Black cables seen stretched across roads are portable traffic counters used by transportation authorities to collect data on road usage and traffic patterns. When a vehicle’s tires touch the tube, it triggers a burst of air, recording an electrical signal that indicates traffic volume and patterns. Paired tubes can determine vehicle class, speed, and direction.

These tubes offer insights for road signage, speed limits, and transportation budgets. Placed strategically in areas with minimal interference, they provide quick glimpses into traffic dynamics through temporary setups or continuous monitoring with permanent installations.

Beyond vehicle counting, the tubes address concerns like speeding or shortcutting raised by residents. The data collected informs transportation budgets and solutions. Despite their unassuming appearance, these black cables play a vital role in shaping the transportation landscape by silently observing and analyzing road usage.

Next time you see them, remember they’re not just cables; they’re essential tools helping authorities make informed decisions to improve traffic flow and safety on our roads.