New bicycle counting points for better infrastructure

At those locations, the number of cyclists passing in which direction is counted. This helps the Flemish government in making decisions about where to invest in cycling infrastructure.

Also motivating

“This year, new bicycle counters will be installed along Flemish regional roads in more than 60 places, on top of the 15 places where counting is already taking place today. Most locations have two counters, one in each direction,” says the spokeswoman.

“At every counting pole, induction loops in the road register how much and when cyclists pass. Ground loops are vandalism-proof, relatively cheap and they count very accurately. They work on batteries – often powered by solar energy – and they transmit data via 4G.

Mapping and promoting cycling Knowing what the cycling intensity is at a certain location and how it is evolving helps in decisions about where to invest in more comfortable and safe cycling paths. The effect of new investments on bicycle traffic can also be measured.

Bicycle counting posts also have a motivating function. The ticking counter on the display ‘celebrate’ every new cyclist who passes by and signals to the environment that cycling is a conscious and smart mobility choice”.

(read more below the map)

“Valuable information”

“We are investing heavily in our cycling infrastructure to ensure more and better cycle paths and bicycle highways,” says Flemish Minister for Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters.

“These counting posts – worth an investment of 1 million euros – motivate cyclists and provide us with valuable information about cycling flows and cycling intensity, resulting in smarter policy choices.”

New counting points for the end of the year active

“At the moment, the first counters are being installed in Limburg, followed by counting points in West Flanders, Antwerp and Flemish Brabant. East Flanders is the last province to turn. All bicycle counting points will be active before the end of this year.

AWV is not the only organization that counts cyclists. Cities and municipalities also count, as do the provinces. The proximity of busy bicycle routes such as bicycle highways and junctions such as bridges over water or over railways determine the selection of future locations. All cycling data is open for use by third parties.”

Click here for the overview map of the new bicycle counting points: