MD-83
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Conflict NMAC
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Procedure; Airspace Structure; Human Factors
While on arrival into FLL we were cleared to descend to 3;000 FT and vectored to join the localizer. ATC had called VFR traffic at 1-2 o'clock; [and instructed us to] 'maintain 3;000 FT until you have the airport and traffic in sight.' The instruction was immediately modified to maintain 3;500 FT as the traffic now seemed to be climbing.  As we descended to 3;500 FT; and turning to join the localizer; we visually spotted the aircraft (a high wing Cessna). As soon as we called traffic in sight; we were cleared the approach; [and instructed to] 'maneuver as required turn; climb; then descend to approach.' Simultaneously and immediately we received a Resolution Advisory (RA) commanding an approximately 2;000 fpm climb. I alerted approach that we were responding to an RA. The First Officer (pilot flying) smoothly and deliberately applied power and climbed in accordance with the RA. Once 'clear of conflict' and the target reappeared on our screen; it was directly underneath us at -400. We landed at FLL without further incident after executing a normal approach. IFR Aircraft should not be vectored toward the proximity of VFR aircraft intruding in the approach corridor. VFR Charting of Instrument Approach Corridors with published monitoring frequencies and contact requirements under specific conditions; i.e. ILS 28R In Use; flight in charted area prohibited between altitudes 'X' and 'Y'.
MD83 Captain reports a NMAC with a Cessna at 3;500 feet while turning to join the localized 28R at FLL. Traffic had been called by ATC and a TCAS RA to climb was generated.