On many roadway projects, proper installation of traffic signals is a crucial step in ensuring that an intersection or road is safe for motorists. Depending on the scope of the project, plans can call for installation of new traffic signals or changes to existing signals.

Before a traffic signal can be installed, a traffic engineering study takes place to determine if there is a need for a new signal. In these studies, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) determines how the new signal, if needed, will be funded and who will install it. With many of the Interstate 4 (I-4) improvement projects, changes to signalization components are necessary during road work.

A project’s signalization plans lay out the location and types of required signals for the construction team. The plan can include details on how many signals are needed to accommodate each lane of the road and how the green, yellow, and red lights are sequenced.

Crews install mast arms — long horizontal poles that hold the signal lights — or wired supports, which suspend signals above the roadway. They also install underground cables connecting the signals to power. The process starts with crews installing drilled shafts — concrete cylinders that hold the signals’ support structures in place — in identified areas. Crews must wait 28 days for the concrete to “cure,” enabling it to achieve its full strength and durability over time. While waiting for the concrete drilled shafts to cure, crews install signal cables. Once the concrete is ready, crews install the mast arms or wired supports. The poles are installed first so crews can attach the mast arms or wired supports as specified in their plans.

When all mast arms are installed, the crews hook up wires to power the signals and connect intelligent transportation system (ITS) devices mounted on the mast arm. ITS devices help FDOT manage traffic flow.

County and FDOT officials test and activate advanced warning signs (flashing amber lights) to alert the traveling public to the presence of new signals in the area. In Central Florida, new signals must be in testing mode for a period of seven to 14 days. County engineers and FDOT match or adjust the timing of other nearby signals as needed. Once this testing is complete, the signals are ready for use.

Following these steps ensures construction teams meet FDOT standards of safety and connectivity across Central Florida’s roadways when completing traffic signal work. This work allows the signals to function correctly and ensures motorists can travel safely on Florida’s roadways.