Thursday, June 27, 2024

CTDOT Releases CX Action Plan Progress Report

Report highlights efforts being made to make public transportation safer and more accessible ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Releases the Customer Experience (CX) Action Plan Annual Progress Report

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today released its Customer Experience (CX) Action Plan Annual Progress Report highlighting the efforts being made to improve transit in the state. The CX Action Plan is a vision for the future of public transportation in Connecticut based on customer priorities and feedback. CTDOT held dozens of pop-up events, conducted focus groups, collected thousands of survey responses and interviewed dozens of stakeholders to develop the CX Action Plan.

The Annual Progress Report provides customers with updates on the original 26 actions included in the CX Action Plan and identifies three new actions that aim to enhance the transit customer experience. Actions are categorized into three priority focus areas: Improved Service, Easier to Use, and Enhanced Accessibility and Comfort.

Significant progress has been made in many actions over the last 12 months, including:

  • Expanding bus services in Connecticut
  • Launching a microtransit pilot program
  • Enhancing various rail stations
  • Investing in new battery electric buses with enhanced rider amenities

The CX Action Plan Annual Progress Report can be viewed at transitcx.com/progress-report.

"The CX Action Plan and Annual Progress Report demonstrates CTDOT's commitment to providing the best possible experience for public transit customers across the state.  Transit customers deserve to have their expectations exceeded at every step of their transit journey," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer. "Whether it's expanded service options, improvements to the trip planning and fare payment experience, brand new electric buses, or enhancements at bus stops and rail stations, the CX Action Plan is keeping the customer at the center of all of the projects and programs we are delivering at CTDOT."

CTDOT first unveiled its Customer Experience (CX) Action Plan in June 2023, which outlined programs, policies, and investments to improve bus and rail services for all of Connecticut. In the CX Action Plan, CTDOT committed to providing annual updates on progress.

The CTDOT Customer Experience unit will be holding pop-up events at transit hubs and community events in the coming months to share the highlights from the Annual Progress Report, and to continue connecting with transit customers. 

For more information and to the read the CX Action Plan Annual Progress Report and the original CX Action Plan, please visit transitcx.com.


Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Drive Safe This Summer

CTDOT Encourages Drivers to Prioritize Safety During Peak Summer Travel Season ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Encourages Drivers to Prioritize Safety During Peak Summer Travel Season

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging drivers to prioritize safety and be mindful of road conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer travel season. With increased travel and warmer temperatures, and construction season in full swing, it's crucial to stay prepared and vigilant on the roads.

In 2022, the last year of verifiable data, 122 people were killed and 614 people suffered serious injuries in crashes in Connecticut during the summer months from June to September. More than 35% of those fatalities and more than 31% of serious injuries involved motorcyclists. Three people were killed and two people were seriously hurt in work zone crashes. The summer months accounted for 34% of all roadway fatalities in 2022 and 64% of all motorcyclists' fatalities.

"With active work zones around the state and busy summer travel upon us, we need drivers to do their part to keep themselves and everyone else on the road safe. Summer is a time for vacations and outdoor activities, and we want to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "By staying mindful of our shared responsibility on the roads, we can all contribute to a safer driving environment for ourselves and others."

The CTDOT offers the following tips for safe summer travel:

  • Stay Hydrated and Rested: Long drives can be taxing. Ensure you are well-rested and stay hydrated to maintain focus and avoid fatigue.
  • Check Your Vehicle: Before hitting the road, inspect your vehicle's tires, brakes, fluids, and air conditioning system. Proper maintenance can prevent breakdowns and crashes.
  • Plan Your Route: Use navigation tools to plan your route in advance. Check for road work, detours, and traffic updates to avoid unexpected delays.
  • Follow Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and drive according to road conditions. Summer often brings more pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
  • Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road. Avoid using phones, eating, or engaging in activities that divert your attention from driving. Designate a passenger to handle navigation and communication tasks if necessary.
  • Use Seat Belts: Ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts at all times, it is the law in the front seat and back seat to wear your seat belt.
  • Watch for Work Zones: Summer is peak construction season. Slow down and be cautious in work zones to keep workers and other drivers safe. Visit CTroads.org for real-time traffic updates and to sign up for alerts.
  • Stay Informed About Weather Conditions: Summer storms can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Stay informed about weather forecasts and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
  • Stock Your Vehicle: Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it is advisable to put together an emergency roadside kit to carry with you. This should include a cell phone and charger, so you can call for help when and where you need it, as well as other helpful items such as a first aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, and basic repair tools.
  • Don't Drive Drunk or High: If you have used an impairing substance such as alcohol or drugs, do not drive. If you are planning to drink or partake, arrange for a sober ride. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver.

For additional safety tips, visit nhtsa.gov.


CTDOT Celebrates Grant to Reenvision Future of Berlin Turnpike

Study will lay foundation to improve safety for all roadway users ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Celebrates Grant to Reenvision Future of Berlin Turnpike

Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today issued the following statement after Connecticut was awarded $2 million in federal funds to study, reenvision, and plan for a multi-modal future for one of its busiest central corridors along Route 5, known as the Berlin Turnpike.

The Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant—which was awarded to The Capitol Regional Council of Governments (CRCOG) in collaboration with CTDOT, CTtransit, and the towns of Berlin, Newington, and Wethersfield—will lay the foundation to improve safety for all roadway users, including pedestrians, customers of public transportation, and bicyclists.

Commissioner Eucalitto said: "The 11-mile Berlin Turnpike is a critical corridor connecting New Haven and Hartford Counties ripe with commerce and economic development opportunities. This grant award will help lay the foundation to create a future Route 5 with safety at the forefront. It will allow for the study and design of pedestrian and bicycle friendly infrastructure, such as sidewalks and trails, and look to develop a public transportation hub and land development opportunities in Newington, Wethersfield, and Berlin.

"CTDOT is fully supportive of this project and is committed to contributing matching funds for the advancement of a study with clear steps and outcomes that will make Route 5 a safe, productive corridor for all roadway users. Thank you to Secretary Buttigieg and the U.S. Department of Transportation, our federal delegation, CRCOG, and Berlin, Newington, and Wethersfield town officials for partnering on this important initiative. This award is a testament to what's possible when federal, state, regional, and local partners work collaboratively with the shared vision of improving lives through transportation."


Monday, June 17, 2024

CTDOT Highlights Expanded Pollinator Program During National Pollinator Week

🐝🌼🐦 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Highlights Expanded Pollinator Program During National Pollinator Week

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is highlighting ongoing efforts to help pollinators thrive during National Pollinator Week (June 17-23). The CTDOT Pollinator Program was implemented in 2017 at eight sites encompassing roughly 10 acres and today has grown to 139 conservation areas comprised of approximately 240 acres of state property. The goal of the Pollinator Program is to provide critical habitats for pollinating insects, such as bees and monarch butterflies, through strategic seeding operations and vegetation management, such as intentional reduced mowing.

The CTDOT pollinator corridors are marked with special conservation area signage and consist of warm season grasses, native wildflowers, and low-growing vegetation. They bloom in late June and continue through the summer months. Some examples of plants found in conservation areas include milkweed, goldenrod, joe pye weed, and aster. Varying species with staggered bloom times promotes biodiversity, healthy habitats, and increases the survival rate of pollinators in the area.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, there are many benefits to pollinators and pollination. For example, 80% of food and plant-based products require pollination, including almost all fruit and grain. Additionally, flowering plants help produce breathable oxygen, reducing the carbon dioxide in the air.

"We are incredibly proud of the ongoing efforts to reclaim state property and turn it back over to nature to provide safe habitats for pollinators. Whether that is creating a new dedicated conservation area or deliberate efforts to cut back on mowing, we continue expanding these areas every year to help create a more sustainable environment," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Just as our roads and highways connect people, we're creating pollinator corridors to ensure these critical species can travel freely throughout Connecticut and the region. Our conservation areas are helping pollinators thrive."

Motorists traveling throughout Connecticut can see these corridors near highway ramps, medians, and along roadside shoulders. While these sites are truly picturesque, motorists are reminded to not put themselves in danger, and do not stop on the highway to take photos or videos of the conservation areas.

For more information about the CTDOT Pollinator Program, visit the CTDOT Vegetation Management Guidelines.

For more information about National Pollinator Week and the importance of pollinators, visit pollinator.org.


Wednesday, June 12, 2024

CTDOT Announces Results from the 2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge

🌎🚆🚴‍♂️🚍 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Announces Results from the 2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge

Over 525,000 miles of travel eliminated during the annual Challenge

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced the results of the 2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge. During the Challenge, residents across Connecticut united to reduce their carbon footprint by choosing sustainable travel options rather than driving alone. The 2024 event ran from April 22 through May 31, 2024 and surpassed all established goals and metrics.

During the Challenge, more than 700 participants logged over 13,000 trips which removed 444,000 pounds of harmful emissions from the air by eliminating almost 525,000 miles of travel. The 2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge also introduced an exciting new partnership with One Tree Planted, and due to this year's participation, 1,000 trees will be planted.

"This year's Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge was very successful because many of our residents wanted to do their part and reduce their carbon footprint," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Thank you to this year's participants for your commitment to environmental stewardship and making a difference. These results show what we can achieve together in the fight against climate change."

Here are highlights from the 2024 Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge:

  • Participation: 740 residents and employees joined the Challenge by recording at least one green trip.
  • Public Transit Usage: Participants logged over 13,750 trips on the state's trains and buses.
  • Sustainable Travel Choices: More than 2,700 carpool trips and more than 2,500 bike trips were recorded.
  • Employer Support: Numerous employers across Connecticut hosted events encouraging employees to reduce car usage and adopt greener commuting options, including transit, carpools, vanpools, biking, walking, and telecommuting.
  • Tree Planting: 1,000 trees will be planted thanks to participants meeting the goal of eliminating at least 30,000 car trips.

The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge was organized by CTrides, the CTDOT's sustainable and active transportation services program. As part of the campaign, the public was encouraged to download the CTrides app or visit CTrides.com to learn more about the DLC and track its progress. To further incentivize participation, CTrides also held prize gift card drawings for those who logged sufficient trips. In addition, participants received weekly updates on their personal progress toward the Drive Less Challenge goals and their eligibility for prize drawings, fostering engagement and motivation throughout the challenge period.

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About CTrides: CTrides is the Connecticut Department of Transportation's sustainable and active transportation services program, dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly travel options to reduce congestion and improve air quality across the state. For more information about the program, please visit: www.ctrides.com.