Green Lights for Emergencies: Manatee County Updates EMS Signal Priority System to Save Time and Lives

A pilot program aimed at improving emergency response times for citizens in need by providing green lights for emergency vehicles at intersections has been updated by the Manatee Board of County Commissioners. The system is expected to save valuable time, with an estimated 11 seconds saved at each intersection.

Manatee County Public Safety Deputy Director James Crutchfield emphasized the importance of quick response times in medical emergencies, stating that every second counts. The EMS Signal Priority/Pre-emption Pilot Project will focus on intersections in the US 41/US 301 and SR 64 corridors, with 24 intersections identified as part of the initiative.

Funding from Generational Impact has allowed for the installation of field devices at traffic signal locations and activation devices in 10 EMS vehicles. Collaborating with the Florida Department of Transportation, Cities of Bradenton and Palmetto, and County EMS and Fleet Divisions, the project is expected to be fully operational within the next week after testing and fine-tuning in May.

Manatee County Commission Chair Mike Rahn praised the initiative, recognizing the benefits it will bring to EMS services. Manatee County Public Works Director Chad Butzow commended the effort required to implement the system, expressing confidence in its success once fully operational.

Moving forward, county staff will continue to monitor and adjust the system based on feedback from EMS teams and other involved agencies. This innovative approach to improving emergency response times demonstrates a commitment to public safety in Manatee County.