Pedestrian Count Methodology

Definition and purpose

A pedestrian count records people crossing or passing a defined observation line, area or facility during agreed periods. Direction, crossing type and movement rules must be clear before collection.

Use it for active-travel, public-realm, safety, access and station studies.

Required inputs

• Plan showing count line or crossing
• Directions and movement rules
• Periods and reporting intervals
• Treatment of groups, scooters or wheeled devices
• Output and class requirements

Video and camera considerations

Frame the full crossing, path or screenline. At busy locations, choose a view that reduces overlap and shows direction of travel.

Observation, classification and intervals

Observation process

Record each person when they cross the stated count line or complete the agreed movement; avoid double-counting people waiting within the area.

Movement and classification process

Keep pedestrian data separate from bicycle and micromobility categories unless the study rules explicitly combine them.

Time intervals

Apply the same interval boundaries across all count points so site comparisons are valid.

Validation and QA/QC

Check direction totals, period coverage and duplicate-risk points. Review high-flow intervals and any source obstruction.

Common problems and limitations

• Crowds can hide individuals.
• Ambiguous screenlines cause double counting.
• Shared paths need a rule for mixed modes.

It records observed use during the defined time, not all potential demand or safety performance.

Typical deliverables

• Directional pedestrian interval tables
• Crossing or screenline description
• Class/mode splits where scoped
• QA and exception notes

Illustrative output format

Illustrative sample data only — not a project result or benchmark.

Frequently asked questions