Call for Volunteers: Count Bicyclists and Pedestrians on Ellsworth

Collect data in October to help make the case for Shadyside bike and pedestrian infrastructure

As you may be aware, the City’s Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI) is looking to make a connection for bicyclists through the Shadyside neighborhood to connect both the Shadyside residents and those who pass through the area to the greater bike network that is being built. 

About 2 years ago, DOMI began the process of starting the public process to identify a way for bicyclists to get through the area. The result was a contentious one that ultimately put the project on hold. However, in light of a recent crash between a bicyclist and a driver, it has brought up the urgency of getting a connection made in the area. The issue of safety and improving conditions for bicyclists can no longer be ignored.

We need your help – Sign up today

In order to paint a complete picture we need real time data. We need you to help us conduct bike and pedestrian counts on Ellsworth during the month of October. 

See the schedule of time/location spots we need filled

Email anna@bikepgh.org with your date(s), time(s) and location(s) preference.

How it works

Where to count

  • Location 1: Ellsworth at Aiken – east side of street
  • Location 2: Ellsworth at Morewood – east side of street
  • Location 3: Ellsworth at Negley – western side of street

When to count: Any day in October – pick a shift

  • Any weekday (Mon-Fri): 
    • Morning Commute: 8am-10am
    • Afternoon Commute: 4pm-6pm
  • Weekend (Sat-Sun):
    • 10am-12pm

What to Bring:

  • Know your location
  • Watch, timer, or phone so you can record 15-minute intervals
  • Count forms ( 1 count form per 15min intervals – 4 forms per hour)
  • Pen or pencil and spares
  • Mask, hand sanitizer, hat, sunscreen, umbrella, folding chair, snacks, water, whatever you need to make yourself comfortable

How to Collect the Data

This is what a count sheet looks like. You can print this image – or contact Anna at anna@bikepgh.org to arrange a time to drop off printed pages.

Get ready:

  1. Arrive at your count location 15 minutes before the count period so you can get situated, fill out the top of the forms, etc.
  2. Place yourself on one side of the street or the other at your screenline. Use safety and comfort as your primary guide. Consider the location that provides you with the best view of pedestrians and bicyclists traveling in both directions.
  3. Begin by filling out the top of the count form with the date, location and time that you start.
    1. Note:
      1. Each count interval lasts for 15minutes
      2. Use one count form for each 15-minute interval
      3. We prefer that you start your count promptly at the top of the hour or half hour.
  1. Then, start your timer for 15 minutes and tally the bicyclists and pedestrians that cross in front of you, this is called the screenline. 

How to Count Bicyclists:

For bicyclists, please also note on the right side of the count form if:

  • They are riding the wrong way on the street
  • They are riding on the sidewalk
  • Count a person on a personal motorized scooter as a bike

Note: You can mark these things in the “other” area on the right hand side of the page. Also, Count a person on a personal motorized scooter as a bike and mark it in the other area as a scooter. That way we’ll then have a tally on the right for the number of scooters.

How to Count Pedestrians:

Additional notes:

  • Always count the number of people.
    • Two people riding a tandem bike? Count as 2 bicyclists 
    • A parent riding with a child in a seat or trailer? Count as 2 bicyclists
    • A person pushing another person in a wheeled device? Count them as 2 pedestrians.
    • A person walking while carrying a child? Count them as 2 pedestrians.
  • Anyone traveling on something other than a bicycle is a pedestrian.
    • If a person is using a wheelchair or skateboard, mark them as a pedestrian and also mark the correct box.
    • If someone is waking their bike, count them as a pedestrian.
  • Be Accurate
    • Remember that the goal is to be accurate, not to turn in high numbers
    • Your numbers may be low at your location, That’s okay.
  • Questions? 

How to Return Your Forms:

  • Take a picture of your forms and email them to anna@bikepgh.org
  • Anna can also pick them up once the count is over. Email Anna to arrange a contactless pickup time/location.

Thanks for all your help!

Leave a Reply