Your Luck Won’t Save You: Drive Sober This St. Patrick’s Day

CTDOT Urges Safe Celebrations Throughout the State ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Your Luck Won't Save You: Drive Sober This St. Patrick's Day Posted on March 13 , 2026 As St. Patrick's Day approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is reminding everyone to plan ahead, celebrate responsibly, and always have a safe and sober way to get home. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated each year on March 17, and the surrounding holiday period remains one of the most dangerous times for alcohol-impaired driving. According to NHTSA, 284 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes during the St. Patrick's Day holiday period from 2019 to 2023. In 2023 alone, during that holiday period, 63 people died in drunk-driving crashes. Connecticut is not immune to the dangers of impaired driving. In Connecticut in 2023, the most recent year with verified data, 113 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes – representing 37% of all fatalities that year. "St. Patrick's Day is a time for fun and celebration, but it can also be one of the deadliest times of the year on the road," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "No amount of luck can protect you if you drive impaired. Have a plan for a sober ride home and help ensure everyone enjoys the holiday safely." "CSP recognizes that St. Patrick's Day is a day to celebrate heritage with friends and family," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "As always, our priority is to put safety first. So please, ditch the distractions while driving and never drive impaired." "If your St. Patrick's Day plans include celebrating with alcohol, please remember to designate a sober driver," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "Let's keep the luck going by keeping our roadways safe. Celebrate responsibly and help make St. Patrick's Day fun and safe for everyone." CTDOT urges everyone to follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and festive holiday: Designate a sober driver before going out, or plan to use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation to get home safely. Prepare in advance by installing ride-sharing apps on your phone and saving local taxi numbers. Sign up for alerts and visit your transit provider's website for schedule details. Be a responsible friend by taking the keys away from anyone who is impaired and helping them find a sober ride home. See something, say something by calling 911 if you spot an impaired driver on the road. Driving under the influence of alcohol not only puts the impaired driver at risk, but also endangers passengers, other road users, and the entire community. CTDOT and NHTSA are working together to remind everyone that even a small amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive safely. For more information on the dangers of impaired driving and how to keep our roads safe, visit nhtsa.gov. 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 Announces Rail Freight Infrastructure Program Awards

Web Version     CTDOT Announces Rail Freight Infrastructure Program Awards Posted on March 11 , 2026 $20 million in grants being issued to support freight rail safety and reliability The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced the award of $20 million in grants through the Rail Freight Infrastructure Program, supporting projects that enhance safety, expand capacity, and strengthen the long-term reliability of Connecticut's freight rail network. These new grant awards are also supplemented by nearly $4 million in private railroad investment, reflecting the strong public‑private partnerships that are central to maintaining an efficient statewide freight system. Together, these combined investments will help reduce highway congestion, support economic growth, and improve freight mobility across Connecticut. "Connecticut's freight rail network is moving essential supplies and goods across the region that people and businesses rely on every day," said Governor Ned Lamont. "A strong economy depends on reliable infrastructure, and that's exactly what these investments deliver. These grants reflect our strong partnership with the freight railroads and our shared commitment to safety and reliability." "Improving the state's freight rail infrastructure is a critical component of strengthening Connecticut's economy. Investments in freight rail make the supply chain more resilient, create jobs, and establish a strong system for future commerce," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "These improvements will allow more freight to be moved safely and more quickly, while reducing highway congestion and air pollution. I look forward to the continued partnership with the freight railroads as we keep the state's and region's economy moving forward." According to the American Association of Railroads (AAR), 2.6 million tons of freight originated in Connecticut in 2023, and another 1.6 million tons terminated in the state. Railroads in Connecticut move essential commodities including stone and aggregate, agricultural goods, municipal solid waste, construction materials, fuel products, metals, paper, heavy equipment, and intermodal containers. The Rail Freight Infrastructure Program grants awarded include: Connecticut Southern Railroad (CSO): $4,463,668. Work includes structural repairs to the Connecticut River Freight Bridge, a critical link whose rehabilitation will extend the life of the structure. CSO will also replace four grade crossing surfaces in East Hartford to enhance railroad and motorist safety, replace worn turnouts and rail in its Hartford yard to improve switching operations, and replace rail in Wethersfield to support more reliable train movements. Housatonic Railroad Company (HRRC): $2,636,382. Work includes replacing two grade crossing surfaces in New Milford, which will enhance railroad and motorist safety, as well as replace deteriorated ties along its corridor. The tie replacement, combined with ballast and surfacing work, will enhance the overall state of good repair of the line and reduce the risk of derailments. Naugatuck Railroad (NAUG): $4,571,673.30. Work includes a series of improvements including the replacement of four grade crossing surfaces in Torrington and upgrades to two crossing signals, both of which will significantly improve roadway safety. NAUG will also replace older worn rail, install new ties and switch ties, and construct a new customer turnout and a new public track turnout. Additional work includes adding new car storage track and replacing bridge ties. These projects will increase operational flexibility and support the railroad's customer base. New England Central Railroad (NECR): $1,563,689. Work includes grade crossing improvements in Franklin and Windham, relocation of signal infrastructure, replacement of worn rail, and both bridge tie and structural bridge repairs. These investments will improve safety, support higher capacity rail movements, and extend the useful life of key assets on the line. Providence and Worcester Railroad (P&W): $4,911,520. Work includes the replacement of rail on the Wethersfield Secondary, enabling it to accommodate 286,000 pound freight cars, the current national industry standard. This upgrade will allow shippers to move more freight per railcar, improving efficiency and reducing transportation costs. P&W will also replace four grade crossing surfaces in Wethersfield and replace ties and switch ties with ballast and surfacing, strengthening both safety and reliability. Pan Am Southern (PAS): $1,853,047. Work includes rail replacement, bridge tie work, upgrades to crossing warning devices, and turnout improvements. These investments will enhance both train handling and public safety while improving the long-term performance of the corridor and complementing the railroad's planned work. Authorization of the funding for the Rail Freight Infrastructure Program is based on Connecticut General Statute §13b-236, with the state legislature approving $20 million in grant funding for this award cycle. For more information on freight movement in Connecticut, visit portal.ct.gov/dot/programs/freight. 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

Don’t Ignore a Recall: Check Your Vehicle

🚗✅ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Don't Ignore a Recall: Check Your Vehicle Posted on March 3 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging drivers to check their vehicles and address any outstanding recalls during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week, which is March 2-8, 2026. In Connecticut, there are nearly 500,000 vehicles that currently have open safety recalls – many involving critical systems such as airbags, brakes, steering components, and tires. Nationwide, more than 54.5 million vehicles have at least one unresolved safety recall, according to the latest data from CARFAX. Of these, over 14 million vehicles have two or more open recalls, increasing the likelihood that serious safety defects may go unrepaired. Officials are also highlighting the nearly one million vehicles nationwide that have open recalls for defective child seat LATCH connectors, according to CARFAX. LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is the child seat anchoring system required in most vehicles manufactured since 2003. Defective LATCH systems can prevent child seats from being properly secured. "Open vehicle recalls are a serious safety risk," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "It only takes a few minutes to check your vehicle, and addressing recalls promptly can prevent injuries and save lives. We urge all Connecticut drivers to act now during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week." "Open recalls can compromise the vehicle's performance and safety," said Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony Guerrera. "For the safety of all drivers and passengers, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle has no outstanding recalls." Checking for Recalls is Free and Easy Drivers can visit NHTSA.gov/Recalls and enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate number to check for open recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are always free at authorized dealerships. Connecticut drivers can also use CheckToProtect.org, a national campaign led by the National Safety Council, to quickly check if their vehicle has an open recall. Check To Protect provides clear instructions and resources to schedule free recall repairs. Vehicle owners can also sign up for alerts to stay informed about future recalls. Drivers can also: Download NHTSA's free SaferCar app to receive automatic notifications if a recall is issued. Save multiple vehicles, car seats, tires, or other equipment in the app for ongoing monitoring. Although manufacturers send recall notices by mail and email, drivers should check for recalls at least twice a year to ensure their vehicles remain safe. CTDOT is committed to promoting safe driving practices and protecting all who travel on Connecticut's roadways. To learn more, please visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.  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

Public Invited to Comment on the Environmental Assessment/Environmental Impact Evaluation for Future Work on the Saugatuck River Swing Bridge in Westport

Web Version     Public Invited to Comment on the Environmental Assessment/Environmental Impact Evaluation for Future Work on the Saugatuck River Swing Bridge in Westport Posted on February 17 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today published a draft environmental assessment for future work on the Saugatuck River Swing Bridge in Westport. CTDOT is exploring potential alternatives for the rehabilitation or replacement of the historic structure, commonly referred to as the Cribari Bridge, with the environmental assessment documents explaining various project alternatives. The 60-day public comment period is now open and will close on April 17, 2026. Additionally, CTDOT will be holding an in-person public hearing in Westport on March 19, 2026, where feedback on the project and environmental documents will be accepted in-person. View and comment on the environmental assessment documents here. "The Saugatuck River Swing Bridge is an important part of Westport's history and Connecticut's transportation network. As we plan for its future, we are committed to a transparent process that values public input, meets the current and future needs of travelers, and preserves the character of this historic landmark," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. "We encourage residents and stakeholders to review these documents and share their feedback during the public comment period." If CTDOT, in coordination with the local community, opts for an alternative that includes a full replacement of the bridge, the superstructure will be made available for potential relocation and reuse, in adherence of Section 4(f) of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) environmental review legislation. CTDOT is seeking preliminary Letters of Interest to relocate, rehabilitate, use, and maintain the bridge.  [Download in high quality] [Download in high quality] Interested parties are requested to submit a Letter of Interest to CTDOT by April 17, 2026, indicating their intention for reuse of the bridge. If CTDOT opts to replace the Saugatuck River Swing Bridge, it will contact the interested parties and request formal proposals for the preservation and future use of the bridge Those interested in obtaining ownership of the bridge for aesthetic, historic, recreation, or other preservation uses should contact Heather Carpini-Prescott, CTDOT Transportation Planner 2 – Architectural Historian (heather.carpini-prescott@ct.gov; 860-594-2437). Letters of Interest may be sent via email, but must be received by the close of business on April 17, 2026. CTDOT reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to withdraw this invitation at any time, before or after submissions are received. For more information on the Cribari Bridge project, view and comment on the environmental assessment documents, learn more about upcoming public meetings, and more details on how to submit a letter of interest to relocate, rehabilitate, reuse, and maintain the bridge, please visit ct.gov/dot/cribari-bridge. 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 Launches New Awareness Campaign: “Pass Left. Drive Right.”

New statewide campaign reminds drivers that the left lane is for passing only ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Launches New Awareness Campaign: "Pass Left. Drive Right." Posted on February 13 , 2026 New statewide campaign reminds drivers that the left lane is for passing only The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has launched a new statewide public awareness safety campaign, "Pass Left. Drive Right," to remind drivers that the left lane is for passing. The campaign encourages motorists to keep right except for when passing slower traffic, preparing for a left exit, or allowing other vehicles to merge safely. Under Connecticut law, it is illegal to drive in the left lane on a multi-lane highway unless actively passing another vehicle, preparing for a left-hand exit, or avoiding an obstruction. Beginning October 1, 2026, new provisions will strengthen enforcement, and violators may face an $88 fine. This stems from a new law from last legislative session, which clarified that the law applies to all limited access highways with multiple lanes. CTDOT's campaign encourages drivers to learn and follow the law now to avoid penalties, reduce congestion, prevent aggressive driving, and make highways safer for everyone. Watch the campaign TV spot here: "Pass Left. Drive Right." "Camping out in the left lane when you're not passing creates frustration and unsafe conditions for everyone on the road," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We want drivers to get into the habit to pass on the left, then move back to the right. It's safer, it's courteous, and it keeps traffic moving." Misuse of the left lane is a common source of frustration on highways for Connecticut drivers. Many motorists report frequently encountering vehicles that remain in the left lane without passing. CTDOT is raising awareness to improve driving habits before enhanced enforcement begins in 2026. "Left-lane misuse causes unnecessary tailgating, weaving, and aggressive driving that can quickly lead to serious crashes," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "Troopers will keep educating and enforcing to ensure Connecticut's highways are safe for everyone. The simple rule is pass on the left, then move right." The campaign, which began rolling out statewide in October 2025, features attention-grabbing ads and Connecticut-based spokespeople who remind drivers of the law and the $88 fine for violations. The initiative is part of CTDOT's broader Drive to Save Lives program, which promotes safer driving behaviors statewide. Here's what drivers need to know:     Keep Right Except to Pass: Use the right or middle lanes unless passing another vehicle or preparing for a left exit. Avoid Passing on the Right: It's dangerous and can cause crashes. Don't Tailgate: If someone is driving slowly in the left lane, stay patient and give them space. Move Over for Emergency Vehicles: Connecticut's Move Over Law may require a temporary move into the left lane but return right as soon as it's safe. Be Alert in Work Zones: Lane restrictions and reduced speeds are common in work zones. Always follow posted signs and move right when possible. Changes to the statute CTDOT included in Public Act No. 25-65 last legislative session clarified that the law includes all limited access highways with multiple lanes. For more information about Connecticut's left lane law and safe driving practices, visit DriveToSaveLivesCT.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