These unassuming black cables are actually portable traffic counters placed by transportation authorities for research. Used mainly by local agencies, these tubes gather vital data on road usage and traffic patterns. With over 12,000 traffic counters across the state, they play a crucial role in planning and developing our road networks.

The technology behind these rubber tubes is simple yet effective. Each time a vehicle’s tires contact the tube, it triggers a burst of air, creating an electrical signal that a counter records. This pneumatic mechanism tracks the volume of vehicles over time, helping agencies identify peak traffic periods. When deployed in pairs, the tubes can determine vehicle class, speed, and direction.

The data collected is essential for making informed decisions about road signage, speed limits, and transportation budgets. These tubes also help address concerns like speeding or shortcutting in neighborhoods, validating claims with solid data.

Next time you see these black cables on the road, remember they’re more than just traffic counters—they are vital tools that shape our transportation landscape and ensure safe, efficient road systems.