HISTORY:
In May 2015, the City of Miami Beach Transportation Department requested that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) conduct a warrant analysis for the installation of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Collins Avenue and 79th Street. A new traffic signal at this intersection would improve the safety of pedestrians crossing Collins Avenue and enhance pedestrian access to the beach through the implementation of a signalized and protected pedestrian crosswalk.
In September 2015, FDOT completed the analysis and informed City staff that the traffic study found that a signal is warranted at this location. Further, FDOT advised that funding for the installation of the traffic signal would be programmed in the FDOT Five-Year Work Program within 18-24 months.
On June 28, 2017, FDOT staff presented the proposed signalization project to the FDOT District Six Scoping Committee for funding allocation. The City’s Transportation Department staff attended the meeting to advocate for the project and for funding to be prioritized in the FDOT Work Program in order to expedite the installation of the recommended traffic signal. FDOT stated that it has not been determined yet if additional right-of-way may be needed and if there would be any impacts to park property. One option could be to install the signals on bulbouts, which could impact drainage.
FDOT estimates that the cost to design and construct the signalization improvements would be approximately $350,000, not including utility relocation if necessary. The FDOT Scoping Committee reached consensus to recommend that a new signalization project for this intersection be programmed in its Five-Year Work Program, with Design in FY 2018/19, Right-of-Way in FY 2020/21, and Construction in FY 2022/23.