Manatee County expands its Emergency Vehicle Preemption System

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — More than 100 intersections in Manatee County will undergo technology upgrades to help first responders reach emergencies faster.

The county announced it is expanding a program called the Emergency Vehicle Preemption System. It modifies traffic signals so the lights turn green for first responders, saving crucial time in emergencies.

Stepping into the job of an EMT is something Chloe Millard was inspired to do.

“I became an EMT to follow in my dad’s footsteps. He is still currently employed with the county and has been for 32 years,” she said.

She has been an EMT since 2023, the same year Manatee County first started a pilot program using the Emergency Vehicle Preemption System. It uses technology that recognizes when first responders are approaching an intersection through a device installed in their emergency vehicle. That device automatically connects with the traffic light to turn it green.

“I think it’s very helpful with clear roadways and intersections, and every second matters in someone’s medical emergency,” she said.

The system was originally installed at 24 intersections, with 20 vehicles equipped with devices to change the lights. Now, the county is incorporating the technology at an additional 95 intersections, and all Manatee emergency vehicles will have preemption devices.

“So by having that intersection change happen prior to the ambulance even getting there, we’re ensuring safety for the crew as well as safety for everyone else going through that intersection,” said Jason Evans, the district chief of operations in Manatee County EMS.

In an emergency, every second counts, and Manatee County is committed to making sure first responders have every advantage possible.

Manatee County says the expansion is set to be complete by the fall of 2026. Officials also say there have been no issues with traffic using this new system.