Traffic counts
- Details
What is a traffic count?
A traffic count is more than just a simple tally. Traffic counts are in-depth studies recording the volume, speed, and class of vehicles (motorcycle, car, truck, bus, semi, etc) over a duration of time. For example, a traffic count may determine that both passenger cars and tractor trailers are utilizing a particular road for transit, with peak travel between 3 and 5pm on weekdays.
The end result is a traffic report which includes the raw data and a summary sheet showing the highlighted results.
Who conducts traffic counts?
The WRC conducts traffic counts, at a town’s request. A traffic count request form is required before a count can be conducted.
Link to traffic count request form here.
The WRC has been collecting volume, speed and class data, dating back almost a decade. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more.
The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) maintains automated traffic recorders (ATRs) and performs seasonal counts at a variety of locations throughout the Windham Region. For a complete listing of locations and latest as well as historic traffic count numbers, please visit - http://vtransplanning.vermont.gov/research/traffic/publications
When are traffic counts performed?
This data is typically collected for one week in duration and is collected May-November, weather permitting.
Where are traffic counts conducted?
Traffic counts are conducted by WRC on town highways in the Windham Region, including all towns in Windham County and Readsboro, Searsburg, Weston and Winhall.
Why are traffic counts important?
Traffic data provides planners and town officials with the information needed to make effective planning decisions. Traffic data can be useful in evaluating public transportation systems, making land use and development decisions, addressing traffic growth in a particular region, assessing effectiveness of prior transportation investments, or simply provide historic and ongoing information about road networks. Traffic count data may also be pivotal in determining transportation priorities.
