You may have encountered black cables stretched across the road, but why are they there?

Why Is This Data Important?

The information collected helps local and state transportation agencies:

• Plan road improvements
• Adjust speed limits if necessary
• Design safer intersections
• Determine where traffic lights or stop signs are needed
• Monitor traffic flow in growing communities

Without this data, cities and counties would be making road decisions without understanding how drivers actually use the roadway.

Are They Permanent?

No — these tubes are typically temporary. They’re often installed for a few days to a couple of weeks to gather enough data for analysis. Once the information is collected, they’re removed.