more liveable neighbourhoods.
But if we want to see greater investment in active transport, we need to be able to demonstrate its value. The future of movement will not just be shaped by what we build, but by how well we understand the people using it.
Ready to see what accurate traffic data can do for your projects? Get in touch with the MetroCount team today.
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