It is time once again to perform local bicycle and foot traffic counts as part of the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Demonstration Project. Sarah Wallace of the Portage County Planning and Zoning Dept. is looking for volunteers to help with this effort.

The NBPD website states that these counts are important because “Without accurate and consistent [bicycle and pedestrian] demand and usage figures, it is difficult to measure the positive benefits of investments in these modes…”

Having this count data helps local governments make good and fair decisions on how to spend limited dollars on multi-modal transportation infrastructure for the overall benefit of their citizens.

Wallace has scheduled the next set of counts for Tuesday Sept. 11 from 3:30 to 5:30 PM. The locations for counting are scattered around Portage County – most, but not all, within Stevens Point. The mechanics of recording accurate counts are easy enough for an individual to perform alone, but Wallace invites you to signup with a friend if you prefer. No previous experience in doing such counts is required.

To volunteer, contact Sarah Wallace at 715-346-1334 or e-mail her at wallaces(at)co(d0t)portage(dot)wi(d0t)us.

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