FDOT Activates New Signals on SR 46 in Sanford to Reduce Crashes

Florida Department of Transportation crews installed new traffic signals along West First Street (State Road 46) in Sanford to address safety and accessibility concerns at three intersections. The new signals are located at Mangoustine Avenue, Persimmon Avenue, and Aero Lane/Harvest Time Drive.

FDOT placed the Mangoustine Avenue and Persimmon Avenue signals in flashing mode when they were installed on January 23, 2026, to warn motorists while final checks are completed. Those two signals will be switched to full operation in the coming days, according to FDOT’s rollout plan. The signal at Aero Lane/Harvest Time Drive was installed but will be activated at a later date, as crews complete timing adjustments and coordination with nearby lights.

The installations aim to reduce crashes and improve traffic flow along SR 46, a busy east-west corridor through Sanford. For residents who drive First Street for work, school runs or errands, the most immediate change will be the presence of new signal heads, pedestrian push buttons and updated signage. Motorists should expect altered traffic patterns near Mangoustine Avenue and Persimmon Avenue once the lights move from flashing to full operation, and should plan for potential short-term delays during final activation work.

Local businesses and delivery services that rely on predictable travel times may see gradual improvements in intersection throughput once all signals are fully operational. Pedestrians and bicyclists will also gain more controlled crossing opportunities at the three intersections, improving access to nearby residential blocks and commercial strips. School bus operators and transit riders who use First Street should remain attentive to the new signals and any temporary traffic control measures during the activation phase.

FDOT’s decision to phase the activations - starting with flashing mode for two intersections and delaying the Aero Lane/Harvest Time Drive activation - reflects standard practice for introducing new traffic control devices while conducting on-site verification and signal timing calibration. Residents may notice workers conducting final adjustments and short-term lane closures as the department finalizes operations.

For Seminole County drivers, the change means greater regulation of vehicle and pedestrian movements at previously uncontrolled or stop-controlled intersections on SR 46. Obeying the new signals and reducing speed in the corridor will be important as patterns settle. FDOT’s installation marks a visible step toward safer crossings and smoother travel along West First Street; expect the two flashing signals to enter full operation soon and the Aero Lane/Harvest Time Drive signal to follow after final testing.