The new traffic signals at the Moccasin Wallow Road and I-75 interchange were officially activated on Monday, October 13. After a rough start and a brief return to flashing mode, the signals are now fully operational as of Tuesday, October 14. We previously covered the installation process back in August, when the signals were being erected. You can read that story here: Moccasin Wallow Road Getting New Traffic Signals at I-75 Interchange
📹 WATCH: Dash cam video below shows the signal’s transition from initial activation to full functionality, including afternoon traffic conditions and off-ramp behavior.
Drivers in Parrish are already noticing changes at one of the area’s busiest intersections. The new signal setup is designed to reduce congestion and improve safety, especially during the weekday morning rush when westbound Moccasin Wallow Road traffic often backs up while trying to access southbound I-75. Likewise, drivers exiting southbound I-75 and attempting to head eastbound on Moccasin Wallow frequently face heavy backups and dangerous conditions.
We did observe some issues during the Monday afternoon drive. Westbound traffic on Moccasin Wallow backed up significantly, raising the risk of intersection blocking. At the same time, drivers exiting I-75 appeared confused by the temporary coverings on the stop signs at the end of the off-ramp. Some are still stopping and attempting to yield onto Moccasin Wallow, unsure whether the signal has fully replaced the previous stop-controlled movement. Until the signage is either fully removed or more clearly covered, this confusion may continue to disrupt traffic flow and merging behavior.
The activation is a key part of Manatee County’s ongoing efforts to manage traffic flow in northern Manatee County, including the growing communities of Parrish and Palmetto. One major goal is to prevent dangerous driving patterns, such as vehicles exiting I-75 and cutting across Moccasin Wallow Road traffic to merge.
This update follows the recent signal activation at Moccasin Wallow Road and Sawgrass Road. Additional signals are planned at 71st Avenue East and Carter Road as part of a broader corridor improvement plan.
