Stop: Orange County Public Works converting yield signs to stop signs

The Orange County Public Works Traffic Engineering Division is in the process of converting more than 3,000 yield signs to stop signs to improve safety in neighborhoods throughout the County.

The project launched following the adoption of a resolution from the Board of Orange County Commissioners in December of 2020, authorizing Public Works to approve certain traffic control devices to enhance safety at intersections.

Public Works identified 3,358 yield signs to be converted, organized them into 15 different groups, and has already converted a third of the total groups.  The entire project, which started in 2021, is estimated to be completed by October 2023.

“Over the years, Traffic Engineering has received numerous requests to replace yield signs with stop signs within residential neighborhoods,” said Frank Yokiel AICP, Orange County Traffic Engineering Project Manager.

“We review these requests on a case-by-case basis and replace the yield signs.  Since the yield signs were reaching their life expectancy for reflectivity, Traffic Engineering decided to initiate a program to replace all of the yield signs with stop signs for traffic control in residential neighborhoods.”

The conversion from Yield to Stop signs at regular intersections is a safety enhancement for all modes of transportation, including vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists.

“It clarifies user’s expectations to stop every single time,” said Humberto Castillero, P.E., PTOE, Traffic Engineering Division Manager. “It also increases awareness of traffic conditions and provides more time for users to decide whether it is safe to navigate through the intersection.  In addition, the new diamond grade material used for the STOP signs has much better reflectivity at night, enhancing the conspicuity of the signs.”

About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness, and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers, and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.

The Orange County Public Works Department consists of over 500 personnel who are committed to creating One Public Works, seizing opportunities to be the best in building essential and efficient infrastructure that exceeds the expectations of our community today and into the future.  The Public Works Department plans, designs, acquires, constructs, operates, and maintains the County’s transportation systems and infrastructure; through smart, safe, professional, innovative, and sustainable growth and services.  For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net.