ICount, a took kit for community based documentation of bicycle and pedestrian environments and behaviors

University of Idaho faculty in Movement Sciences and Civil Engineering partnered with the City of Moscow, Idaho to develop and implement “iCount”, a community based pedestrian and bicycle documentation project. Volunteer community members, University of Idaho students, youth, government officials, traffic engineers, public safety officers and public health practitioners collected counts at 29 different locations using criteria to address specific active travel questions and safety concerns. Strategic site selection also allowed for the count of all active travel modes to three schools. The counts included through travel, turning movements in intersections, helmet use and cyclists' sidewalk and street use. Travel modes included pedestrians, bicyclists, people using assisted travel devices, strollers, and skateboard users. Listening stations were strategically located to gather open ended feedback on environmental and safety concerns. Microsoft Excel data entry forms mimicking hard copy data forms were created to simplify data entry and analysis. Follow up community meetings discussed findings, challenges and plans for future counts. Results of “iCount” were incorporated into the City transportation plan and used to prioritize sidewalk, bike path and trail improvements. Unique “iCount” documentation tools and procedures, social marketing strategies and branding, volunteer training processes, and data collection, analysis and reporting methodologies were packaged in a user friendly tool kit and made available to communities documenting active travel. The session will introduce the “iCount” tool kit and offer guidance on tailoring “iCount” to meet community needs for useful bicycle and pedestrian data and increased active travel community engagement and support.