PALM BAY, Fla. – Motorists are advised that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Brevard County will close the intersection of South Babcock Street (State Road (S.R.) 507) and Palm Bay Road from 8 p.m. Friday, July 11, through 6 a.m. Monday, July 14, to replace traffic signal equipment.

The signal equipment was damaged during last year’s hurricanes, and temporary repairs were made. But complete reconstruction is now essential to avoid signal failure during a future storm event – potentially causing a long-term outage at this busy intersection. FDOT and Brevard County have a well-coordinated plan to complete this critical project as quickly as possible.

During the weekend closure, limited local traffic will be permitted to access businesses and residences near the intersection, and detours will be in place for motorists traveling through the area. Law enforcement will be in place to draw attention to the traffic signal work and assist with traffic flow.

Heavy delays are expected along South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) and Palm Bay Road, and drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes or follow the detour routes that will be in place. Turning movements will be highly restricted at the intersection.

Detour information:

·       Drivers traveling north on South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) should follow detour signage to turn right on Port Malabar Boulevard, then left on Clearmont Street/Lipscomb Street, then left on Florida Avenue back to South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) to continue northbound.

·       Drivers traveling south on South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) should follow detour signage to turn left on Florida Avenue, then right on Lipscomb Street/Clearmont Street, then right on Port Malabar Boulevard back to South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) to continue southbound.

·       Drivers traveling east on Palm Bay Road should follow detour signage to turn left onto Dairy Road, then right on Florida Avenue, then right on Lipscomb Street back to Palm Bay Road to continue eastbound.

·       Drivers traveling west on Palm Bay Road should follow detour signage to turn right on Lipscomb Street, then left on Florida Avenue, then left on Dairy Road back to Palm Bay Road to continue westbound.

NOTE: During the closure, if drivers proceed into the intersection without following the detours, South Babcock Street (S.R. 507) will be reduced to a single lane of traffic that will be required to turn right onto Palm Bay Road; left turns and through traffic will be prohibited. Palm Bay Road will also be reduced to a single lane of traffic, and left turns will be prohibited. 

The work schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. FDOT advises motorists to use caution, remain alert, and follow all posted detour signs. We appreciate your patience during this critical intersection project.