Pinellas County is launching a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving emergency response during storms. Officials announced the county has secured $750,000 to help elevate traffic signal cabinets along Gulf Boulevard—equipment essential for managing traffic lights at key intersections.

Last hurricane season, dozens of these cabinets were destroyed after being submerged in saltwater.

“Water and electronics don’t mix,” said Tom Washburn of the Public Works Transportation Division. “All that equipment was damaged during the flooding.”

Indian Shores resident Laura Shortway recalled law enforcement stepping in to manually direct traffic after the system failed. “They had sheriffs parked on the causeways trying to keep non-residents out,” she said.

Washburn added, “Those officers have other critical responsibilities during a storm. They shouldn’t have to manage traffic when systems should be doing that job.”

Even with a warehouse stocked with backup parts, the widespread damage resulted in roughly $2 million in replacement costs. To prevent future disruptions, the county plans to use state budget funding to raise the signal cabinets above flood levels.

“Whether it’s a concrete base, elevated platform, or pole-mounted setup—it depends on the location and community needs,” Washburn said.

Ensuring traffic signals function during evacuations is vital, he added: “People need to be able to move quickly and safely when it’s time to leave.”

The full project is expected to cost $3.5 million and won’t be completed before this hurricane season. County officials are still exploring additional funding sources to fully carry it out.

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