Tuesday, April 30, 2024

CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month this May

🚴‍♀️🚴‍♂️ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month this May

May is National Bike Month and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is encouraging residents to go for a ride. Whether someone is an experienced rider or hasn't biked in a while, May is a great time to head out in Connecticut by bike.

To celebrate National Bike Month, CTDOT is participating in National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. As of today, 50 schools across Connecticut are signed up. CTDOT is also participating in Bike to Work Week from May 13-19, 2024.

"Whether it's for fun, exercise, or a means of travel, riding a bike is wonderful mode of sustainable transportation," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "I encourage schools to participate in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day and for businesses to encourage their employees to Bike to Work. Our Safe Routes to School team is here to help plan activities and ensure that people stay safe in their communities."

"Bike, Walk and Roll to School Day is an excellent way to kick off National Bike Month here in Connecticut. Bike, Walk and Roll to School Day promotes physical activity and healthy habits, while also supporting safe, active transportation that reduces congestion around our schools," said Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker. "I encourage districts and communities to work together to create safer and more accessible transportation routes and inspire students to engage in healthy and active lifestyles."

In 2005, the CTDOT established a Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS). Since then, many communities participating in the SRTS Program have shown improved safety and accessibility for students with and without disabilities. CTDOT is excited to share the following updates from the SRTS Team:

Equity:

  • An expansion of the program to high school as well as tribal agencies.
  • Outreach efforts to ensure all students in grades K-12 to participate in safe, accessible, and sustainable active transportation.

Education:

Encouragement:

Evaluation:

  • Completed three Safe Routes to School Walk Audits with reports in ArcGIS StoryMaps.
  • Safe Routes to School Action Plans available to communities that have previously participated in the walk audit program.

Those riding their bikes in May are also encouraged to sign up for the Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge. The annual event runs through May 31, 2024 and users are eligible to win prizes. For more information and to register, visit CTrides.com/DLC.

For more information on the Safe Routes to School Program, please visit ct.gov/SafeRoutes.


Thursday, April 25, 2024

Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective May 28, 2024

Schedule changes will require some trains to be bused during the construction projects ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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Connecticut
Department of Transportation

Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective May 28, 2024

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting customers of the upcoming train service adjustments effective Tuesday, May 28, 2024, through Friday, November 1, 2024, on the Hartford Line (HL). As a result of several construction projects, select weekday trains will need to be bused between Springfield and Hartford and one train to be bused the entire route.

Construction will occur between 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Full details and the temporary schedule will be released next month. 

These service adjustments are required for the Windsor Locks Station and Track Improvement projects consisting of replacing the existing Windsor Locks Station with a new station featuring high-level platforms, new lighting fixtures, and ADA accessible features. Also taking place will be the installation of new interlockings and maintenance of existing rail grade crossings with additional safety features.

"Work is planned to occur outside of peak train times to limit impact to customers. This amended service plan will expedite these critical projects and save a year on construction and significantly reduce cost uncertainties. We appreciate the public's patience as these needed station and track improvements occur on the Hartford Line," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer.

Passengers are encouraged to visit hartfordline.com or amtrak.com for the latest service information.

Riders can also sign up to have alerts sent directly to their mobile phone or email accounts by signing up at hartfordline.com/service-alertsDon't forget to review your preferences to ensure you receive the most up-to-date information for your travels. Preferences may need updating after each schedule change.


Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Connecticut River Ferries Return for 2024 Season

Historic ferries ready for another year on the Connecticut River ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

Connecticut River Ferries Return for 2024 Season

With spring underway, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is excited to share that Connecticut's two historical ferries are set to launch for the 2024 season.

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry will open on Friday, April 26 at 7 a.m. Both services were delayed from an anticipated April 1 start due to high water levels on the Connecticut River. The services will run daily through November 30. The two historic ferries across the Connecticut River are some of the most unique modes of transportation in the country, where pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles are all welcome.

The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is the oldest continuously operating ferry in America, which began service in 1655. At one time, two horses on treadmills supplied the power to propel the vessel across the river. In 1876, the ferry was modernized to steam driven crafts. Today's craft is a three-car barge named the Hollister III that is towed back and forth by the Cumberland, a diesel-powered tug boat.

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry launched in 1769, and CTDOT began operating the service in 1917. This year the Selden III, the vessel that transports the public across the river, is celebrating its 75th year of service. The Selden III was commissioned by the state of Connecticut in 1941, but because of a shortage of steel due to World War II, was not built and put into service until 1949. It can carry eight or nine cars and 49 passengers, and thanks to having a propeller and rudder on both ends of the boat, and travels back and forth without needing to turn around.

Last season, the Chester-Hadylme Ferry and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry combined to carry nearly 50,000 passengers and more than 123,000 vehicles.

"Although we are getting a later start than expected, we are excited to launch the two historic Connecticut River ferries this week. These historic vessels offer some of the most unique modes of transportation anywhere in the country. No matter if someone is driving, walking, or a riding a bike, the ferries offer picturesque views of the river and communities, and are a wonderful way to travel," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "I look forward to another great season on the Connecticut River with Master Captain Blaise Clemente, Master Captain John Kennedy, and the entire CTDOT ferry crew. I hope the public comes out and enjoys all these services have to offer."

Both ferries operate on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and on weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Weather conditions, water levels, or mechanical issues may impact ferry operations, with any closures and delays shared online. Members of the public are encouraged to sign up for alerts on the real-time travel and traffic information website CTroads.com.

For additional information on the ferries, including fares, schedules, and complete history, please visit CT.gov/DOT/CTferries.

 Chester-Hadlyme Ferry

Above: The Chester-Hadylme Ferry. Below: The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry. Credit: CTDOT

Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry


Friday, April 19, 2024

CTDOT Asks the Public to Drive Less and Reduce Their Carbon Footprint

🌎 Drive Less CT Climate Challenge Begins on Earth Day ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

CTDOT Asks the Public to Drive Less and Reduce Their Carbon Footprint

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that the annual Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge launches on Earth Day (April 22, 2024) and runs through May 31, 2024.

In a continued effort to fight climate change, the campaign, sponsored by CTrides, demonstrates the collective impact that individuals can have in reducing harmful greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the main cause of climate change. The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge shows the benefits of using the state's public transit systems, carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, or telecommuting, compared to driving. Through the CTrides app, participants can track their progress and clearly see how individual actions can make a difference.

This year, the campaign's goals are to eliminate 425,000 pounds of emissions, eliminate 30,000 car trips, and reduce the miles driven by single-occupant vehicles by 480,000 miles. As a new feature this year, the campaign will arrange with its partner, One Tree Planted, to plant 10 trees for every 30 car trips eliminated for up to 1,000 trees across the United States to help clear the air. This six-week challenge also offers participants who record their green trips on the CTrides app chances to win prizes.

"Private vehicles remain our state's largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. This Earth Day, I encourage all residents to drive less and use greener alternatives to get to where they need to go," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Whether someone is walking or riding a bike, taking a bus or train, or calling for a shared ride on new microtransit services, there are many ways to get around the state. This campaign encourages residents to try these options and help fight climate change."

The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge supports Connecticut's goals to reduce GHG emissions by 45% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. To join, download the CTrides app or go to CTrides.com/DLC to set up a free account and start recording any eligible trips to win gift cards valued up to $500. The CTrides app also offers a trip planner that gives residents travel options to destinations throughout Connecticut.

"We are excited to support the Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge again this year," said Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes. "Emissions from the transportation sector continue to be the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions and asthma-causing air pollution in our state. This challenge is a great opportunity for residents to consider their transportation habits and the collective impact they can have through taking emissions-reducing actions such as biking, walking, utilizing public transportation, and carpooling and vanpooling. I encourage everyone to join the state's effort to fight the climate crisis by joining the Climate Challenge starting this Earth Day."

The CTrides app and the Challenge website will feature a dashboard to track the campaign's progress in achieving its goals of reduced emissions, car trips and miles eliminated. Participants will receive weekly email updates on their impact on these campaign's goals and their eligibility for prize drawings. The prize drawings will be held following the end of the campaign.

For more information and to register, visit CTrides.com/DLC.

About CTrides

CTrides is the commuter services program of the Connecticut Department of Transportation designed to provide information on alternate commuting and travel options and services to Connecticut residents, employees, and students, resulting in reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality. Travel options for driving alone include the train, bus, carpooling, vanpooling, teleworking, and walking or biking. The service is free, and everyone is encouraged to visit CTrides.com or call 877-CTrides.


Monday, April 1, 2024

Hartford Line Weekend Schedule Adjustments

Weekend schedule adjustment starts April 6-7, 2024 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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DOT Seal
Connecticut
Department of Transportation

Hartford Line Weekend Schedule Adjustments to Accommodate Amtrak's Grade Crossing Renewal Project

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting customers of the upcoming temporary weekend train service adjustment effective in April and the first weekend of May on the Hartford Line (HL). No schedule changes will be in effect the weekend of April 20-21. This service adjustment is to accommodate Amtrak's Grade Crossing Renewal project on Britannia Street and North Colony Street in Meriden. This project involves installing new concrete crossing pads that allow for vehicles to cross and ensures the crossing remains in a state of good repair.

Please note that these adjustments may alter train schedules by as much as 20 minutes, connecting trains may differ, and may impact boarding assignments at station platforms.

Trains with schedule adjustments of 10 minutes or more include:

Weekend Northbound

  • CTrail 6454 departing New Haven Union Station at 12:15 p.m., 15 minutes later.
  • Amtrak 416 departing New Haven Union Station at 8:10 p.m., 20 minutes later.

Weekend Southbound

  • Amtrak 461 arriving at New Haven Union Station at 11:46 a.m., 10 minutes earlier.
  • Amtrak 409 arriving at New Haven Union Station at 2:09 p.m., 10 minutes earlier.

Additional train schedules may have modifications of five minutes or less. Passengers can find the latest Hartford Line schedule here and are encouraged to visit HartfordLine.com or Amtrak.com for the latest service information and scheduled departure times.

Riders can also sign up for alerts sent directly to their phone or email at HartfordLine.com/service-alerts.