CTDOT Announces First Universal EV Fast Chargers in CT Service Plazas Now Available

First set of chargers is now available on I-95 Madison Southbound with more to come along the I-95 and 395 corridors. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation CTDOT Announces First Universal EV Fast Chargers in CT Service Plazas Now Available Posted on May 27 , 2022 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced that level three electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers are now available at the Interstate 95 Southbound service plaza in Madison. This is the first set of universal access fast chargers at a Connecticut service plaza and can fully charge a vehicle in less than 30 minutes. Additional publicly available fast chargers at service plazas in New Canaan, Greenwich, and Fairfield will be online over the next several weeks, with more to come. CTDOT made the announcement at a special event earlier today with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), elected officials and various stakeholders. "These universal fast chargers make it easier for people to travel to and through Connecticut. With convenient access to Interstates 95 and 395, families and travelers can grab a coffee or snack, charge up, and get back on the road more quickly and enjoy their summer plans," Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti said. "Governor Lamont challenged us to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector and we are doing just that. The future of transportation is green transportation, and by providing these chargers at our clean and convenient service plazas, we are making sure Connecticut is EV ready." "Scaling up EV deployment across our state is a major component of our strategy to achieve our Greenhouse Gas Emissions goals and mitigate the climate crisis before it's too late," DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. "The transportation sector is responsible for the majority of our greenhouse gas emissions—38%--and 66% of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, a significant contributor to harmful air pollution in our state. A key aspect of consumer adoption of EVs will be ease of use, ability to access charging infrastructure conveniently, and ability to charge quickly. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, historic levels of funding are coming to Connecticut to scale up EV deployment on our highways, but we also need private partners to get where we need to go. I applaud Applegreen for installing this charging infrastructure, and just in time for Memorial Day Weekend! Charge up your vehicle and head over to one of our beautiful shoreline parks!" Tesla-specific chargers have already been installed at many Connecticut service plazas, which are operated by Project Service LLC, but these new conveniently located level three fast chargers are universal, meaning any electric vehicle can plug in and charge up. The level three fast chargers were privately funded by Applegreen Electric, an organization with over 500 fast EV charging bays across the globe. "Applegreen Electric looks forward to partnering with the State of Connecticut as they expand EV charging access across the state," Eugene Moore, CEO of Applegreen Electric said. "We are excited to be working closely with Project Service, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and local utilities to bring the best EV driver charging experience across the full plaza system." "Through our partnership with CTDOT, Applegreen Electric and all our stakeholders, we are excited to kick off the summer travel season with the launch of these new DC fast chargers that will provide connectivity and comfort to the travel experience of electric vehicle owners," Michael Jones, CEO of Project Service said. "The team at Project Service has been committed to the idea of delivering an EV roadmap for Connecticut by providing a convenient, reliable and high-quality experience for electric vehicle drivers at the service plazas across the state." The charging stations are first come, first serve, and require a credit card for payment. Additional locations along the I-95 and I-395 corridors will become available throughout the summer months. The State has been working to scale up EV deployment in a number of ways. The Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Automobile Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR) program offers incentives of up to $9,500 for Connecticut residents who purchase or lease an eligible battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric or fuel cell EVs. The CHEAPR program was updated in 2021 to include rebates for income-qualifying individuals for both new and used EVs. CHEAPR has grown since it began as a pilot back in the spring 2015; as of last month, CHEAPR had provided over $13.5 M dollars to Connecticut drivers and helped fund the purchase of over 8,000 EVs. There are currently 28 EV models eligible for funding covering all drivers' needs, including sedans, SUVs and even a minivan. Go here to learn more: CHEAPR - Home (ct.gov) Additionally, The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) opened up a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) docket last year, which includes, where appropriate, the implementation of DEEP EV Roadmap-recommended policies, programs, and strategies to optimize the deployment of ZEVs and the associated distribution system infrastructure. Among these is the EV Charging Program, which provides significant incentives for residential and public Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) and includes incentive adders for EVSE located in Connecticut's underserved communities. Through the Federal Infrastructure Law, also referred to as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, funding is being provided to states around the country to strategically deploy EV charging infrastructure. Connecticut's share of funds from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program is being managed by Connecticut Department of Transportation. CTDOT is working closely with different state agencies and stakeholders to develop a plan on how to build out the state's fast charging network. To learn more about Connecticut's NEVI plan, visit bit.ly/ctdotnevi. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, CTDOT and AAA Remind Motorists to Slow Down

According to AAA, road travel is expected to increase by nearly 5 percent compared to last year. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, CTDOT and AAA Remind Motorists to Slow Down Posted on May 26 , 2022 With more travelers expected to head out over the Memorial Day weekend, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and AAA remind motorists to slow down and travel safe. According to AAA, road travel is expected to increase by nearly five percent compared to last year, which represents approximately 93 percent of pre-pandemic vehicle travel. "Memorial Day weekend is considered one of the busiest travel times in Connecticut. Vehicle crashes are rising to unprecedented levels and people continue traveling way too fast," CTDOT Commissioner Joe Giulietti said. "I urge motorists to put down the cell phone, buckle up, slow down, and always drive sober." According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 5,600 people were killed during the Memorial Day travel holiday (between Thursday and Monday) from 2011-2020, an average of over 560 fatalities each year nationally. In Connecticut, 44 people were killed in crashes during the Memorial Day travel holiday between 2011-2020. "Every year, hundreds of Americans hit the road on Memorial Day weekend but don't make it home to their families after a traffic crash. A car is a multi-ton weapon when operated recklessly, and drivers must be sober, avoid distractions, and travel at a safe speed so they don't endanger themselves and others," Alec Slatky, Director of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Northeast said. "Even small changes in speed can make a big difference in crash severity. And with AAA expecting to service hundreds of thousands of vehicles across the country this weekend, it's especially important to Slow Down and Move Over to give all roadside workers the space they need." Members of the public are reminded that there will be schedule changes for public transportation over the Memorial Day weekend. Riders are asked to visit ctrides.com for the latest travel schedule. Motorists are also encouraged to visit and register with cttravelsmart.com for real-time traffic information on state highways. Additionally, there will be no maintenance or construction activities on limited-access highways during the Memorial Day weekend from 6 a.m. Friday, May 27, 2022 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022. Only work of an emergency nature will be undertaken. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month

May is National Bike Month and CTDOT encourages the public to get outside and ride ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month Posted on May 17 , 2022 May is National Bike Month, and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) joins with many communities and groups across the country in celebrating this annual event. Whether it's to reach a destination, get some exercise, or just for fun, CTDOT encourages members of the public to get outside and ride and share their cycling experiences on social media. It's as easy as one, two, three - so get outside and ride! Follow CTDOT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and join the BikeWalkCT Facebook Community. Ride to a favorite coffee shop, hardware store, bike shop, restaurant, or local park or attraction. Take a photo or short video highlighting a favorite place to ride and share it on social media using the hashtags #BikePedCT2022, #BikeThere, and #BikeMonth. Ride often and share! "Long rides across town, an adventure on a favorite trail, or a quick trip around the block are many ways to celebrate and enjoy National Bike Month. Cycling can be fun, good for a person's health, and is a sustainable and green mode of transportation," CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti said. "For both seasoned riders and those who haven't pedaled in a while, please remember the rules of the road. Be safe by wearing a helmet, obeying traffic signals, and yielding at crosswalks. Be visible by wearing reflective clothing or gear and using hand signals. Stay safe and have fun!" Bicycles are considered a vehicle, and therefore the same rules apply. Motorists should look for bicyclists and be courteous in passing and turning. For pedestrian and bicycle laws, facts, and tips, visit WatchForMeCT.org. Bicycling can also be incorporated into a commute to work. If someone is within a couple of miles from work, they can jump on and ride. If a person is farther away, they can combine bicycling with other modes of public transportation. All CTtransit buses have bike racks to allow riders to bring a bike along. Bike policies can vary on Hartford Line, Shore Line East, and Metro-North New Haven Line, but bicycles are generally permitted on trains. People can also combine carpooling with a bike housed at work to give more flexibility during the day. For more information on incorporating transit into a commute, visit CTrides.com. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

Interchange 33 on Interstate 95 in Stratford Fully Opens Today

Newly constructed Exit 33 Southbound off-ramp opens today, Friday, May 13, 2022 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation Interchange 33 on Interstate 95 in Stratford Fully Opens Today Posted on May 13 , 2022 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced that the Exit 33 Southbound off-ramp on Interstate 95 will be open to motorists at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 13, 2022. This follows the opening of the I-95 Exit 33 Northbound on-ramp in November 2021. The Interchange 33 Project in Stratford made the area a full interchange, with on- and off-ramps accessible in both highway directions. "This project has been in the making for many years, and now with both new ramps open, access to a major shopping and economic area in Stratford is more convenient. I am pleased that we remain on schedule to have this project fully completed in time for the busy summer season," Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti said. "Thank you to our federal, state, and local partners who helped us make this project possible." "Today marks the successful conclusion to a process long in the making. This is significant to Stratford as it marks the closing chapter to the long story of Stratford's toll plaza. A toll that was bad for the environment, bad for traffic safety and commuters, and bad for local commerce and jobs. A toll that disrupted the flow of traffic, not only on I-95, but also the flow of traffic within our Town. The reopening of the Exit 33 on-ramp and now off-ramp, will provide Stratford with greater access to, and exit from, I-95; as well as an investment in our Route 1 corridor to improve traffic flow, enhance commerce, create jobs and broaden our local tax base," Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford, Monroe, Seymour, Shelton) said. "So many people worked together over many years to move this project forward. I thank Mayor Laura Hoydick for her leadership in Town and in Hartford, former Mayor and State Representative John Harkins, many members of the Stratford Chamber of Commerce, DOT Commissioner Giulietti, former DOT Commissioner James Redeker and the entire State Department of Transportation, our federal government partners, Don Shubert, local labor and many more. Their efforts brought us to this point today." "Stratford has been waiting a long time for a fully functional interchange at Exit 33," State Representative Joe Gresko (D-Stratford), House Chair of the Environment Committee, said. "Thanks to the DOT for their continued investment in Stratford, for affording residents improved convenience, and paving the way for improved economic growth." "The opening of the Southbound Exit 33 off-ramp of I-95 near Veterans Boulevard completes the full interchange project which was left on the cutting room floor back in the 1950s when authorities wanted to prevent motorists from using the exit to avoid tolls at the Stratford Toll Plaza," Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick said. "The omission of this exit at the time created decades of poor highway accessibility, traffic flow, and business access, which we finally correct today. This off-ramp opening follows the opening of the on-ramp last fall, completing a project that serves as a true model of intergovernmental cooperation and support between the Town and the State, and bipartisan work with local legislators and town officials. I would also like to express thanks to former State Representative and Mayor John Harkins, who always kept this project at the forefront, and never let it leave our focus. We are thrilled to see it become a reality today!" The Interchange 33 Project added an Exit 33 on-ramp for the Northbound Lane and off-ramp for the Southbound Lane, making it a full interchange. Roadwork on Ferry Boulevard and Barnum Avenue Cutoff, traffic signal work, and drainage improvements, were also included in this project. It was funded with 80 percent federal funding and 20 percent state funding. While the Exit 33 off-ramp opens today, workers will remain in the area over the next several weeks to finalize the project. Motorists are advised to use caution in work zones: slow down, keep a safe distance, and stay alert.  Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Launches Railroad Safety National Ad Campaign on Connecticut Airwaves

The nonprofit public safety education and awareness organization launched a national public awareness advertising campaign ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Launches Railroad Safety National Ad Campaign on Connecticut Airwaves Posted on May 12 , 2022 Operation Lifesaver, Inc., the nonprofit public safety education and awareness organization launched a national public awareness advertising campaign in Connecticut. Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities, and injuries at highway-rail crossings and trespassing on or near railroad tracks. The three video ads, ranging from 15 to 60 seconds, highlight rail safety protocols and aim to increase awareness among rail passengers and pedestrians. The OLI ads will run on Connecticut TV stations until mid-June for the first time. "Trains can run on any track at any time in either direction. This ad campaign reiterates the message: if you see train tracks, assume a train is nearby," Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph Giulietti said. "We encourage all pedestrians and rail passengers to never cross over train tracks unless there is a marked designated crossing. We all need to do our part to reduce train collisions by staying off the tracks and staying alert." Since 2017, 30 pedestrian strikes and nine motor vehicle collisions have occurred on Connecticut rails. Already this year, Connecticut has experienced six pedestrian strikes and one motor vehicle collision.* "Operation Lifesaver's goals with this ad campaign are to educate the public and increase awareness about the dangers of rail incidents and how quickly they can occur," Operation Lifesaver Connecticut State Coordinator Kevin Burns said. "For our 50th anniversary as an organization, we're encouraging all residents of Connecticut to take the Rail Safety Pledge. Only together can we prevent train tragedies throughout the year." The OLI ad campaign will air for the next several weeks and the videos are also available online for viewing and sharing on social media. Find the Blue & White gives step-by-step instructions for motor vehicle passengers if they find themselves stuck on rail tracks. Drivers should safely exit their vehicle, find the blue and white Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign on the at-grade crossings, and call the number on the sign, providing the operator with the crossing number located on the sign. The operator will then alert train traffic to slow down or change tracks. "Remember, find the blue and white to save your life," the video states. "If an ENS sign cannot be found at a train track crossing, drivers can dial 911." See Tracks? Think Train! depicts a pedestrian walking along rail tracks while listening to music, unable to hear a train driving towards them until it's too late. "It's no contest," warns the video. "Every day, people tempt fate and die trespassing on railroad tracks. See tracks? Think train." This ad is also available in Spanish. An alternate See Tracks? Think Train! ad showcases the equal force of a car crushing a soda can to a train striking a pedestrian or motor vehicle on the tracks. In addition to ad campaigns, Operation Lifesaver also conducts several community outreach events every year and spearheads Rail Safety Week in September. For more information about rail safety and to take the Rail Safety Pledge, visit OLI.org. *Note: Data is up to date as of May 11, 2022. About Operation Lifesaver Operation Lifesaver, which this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of its founding in 1972, is a non-profit public safety education and awareness organization dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities and injuries at highway-rail crossings and preventing trespassing on or near railroad tracks. In 1986 the non-profit Operation Lifesaver, Inc. national office was created to help support the efforts of state Operation Lifesaver programs, saving lives by sharing rail safety messages with audiences across the U.S. and beyond. A national network of trained volunteers gives free presentations on rail safety and a public awareness campaign, "See Tracks? Think Train!" provides tips and statistics to encourage safe behavior near the tracks. Learn more about Rail Safety Week; follow OLI on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube. In CT, the CT DOT administers the program.   Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly