FDOT Announces Safety Improvement Project

North Courtenay Parkway, also known as State Route (SR) 3, in Merritt Island has an AADT (annual average daily traffic count) of nearly 38,000. Hazardous characteristics, including a roadway with five lanes and bi-directional center turning lanes; significant visibility challenges; numerous curb cuts; and crosswalks that are not well defined endanger drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. Between 2017 and 2021, 13 traffic-related fatalities occurred on a stretch of this extremely busy north-south thoroughfare.

In an effort to improve traffic flow on North Courtenay Parkway and enhance safety for all those that utilize the roadway, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is proposing a safety-enhancement project that will provide for improvements along this hectic, yet integral, roadway.

What follows is a description of the project that was provided by FDOT and outlines the proposed improvements. Stay tuned for information on public meetings and how you can obtain additional information as this project begins to advance.

The first of these meetings is slated for Thursday, February 19, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Divine Mercy Catholic Church (The Dome), 1940 North Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, Florida, 32953.

Project Description
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is proposing safety improvements along North Courtenay Parkway (State Road (S.R.) 3) from Catalina Isle Drive to the S.R. 528 eastbound ramps in Merritt Island, Brevard County. The purpose of this project is to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists.

Proposed Improvements include:
• Raised Median Installation – Replacing the existing two-way left-turn lane with a raised concrete median will reduce conflict points, or areas where crashes are more likely to occur, and help prevent head-on and angle crashes. (See Figure 1 on reverse)
• Additional Median Modifications – Modifying or closing the existing open medians at certain non-signalized intersections can reduce confusion and help drivers make safer decisions, lowering the chance of crashes.

The proposed median changes include converting open medians to two-way directional medians at Lean Street/Artemis Boulevard and Alma Boulevard; closing the open medians at Hickory Avenue, Butler Avenue and Venetian Way; and limiting left-turn movements from side streets at Queensland Avenue and Summer place.

• New Traffic Signal & Intersection Improvements – Includes constructing a new traffic signal with mast arm poles at Via De La Reina. The new signalized intersection will be equipped with new crosswalks and pedestrian signals.
• Additional Traffic Signal Upgrades – Includes replacing existing span wire traffic signals with updated infrastructure, installing reflective backplates on all signal heads for better visibility, and adjusting signal timings to accommodate increased U-turn movements at signalized intersections.
• Roadway Enhancements – Includes resurfacing pavement in select areas along the corridor and updating signage and pavement markings for improved clarity and safety.

These proposed improvements will reduce the number of severe crashes, improve traffic predictability, and provide safer access to neighborhoods and businesses. These improvements are also consistent with the existing roadway design south of the project area, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience throughout the corridor.