The City of Santa Clarita utilizes mobile trail counters to analyze bicycle and pedestrian activity. These units can be mounted to vertical surfaces such as sign posts, streetlight standards (poles), etc. The counter uses infrared technology to detect motion as well as direction of travel.
The counter works best when placed at waist height, so it will usually be visible to the public. Some common questions that City staff receives include:
- Did the City install this device? – Yes, the device is owned by the City and is deployed by City staff.
- What is the device collecting? – The device collects hourly bicycle and pedestrian activity along a path or trail.
- Does this device record audio, video, or any other form of personal information? – No, the device is only used to collect trail use data.
- Is this device being used for any form of enforcement? – No, it does not collect personal data or issue citations.
- How long will the device be at a certain location? – The device is usually at any given location for one to two weeks.
- Why is the City collecting data? – The trail counter will assist the City of Santa Clarita in collecting data pertaining to trail use. The unit will collect bicycle and pedestrian activity at a location both before and after a project to analyze effectiveness.
For further information regarding the trail counter, please contact the City of Santa Clarita Public Works Department at (661) 255-4942.
