Surf Coast residents can participate in a cycling trial to help provide more real-time data for future transport regional planning decisions.
Community members can help Surf Coast Shire Council better understand cyclists’ experiences on roads by helping collect anonymous data for the cycling trial.
Councillor Joel Grist said riders from across the region can apply to receive a smart light to attach to their bike to collect anonymous data while riders travel along their normal routes.
“Cyclists know the local network better than anyone because they use it every day,” he said.
“This trial lets riders share information about their journeys so council can better understand where people are riding and what challenges they face on the road.”
People who travel to and from school by bike, including students, their families and teachers, and cyclists from Lorne, Aireys Inlet, Winchelsea, Moriac and Deans Marsh are encouraged to participate in the trial.
The data gathered will be used with other information, including crash statistics and road audit reports, in shaping safer cycling connections and helping council work towards its aim of increasing active transport in the shire.
Many cyclist-related projects coming up on the road network will consider data collected through the trial, including safety improvements along The Esplanade at Taylor Park and a cyclist-friendly upgrade to the Inshore Drive roundabout.
Cyclists interested in participating in the program can visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/SmartBikeLightTrial to review details, including how data is collected, and register their interest.