Wednesday, April 15, 2026

CTDOT To Host 2026 Transportation Showcase On April 28

Register for this free event before it reaches capacity! ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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Connecticut On the Move: CTDOT To Host 2026 Transportation Showcase On April 28

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) invites the public to join the 2026 Transportation Showcase titled “Connecticut on the Move” on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The free event runs from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Parkville Market, 1390 Park Street in Hartford. Registration is now open at ctrides2026transportationshowcase.eventbrite.com/.

The annual Transportation Showcase highlights how transportation decisions shape daily life across Connecticut and support the state’s economy, workforce, and communities. Through CTrides, the CTDOT program that promotes a wide range of transportation options, works to expand access to transportation, reduce congestion, and support economic growth statewide. Attendees will hear from public and private sector leaders about current initiatives, future investments, and how transportation improvements are strengthening access and opportunity across the state.

“Transportation shapes daily life. It connects people to work, school, health care, and essential community resources,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. “The Transportation Showcase brings public and private partners together to share progress, highlight innovation, and ensure our transportation investments deliver real benefits to residents, businesses, and communities across the state.”

The free event includes networking, breakfast, and two moderated panel discussions:

Transportation Is Changing. Here’s What’s Next” will be moderated by NBC Connecticut’s Andrew Rowan and will explore major transportation investments and initiatives underway across Connecticut.

How Transportation Is Powering Connecticut’s Economy” will be moderated by Connecticut Public’s Catherine Shen and will focus on transportation’s role in economic development and regional growth.

Scheduled panelists include:

  • Jill Cahoon, Vice President, Transit & Rail Planning Lead, AECOM
  • Chris DiPentima, CEO, Connecticut Business & Industry Association
  • Garrett Eucalitto, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation
  • Matt Hart, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments
  • Yvette Highsmith, Regional Vice President, Community Health Center, Inc.
  • Dr. Eric Jackson, Executive Director, Connecticut Transportation Institute
  • Carlos Mouta, Owner and CEO, Parkville Market
  • Jeremy Tillunger, Director of Public Policy, Via

CTDOT encourages attendees to travel by public transportation, with the event venue a short distance from the Parkville CTfastrak Station. A complimentary bus pass will be provided for those requesting one to attend the event.

To learn more or reserve a spot, visit ctrides2026transportationshowcase.eventbrite.com/.


Monday, April 13, 2026

CTDOT Launches Statewide Litter Cleanup Blitz to Address Rising Roadway Trash

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CTDOT Launches Statewide Litter Cleanup Blitz to Address Rising Roadway Trash

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced a statewide litter picking blitz in response to an increase in trash being discarded along state roads and highways. This initiative launched on Monday, April 13, 2026, and will run through Friday, April 17, 2026.

CTDOT maintenance crews are actively removing discarded cups, bottles, fast-food containers, and other debris illegally dumped along the roadside. While the agency is committed to maintaining the state’s roadway system, it’s up to the public to do their part.

“Our team is out there cleaning up day after day, but the reality is simple: the trash we’re picking up is being thrown by the public. Connecticut’s roads don’t become littered on their own,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Time spent picking up litter is time taken away from other critical roadway maintenance. The public can make a difference by properly disposing their trash.”

While litter removal efforts are ongoing year-round, this targeted blitz focuses on high-impact areas where roadside debris has steadily increased in recent weeks.

The campaign is being held one week prior to National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW). NWZAW is an annual spring campaign held at the start of construction season to encourage safe driving in and around highway work zones.

Drivers are reminded to slow down and move over when approaching a work zone, remain alert, avoid distractions, and always drive sober. These simple actions save lives.

To learn more about Work Zone Safety, visit ObeyTheOrange.com.

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

CTDOT Announces Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign

Statewide effort urges drivers to stay focused as law enforcement increases patrols during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Announces Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign and public awareness initiative in recognition of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. CTDOT kicked off the campaign at the Hartford Police Department.

Law enforcement agencies will ramp up their distracted driving enforcement efforts in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for their "Put the Phone Away or Pay" campaign from April 1 through April 30, 2026. During this period, officers across Connecticut will focus on identifying and citing drivers who engage in unsafe behaviors such as texting, using electronic handheld devices, or otherwise diverting their attention from the road.

Alongside enforcement efforts, CTDOT will continue its public awareness campaign highlighting the dangers of distracted driving and encouraging drivers to remain focused every time they get behind the wheel.

Distracted driving remains a serious safety issue on roads across the country and in Connecticut. In 2023, national data from NHTSA shows 3,275 were killed in distracted driving crashes. In Connecticut in 2023, there were 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving – resulting in 12 fatalities and 78 serious injuries.

"Driving requires your full attention every second you're on the road," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Even a brief distraction, such as checking a notification or sending a quick text, can lead to devastating consequences. This campaign is a reminder that distracted driving is dangerous, illegal, and entirely preventable."

"Connecticut State Troopers see the devastating and tragic effects of distracted driving on our roads and highways every day. Distracted driving crashes are preventable -- I urge all drivers to keep their full attention on the road," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "When you, the motoring public, partner with us in safety, travel is safer across all of Connecticut."

"Police departments across Connecticut will be actively enforcing distracted driving laws throughout April," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "Reducing distracted driving is a shared responsibility, and we urge drivers to put their phones down and stay focused so everyone can travel safely." 

Six Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving:

CTDOT encourages motorists to make safe driving a habit by eliminating distractions before and during every trip:

  • Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call. Never handle your phone while driving.
  • Ask a passenger to help manage navigation or messages so you can focus on the road.
  • Avoid checking social media while driving. No message or post is worth risking a crash.
  • Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program navigation or music before starting your trip.
  • Use your phone's "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature or silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device.

Remember a text or a call is not worth your life, it can wait.

For more information about distracted driving prevention and safety resources, visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.


Monday, March 30, 2026

CTDOT Announces the Start of 2026 Ferry Season

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry will once again be open to passengers starting at 7am this Wednesday! ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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CTDOT Announces the Start of 2026 Ferry Season

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is excited to announce the return of ferry service on the Connecticut River for the 2026 season. Beginning at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry will once again be open to passengers. The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry will open later, as elevated water levels on the Connecticut River near the landings do not allow service to begin.

Open to pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers, the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry and the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry offer a travel experience unlike almost anywhere else in the United States. Last season, the two services together carried approximately 91,000 passengers and 42,000 vehicles across the river.

"With spring comes the return of one of our most beloved traditions: the opening of ferry season on the Connecticut River," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. "These ferries are a great option no matter how you're traveling. We can't wait to welcome back our regular riders and hope new ones will take the opportunity to see what makes these services so special."

Established in 1655, the Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry is the longest-running continuously operating ferry service in the nation. Horses on treadmills once provided the power to move the vessel, and today, a three-car barge named the Hollister III is towed back and forth by the Cumberland, a diesel-powered tugboat. The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry dates to 1769, with the current vessel, the Selden III, providing safe, reliable service for more than 75 years. Built to carry eight or nine cars and as many as 49 passengers, the ferry features propellers and rudders at both ends, allowing it to reverse course without ever turning around.

When in service, the ferries operate weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cash or check payment is accepted on board. Fares can also be paid through the Token Transit app or via QR code at the landing.

Riders should be aware that service is subject to change due to weather, water conditions, or mechanical issues. Real-time updates and delay notifications are available through CTroads.org.

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


Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective April 21, 2026

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Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective April 21, 2026

 Some weekday trains will be replaced with bus service during Amtrak construction projects

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting customers of upcoming train service adjustments on the Hartford Line effective Tuesday, April 21, 2026, through Friday, October 30, 2026.

Due to several construction projects being performed by Amtrak, select weekday trains will be replaced with bus service between Springfield and Hartford, and one Amtrak train will be bused the entire route.

Construction work will occur Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Additional details, including the temporary schedule, will be released in April 2026.

These service adjustments are required to support several infrastructure improvements along the corridor being performed by Amtrak, including a track improvement project at the new Windsor Locks Station site. Planned work includes installing new interlockings, drainage improvements, and maintenance and safety upgrades at several rail grade crossings.

"These infrastructure projects are a vital step in modernizing the Hartford Line," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. "A new Windsor Locks station, upgraded track infrastructure, and safer crossings will deliver more reliable and accessible service for everyone who depends on this line. We thank the public for their patience as this work is completed."

Passengers are encouraged to purchase rail tickets in advance of boarding. CTrail passengers may buy tickets using the CTrail eTix mobile ticketing app or at CTrail ticket vending machines located at stations.

Riders are also encouraged to visit HartfordLine.com or Amtrak.com for the latest service information and can sign up to receive alerts directly to their phone or email at HartfordLine.com/service-alerts.

For more information about rail services across Connecticut, visit CTrail.com.


Thursday, March 19, 2026

CTDOT Highlights Pedestrian Safety as Spring Arrives

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CTDOT Highlights Pedestrian Safety as Spring Arrives

Longer Days Call for Extra Caution on Connecticut Roads

As snow and ice give way to spring, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) urges all roadway users to stay alert and keep safety top of mind.

With warmer weather and longer daylight hours drawing more people outside to walk, jog, and bike, CTDOT is reminding everyone to use extra caution to help prevent crashes and injuries.

Preliminary data for 2024 shows that there were more than 1,400 crashes involving pedestrians on Connecticut roads, resulting in 62 fatalities. In 2025, preliminary data shows that there were 65 pedestrian fatalities. As of March 18, 2026, preliminary data for 2026 shows that there have been 7 pedestrians killed in Connecticut. 

"After a long winter, it's natural for people to want to get outside for fun, recreation, or exercise. With increased outdoor activities comes increased risks to bicyclists and pedestrians," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We're urging everyone to slow down, stay focused, drive sober, and remember that safety never takes a season off. Do your part to keep everyone on the road safe."

Under Connecticut law, pedestrians have the right of way in many situations, particularly at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must remain attentive, obey posted speed limits, and yield when required.

CTDOT encourages the following safety practices:

For Drivers:

  • Reduce speed, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
  • Be prepared to stop at crosswalks and intersections.
  • Watch carefully for pedestrians when turning.
  • Avoid distractions and never drive impaired.
  • Use extra caution in neighborhoods, school zones, and parking areas.

For Pedestrians:

  • Use sidewalks whenever available and cross at marked crosswalks.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
  • Stay visible during early morning and evening hours.
  • Avoid distractions, such as texting while walking.
  • Walk facing traffic if sidewalks are not present.

For Bicyclists:

  • Ride on the right in the direction of traffic and wear bright clothing or reflective gear to increase your visibility.
  • Wear a properly fitted helmet correctly on every ride to help prevent head injury.
  • Follow the rules of the road as though you were a car, obeying stop signs and traffic signals.

Additional safety information, including tips for parents, caregivers, and children, can be found at WatchForMeCT.org.