CAPE CORAL, Fla. —
Cape Coral City Council is voting on a $1 million contract to install traffic lights at the intersection of Diplomat Parkway and Andalusia Boulevard, where residents say congestion and confusion have led to safety concerns.
“I’ve seen people actually turn out of the 7-Eleven and go down this way and make some weird turn, but, like, have to get over to the other lane. It’s sometimes a little confusing for other people, especially newer drivers. I know that for sure,” said Chris Serna of Fort Myers.
The intersection currently has eight stop signs, which some residents believe contribute to the confusion. Jeremy Garcia of Cape Coral described the area as dangerous.
“I’ve seen people crash right there, just coming from the left and straight, because they didn’t know who should go. And then once they both go at the same time, they just hit each other. So, yeah, I’d say it’s pretty bad,” Garcia said.
The city conducted a traffic study and determined that a traffic light is needed at the intersection. Shay Holton, a Cape Coral resident who uses the intersection, said traffic often becomes hectic.
“Yeah, for sure. And then I leave for work, and it’s completely, like, backed up. And with the school zone, with it flowing and stuff like that, I think they do need more lights here,” Holton said.
The council is also voting on a $240,000 contract for a contractor to oversee the construction, with funding coming from the Transportation Capital Projects Fund.
“It’ll make a huge difference. Honestly, if there were a better flow of traffic,” Holton added.
Serna also expressed optimism about the potential improvements. “I think it’ll help for sure,” he said.
The city plans to install additional traffic lights across Cape Coral.
Gulf Coast News
Cape Coral Traffic Lights
A new signal at Santa Barbara Boulevard and Tropicana Parkway was completed in May, and another at Chiquita Boulevard and Embers Parkway is set to finish in February.
“I mean, I like that they’re making everything better so everybody can be safer. Like, it’s always best to be safer. But, yeah, I guess it helps the community more. If they say it’s safer, then I guess it’s safer,” Garcia said.
Construction at the Diplomat Parkway and Andalusia Boulevard intersection is expected to begin in 2027. Count on Gulf Coast News to let you know what the city council decides.
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