Since 1984 the CMRPC has been collecting traffic count data across the 40 cities and towns in the planning region. As the needs of the region have shifted additional modes have been included to support planning efforts. The primary focus for data collection are the regions federal-aid eligible roadways but also includes locations requested by member communities and to support regionally significant projects. Traffic volume data along with pavement surveys and Turning Movement Counts (TMCs) are used to both identify and prioritize roadway projects that can be funded through Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The CMRPC Traffic and Travel Data Viewer can be used to view current and historical count data. For data on roadways not counted by the CMRPC check MassDOT’s Transportation Data Management System.
Types of Counts and Data Included
Turning Movement Counts
TMCs are used to collect the turning movements of vehicles at selected intersections from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The CMRPC then analyzes the data to determine the average delay experienced at the intersection. The results of this effort can be found in the Congestion Management Process Progress Report.
Traffic Volume Counts
ATRs are used to collect traffic volume, vehicle classification, speed, and gap information. These counts are conducted for a minimum of 24-hours.
Park-and-Ride/ MBTA Lot Counts
On a monthly basis CMRPC staff observe the number of Vehicles parked at MBTA station parking lots and MassDOT park-and-ride facilities at key location in the region.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Counts
Bicycle and a pedestrian count are conducted at key locations around the region and are also conducted as part of TMC’s and some traffic volume counts.
