Samsula, FL - Volusia County Traffic Engineering Director John Cheney spoke during today's Volusia County Council meeting about the work going on at an intersection that's seen more than its share of accidents. Several county agencies are working together on solutions for the intersection of State Road 415 and Pioneer Trail.
An accident on June 2, 2019, was fatal for Volusia County Sheriff’s Office Senior Deputy Frank Scofield. He was hit by a 75-year-old driver who ran the Stop sign eastbound on Pioneer Trail, hitting and killing Scofield as he was traveling northbound on State Road 415 through the intersection.
Cheney said at this point, tree trimming on westbound Pioneer Trail has been completed. Additional stop signs have been installed on all the approaches so that there are two stop signs, one on the right and one on the left. They are also in the process of installing red, reflective strips.
High-intensity LED flashing stop signs are on order and should be ready to install by the end of October. Cheney said the Road and Bridge Department is refreshing all of the pavement markings at the intersection. Rumble strips will be installed on all four approaches. He said that law enforcement let him know that there is a lot of distracted driving at the intersection.
Suggested long-term solutions, such as installing a traffic light or a roundabout, are still in the discussion stage. Cheney said that people are running the red flashing light that is currently installed and he feels the round-about is the best way to go. The problem with a round-about is the lack of right-away
Cheney said a report has been submitted to the Florida Department of Transportation seeking safety funds. If they do receive the funds, at this time, there is no local match. Another option is to look to the state legislation for an appropriation.
District 3 Representative Deb Denys said no matter which solution is chosen, nothing permanent will happen quickly. The conclusion was that the round-about is the best way to go but will depend on funding available.
