The Florida Department of Transportation, District One (FDOT D1) is dedicated to improving smart roads and traffic control across key areas. Therefore, in May 2026, FDOT D1 started major road updates along State Road 684, also known as Cortez Road.

As a key eight-mile road in Manatee County, FL, SR 684 serves as a main route for workers and emergency evacuations. Specifically, it links the City of Bradenton to nearby coastal islands like Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach. In order to improve traffic flow and optimize signal timing from 26th Street West to US 301 Boulevard East, FDOT D1 chose Econolite Systems, Inc. to install modern traffic tools and Connected Vehicle (CV) tech.

Project Snapshot

Key Project Outcomes

• Better traffic flow and real-time signal tracking across an eight-mile road.
• Full Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) support to boost safety and road connections.
• Smart radar sensors that collect continuous, high-resolution traffic data.
• Safe data sharing that meets FDOT Security Credential Management System (SCMS) rules.
• Stronger road systems along a major coastal evacuation route.

By using smart sensors and connected tech along Cortez Road, FDOT turns a busy coastal road into a safer, data-driven corridor.

Project Overview

FDOT D1 awarded Econolite Systems, Inc. the main contract to deliver a full traffic system upgrade. As a result, Econolite provides all labor, tools, setup, and testing needed to bring these road systems online.

Specifically, the project targets the busiest part of SR 684 (Cortez Rd), running from 26th Street W to US 301 Blvd E. By adding Roadside Units (RSUs) and radar sensors to signal posts, the system collects real-time traffic data. Consequently, this helps engineers fine-tune signals while sending key safety updates directly to connected cars.

Deployment and Installation

Econolite field teams—led by certified IMSA technicians—manage the full project from 2026 through 2029. First, crews will set up radar sensors, industrial edge computers, and RSUs at key intersections.

Additionally, Econolite handles all system setup, connection tests, and sync work with FDOT systems. Furthermore, the team verifies full links with the Security Credential Management System (SCMS) to ensure encrypted data flow.

Technology Used in This Project

• Radar Detection Systems
• Connected Vehicle Roadside Units (RSUs) & V2X Tech
• Industrial Field Computers & Traffic Controllers
• Systems Integration & Field Services

Operational Benefits

Overall, the ATSPM and CV upgrades give FDOT District One key operational benefits:

• Clear traffic data to help retime signals quickly and accurately.
• Better traffic movement and shorter stops along a busy coastal road.
• A solid base for emergency vehicle priority and transit updates.
• Full match with state and federal security standards for connected cars.
• Safer driving conditions during heavy beach traffic and storm evacuations.

Ready to Modernize Your Roads with ATSPM & V2X?

Econolite offers complete connected vehicle, detection, and tech services to update local roadways. Contact Econolite today to see how our team can support your traffic goals.

Related Case Studies

Explore similar Connected Vehicle and traffic signal projects:

• V2X Enabled Interconnected Traffic Control System Innovations – Hawaii DOT
• City of Madison Adaptive Signal Control Deployment
• Innovate Mound Connected Vehicle Project – Macomb County

Explore Related Solutions

• Connected & Automated Vehicle Solutions
• Advanced Traffic Detection Systems
• Centracs Performance Measures / ATSPM
• Systems Integration & Professional Services

Econolite’s Traffic Control Solutions

Cabinets | Controllers | Software | Advanced Detection / V2X | Professional Services

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