Revisiting COVID-19’s Impact on Cycling: An Examination of Bicycle Count Data in Montréal

Abstract

During the earlier stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies used bicycle count data to understand the pandemic’s impact on urban cycling. However, given the context and timeliness of such studies, correcting for periods of missing data and ensuring data accuracy were not always possible. In this paper, we examine the quality of bicycle count data, using Montreal as a case study, and propose methodological improvements. By employing a missing value imputation technique and excluding sensors potentially affected by exogenous factors, we hope to provide cities with a more precise assessment of cycling trends.