Putnam County officials are advocating for a new traffic signal at a busy intersection following concerns raised by local residents about safety. During the Putnam County Safety Task Force meeting on July 24, 2025, members discussed the need for improved traffic management at the intersection near Dollar General, where recent accidents have highlighted the risks for drivers.

The discussion centered around the results of a traffic study conducted two years ago, which indicated that traffic levels were insufficient to warrant a traffic signal. However, officials noted that the study was based on data collected a decade prior and expressed the need for an updated assessment, especially with the impending opening of a nearby interstate that is expected to increase traffic flow.

County representatives emphasized the importance of pushing for a new traffic study to reflect current conditions and future projections. They acknowledged that while the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) typically requires specific traffic counts to justify the installation of signals, the upcoming interstate could change the dynamics significantly.

In addition to the traffic signal discussion, the meeting also addressed a major $8 million road improvement project on Palmetto Bluff Road, which includes drainage enhancements and resurfacing. This project is expected to commence soon, with the drainage work taking priority.

Officials are committed to continuing discussions with DOT to ensure that safety measures are prioritized in the area. They plan to leverage the anticipated increase in traffic from the new interstate to advocate for necessary infrastructure improvements. The task force aims to keep the community informed through updates on their website and social media channels, ensuring residents are aware of ongoing efforts to enhance local safety.