Charlotte County upgrades Harborview Road signals to handle hurricane winds

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WINK) — Charlotte County is hardening a busy intersection against future storms as part of ongoing hurricane recovery efforts.

The project at Harborview Road and Kings Highway includes replacing span-wire traffic signals with mast-arm lights, which are large grey beams designed to withstand high winds. Some of the new signals are already up, but covered.

"It's pretty chaotic. The road conditions aren't the best," said Charles Paris, a Charlotte County resident.

The county is working to strengthen the intersection, which has remained largely unchanged for years. WINK News reporter Maddie Herron visited the site to learn more about the improvements.

"This intersection hasn't changed in like 20 years," Paris said. "The lights will come down during the high winds. The posts probably would be a better idea."

The project also includes upgrading streetlights and updating pavement, signage and pedestrian crossings to improve overall traffic safety. Residents say they welcome the improvements, especially during hurricane season.

"Reinforcing things where we can is a great idea," said Kaitlyn Bolek, a Charlotte County resident.

Some drivers say the road still has its problems, including motorists who don't use turn signals or stop behind the line for pedestrians. However, many view the storm-focused safety project as a positive step forward.

"Even years after the storms, it still affects hundreds of people. People are still rebuilding their homes, still making up for the cost of damages and everything, and reinforcing the place they live is also a great start," Bolek said.

The county says the project is moving along on schedule. Construction is expected to wrap up by the end of the year or early 2027.