News

Gravel on the bike path might seem like a small issue – but it’s actually one of the most common causes of bicycle crashes in Sweden. Around 11,000 bicycle accidents happen every year, and one in five are caused by loose gravel left behind after winter road treatment. The problem is well known – but the solution is tricky: when is the right time to clean, where should you start, and how do you even know?

That’s where STIG comes in – Smart Technology for Innovative Data Collection and Analysis for Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths. This new project is developing and testing an AI-based tool to help municipalities systematically assess the condition of walking and cycling infrastructure and identify where maintenance is needed.

The goal? To make it easier, smarter and more cost-efficient for cities to maintain the paths that support safe and sustainable mobility.

How it works
The project unfolds in several stages – with municipalities directly involved from the start. First, real-world needs and infrastructure parameters are identified together with participating cities (Helsingborg, Stockholm, Umeå and Järfälla). Then, AI algorithms are developed to analyse image data and detect issues like cracks, potholes or gravel buildup on pedestrian and bike paths.

Field data will be collected using different vehicles and sensors – from maintenance trucks to staff bikes – and analysed against official standards. This will result in a prototype system (at TRL 5–6) that municipalities can use for regular condition monitoring and proactive maintenance planning.

Ultimately, STIG will deliver a tested method that helps local authorities spot issues faster, prioritise better and create safer, more accessible environments for everyone walking and cycling.

Why it matters
With the right tools, we can prevent accidents before they happen. STIG not only helps improve safety, but also supports the shift to active travel – benefiting public health, climate goals and urban mobility. Safe, well-maintained walking and cycling paths are essential to make sustainable transport attractive. And for that, we need data, not just gut feeling.

With the help of AI, STIG makes it possible to turn smart data into smart action.

Project details:

• Full title: STIG – Smart Technology for Innovative Data Collection and Analysis for Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths
• Project duration: January 2025 – June 2026
• Funding: Drive Sweden (Vinnova, Formas, Swedish Energy Agency)
• Budget: SEK 4.4 million
• Coordinator: VTI (Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute)
• Partners: VTI, Univrses AB, City of Helsingborg, City of Stockholm, Municipality of Umeå, Municipality of Järfälla
• Contact: Daniel Rudmark, VTI – daniel.rudmark@vti.se