On Tuesday September 10, volunteers will be counting bicycle and foot traffic in locations all over the Stevens Point urban area plus a few additional spots in more rural areas of Portage County. These counts take place a few times each year and are part of the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project.

One of the obstacles in identifying funding for improved bicycle and foot traffic infrastructure is the lack of quality data on how many people bike and walk for transportation. By participating in this national effort, local elected leaders and their staff can provide data to justify expenditures on much-needed improvements to this infrastructure.

This round of counts will take place from 3:30-5:30 PM on September 10. The local effort is coordinated by Sarah Wallace of the Portage County Planning and Zoning Dept.

For those new to traffic counting, it is easy to learn what to do. You can either meet in advance with Wallace for a brief training session, or you can be paired up with an experienced volunteer and learn during the counting session.

This is an easy way for Poky Pedalers to participate in an effort to improve the bicycling environment in Stevens Point and other areas of Portage County. While this might not generate the same level of fun as riding your bike, there is certainly amusement and entertainment in watching other people having fun riding their bikes.

To volunteer, contact Wallace at 715-346-1334 or by email at wallaces(at)co(dot)portage(dot)wi(dot)us.

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