Data Analysis Improves Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts for Urban Planning

The City of Carlsbad's Traffic and Mobility Commission meeting on July 7, 2025, spotlighted the need for improved data collection methods to better understand pedestrian and bicycle traffic patterns. A key discussion point was the accuracy of current counting technologies, particularly regarding how they account for multiple riders on bicycles and pedestrians with strollers.

Commission members expressed concerns that existing video counts only register one bike per count, failing to capture instances where multiple individuals ride together, such as on tandem bikes or e-bikes. This oversight could lead to underreporting of actual traffic volumes. One member emphasized the importance of capturing a more comprehensive view of pedestrian counts, suggesting that children in strollers should also be included in the data.

The conversation also touched on the necessity of extending data collection to 24 hours a day to gain a clearer picture of traffic patterns, especially during nighttime when many cyclists ride with lights. The commission recognized that gaps in data collection could lead to misinformed decisions, particularly in safety assessments where crash data showed incidents occurring even when counts were not being recorded.

Additionally, the commission discussed how this data informs decision-making processes, including project planning and grant applications. Accurate traffic data is crucial for demonstrating project benefits and supporting initiatives like the Climate Action Plan, which relies on mode share metrics.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to refining data collection methods to enhance the understanding of traffic dynamics in Carlsbad, ultimately aiming to improve safety and mobility for all users.