Manatee County EMS Traffic Signal Pilot Program Shows Promising Results
A Manatee County pilot program designed to speed up emergency response times using advanced traffic signal technology has shown substantial early success. The program equips ambulances with devices that can preempt traffic lights, turning them green before the vehicle arrives at intersections.
Implemented at 24 intersections, the technology allows ambulances to navigate roadways more efficiently by clearing a path of green lights ahead of them. This “flushing” effect can impact multiple signals sequentially, providing a smoother, faster route during emergencies.
Current data indicates the system shaves about 11 seconds off response times per intersection. With ambulance response times averaging eight minutes in the county, the time saved through this technology could prove crucial during life-threatening situations such as cardiac arrests or strokes.
Manatee County EMS responds to approximately 60,000 medical-related calls each year. As the county population grows, so does the demand for innovative solutions like this one to improve emergency care.
The Deputy Director of Public Safety has expressed interest in expanding the program to 93 intersections, aiming to equip all county traffic signals with the system. The proposed expansion will require approval from the Manatee County Commission, although a formal vote has not yet been scheduled.