New Capital Crescent Digital Display Counts Bicyclists and Pedestrians

A real-time digital trail display that counts the number of bicyclists and pedestrians who use the Capital Crescent Trail in Bethesda was installed April 9 next to Ourisman Honda in Bethesda.

The counter display is approximately eight feet tall and two feet wide. It is double-sided and displays the number of pedestrians on one side and the number of bicyclists on the other side. It is backlit so counts will be visible at night.

“Real-time data plays an important role in advocating for the care, management, and maintenance of our trails,” said Casey Anderson, chair of the Montgomery Planning Board. “I think people will appreciate seeing just how many people use and love this trail, reminding them of the wonderful parks and trails in the county.”

The trail is popular and has an estimated 2,500 users every day. Approximately 5.5 miles of the 11-mile trail runs through Montgomery County, with the remainder extending to Georgetown in the District of Columbia.

Funding for the trail counter display and its installation was provided by the Montgomery Parks Foundation.

“The Montgomery Parks Foundation mission is to ensure Montgomery Parks can continue to provide exceptional parks and trails systems through additional philanthropic support,” said Katie Rictor, executive director of the foundation.  “We are thrilled we could provide the necessary funds to make this important addition a reality.”

The eco-display is made possible by funding from the Montgomery Parks Foundation.

The digital counter gives daily, annual numbers of pedestrians and cyclists. The info helps us manage and operate the trail, and aids in long-range plans for bike, pedestrian improvements. pic.twitter.com/lBERXFKHUz

— Montgomery Parks (@MontgomeryParks) April 9, 2021

Capital Crescent Trail is one of the busiest trails in the nation. How busy?

Well, you can see for yourself with the NEW eco-display, located along the trail near Bethesda Avenue. pic.twitter.com/N5QakQGHZj

— Montgomery Parks (@MontgomeryParks) April 9, 2021

About Suzanne Pollak

Suzanne is a freelance reporter with Montgomery Community Media. She has over 35 years professional experience writing for newspapers, magazines, non-profit newsletters and the web.

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