Pedestrian & Bicycle
How to Plan a Pedestrian Count
Counting walking activity with a clear observation plan.
By SWAT Alliance Editorial Team · Updated 25 August 2026
Insight at a glance
A short visual checklist for better study decisions.
Use the article as a starting point, then confirm the project-specific scope, method, review and output with the delivery team.
Question
What decision should this evidence help someone make?
Scope
Which locations, movements, classes and periods matter?
Review
How will completeness and definitions be checked?
Output
What format will make the result easiest to use?
Short answer
Pedestrian count methodology defines a crossing, screenline or area, directional rules and time intervals before people are observed.
Make the count line visible
A plan should show precisely where a person is counted. That prevents double counting people waiting or moving within a broad public space.
Separate modes deliberately
Pedestrians, cyclists and micromobility users should be treated according to written study rules, especially on shared paths.
Quality review
Check period coverage, direction logic, high-flow intervals and source obstructions. Report limitations rather than treating incomplete visibility as a true zero.
Frequently asked questions
Can groups be counted?
Yes, using a documented person-based rule rather than a group estimate.
Are waiting pedestrians included?
Only if the scope specifies a waiting or queue measure.
Go deeper
Pedestrian Count Methodology
A clear framework for observing walking movements at crossings, paths and screenlines.
View Methodology →Related services