Task force hears demonstration of UrbanSDK traffic tool and engineering updates on sidewalks and Route 28 design

The Road Safety Task Force received an update on a traffic‑monitoring product and multiple engineering project updates.

Chris described a recent demonstration of UrbanSDK, a commercial service that uses anonymized device location data to calculate live 85th‑percentile speeds and other traffic metrics. The demonstration showed one location’s 85th‑percentile speed as 31 mph in a 25‑mph zone. Chris cautioned that the service is subscription‑based and costly — approximately $20,000–$30,000 per year — and said staff would pursue grant or capital funding before committing to purchase.

Tom Andre reported several construction and design items: sidewalk work progressing on sections leading to Route 134 and Old Wharf (binder down; paving expected in coming weeks), granite curb installed, and the MassDOT Route 28 West Dennis design public hearing tentatively scheduled for Nov. 13. He said MassDOT is adding crosswalks and push‑button flashing beacons on Route 6A and that the town is pursuing pedestrian improvements through the Cape Cod Commission’s visioning work. He also described capital tradeoffs: rising construction costs and a long backlog of sidewalk needs amid a limited capital budget.

Members discussed using UrbanSDK to target enforcement where data justify patrols, the need for a multi‑year funding plan if the town adopted the service, and the benefit of public participation at upcoming capital and design hearings. Tom invited committee members to attend the Oct. 29 capital hearing to advocate for road and sidewalk items.