CTDOT, New Haven, Hamden Announce Completion of 12 Raised Crosswalks Along Farmington Canal Heritage Trail

CTDOT, the city of New Haven, and the town of Hamden today announced the completion of 12 raised crosswalks along the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail in New Haven and Hamden, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists at key trai ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT, New Haven, Hamden Announce Completion of 12 Raised Crosswalks Along Farmington Canal Heritage Trail Posted on July 9 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), the city of New Haven, and the town of Hamden today announced the completion of 12 raised crosswalks along the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail in New Haven and Hamden, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists at key trail crossings. The $2.16 million project constructed raised crosswalks at seven locations in New Haven and five locations in Hamden, creating safer crossings where the trail intersects with local streets. Over the past decade, 16 pedestrian and bicycle crashes have been recorded at or near these crossings. Local officials and trail users have also reported numerous near misses involving speeding vehicles and drivers failing to yield to people using the trail. "Some of the most meaningful transportation projects are the ones that respond to what communities are asking for," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "These raised crosswalks are a direct response to local safety concerns and will help make the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail safer for everyone who walks, bikes, or rolls through New Haven and Hamden." “The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is one of the gems of our city and state and a place where hundreds of residents go every day to walk, run, bike and scoot. We want everyone to be able to fully enjoy the trail and to be as safe as possible when they are exercising, commuting or just enjoying a recreational stroll with neighbors, family and friends. These new raised crosswalks will improve accessibility and safety for trail users and also provide folks with more peace of mind while on the trail,” said New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. “Last year, we completed the 1.6-mile trail leg and underground tunnel in downtown New Haven. Today, we’re celebrating new raised crosswalks at trail crossings. Later this year, we’ll finish the new trail link along lower State Street. We’re making the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail into a better, safer greenway as we realize our vision for an active, connected, green transportation and recreation system across New Haven and beyond.” “I appreciate all of the collaboration that went into these raised crosswalks, which will address a real safety need,” said Hamden Mayor Adam Sendroff. “Users of the Farmington Canal Trail will experience enhanced safety because of this project.” “When it comes to road safety, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal. “These new raised crosswalks will keep pedestrians and cyclists on the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail safe as they cross busy streets in New Haven and Hamden. Projects like these have a real impact on communities and I will keep fighting for federal funding for the Safe Streets For All program and others that help prevent tragedies on our roads.” “The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail provides an accessible, scenic opportunity for the local community to enjoy the outdoors,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. “With the completion of 12 raised crosswalks, pedestrians and cyclists in New Haven and Hamden will feel safer on the trail. I have been proud to secure funding for this project and will continue to support projects that improve our quality of life and increase road safety.” The project constructed new raised crosswalks at Munson Street, Division Street, Thompson Street, Shelton Avenue, Ivy Street, Brewster Street, and Bassett Street in New Haven, as well as Goodrich Street, Alling Street, Dudley Street, Morse Street, and Hamden Park Drive in Hamden. The city of New Haven and town of Hamden completed the project design, and CTDOT combined the designs into a single construction contract to deliver the improvements across both communities. The project was funded by a mix of 80 percent federal funding and 20 percent local funding. 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

Avoid Red, White, and Blue in Your Rearview Mirror This Fourth of July

CTDOT and Law Enforcement Remind Motorists to Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Avoid Red, White, and Blue in Your Rearview Mirror This Fourth of July Posted on July 2 , 2026 As residents prepare to celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th birthday, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), Connecticut State Police, and local law enforcement agencies are reminding everyone to make safe choices this holiday weekend. The Fourth of July holiday consistently ranks among the deadliest times of the year for impaired driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from 2020 to 2024, there were 2,719 people killed in motor vehicle crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period – 38% of the drivers killed were impaired. In Connecticut, impaired driving continues to be a leading factor in fatal crashes. In 2024, the most recent year with verified data, 105 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, representing 34% of all traffic fatalities in the state. “Whether you're attending a backyard barbecue, watching fireworks, or spending time with family and friends, make sure getting home safely is part of your plans,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Choose a sober driver, use a rideshare or taxi service, take public transportation, or simply stay where you are. Impaired driving is entirely preventable, and every driver has a responsibility to help keep Connecticut's roads safe.” The Fourth of July holiday also falls during the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities traditionally increase, particularly among young drivers. “Your Connecticut State Troopers will be on the roads and highways of Connecticut this long holiday weekend enforcing traffic laws and putting public safety first,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “We encourage all motorists and passengers to buckle up, follow posted speed limits, ditch the distractions, and never drive while impaired. We ask all drivers to be our partners in public safety this weekend and throughout the summer.” “Connecticut law enforcement agencies remind everyone to celebrate our nation's Independence Day responsibly by designating a sober driver,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. “Additional patrols will be deployed across the state to identify and apprehend impaired drivers, helping keep Connecticut's roads safe for all travelers.” CTDOT offers the following reminders for a safe holiday weekend: Never drive impaired. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect judgment and reaction time. Plan for a sober ride before celebrations begin. Use a rideshare service, taxi, public transportation, or designate a sober driver. Speak up if someone is about to drive after drinking. Helping a friend find another way home could save a life. Report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911. For more information about the dangers of drunk driving, 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 Reminds Customers of Substitute Busing for All Trains on the Waterbury Branch Line from July 20, 2026, through May 31, 2027

Substitute busing required for ongoing station upgrades along the line. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Reminds Customers of Substitute Busing for All Trains on the Waterbury Branch Line from July 20, 2026, through May 31, 2027 Posted on June 28 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is alerting riders that due to major upgrades to four Metro-North Waterbury Branch Line (WBL) stations in Derby-Shelton, Ansonia, Beacon Falls, and Seymour, substitute bus service will replace all train service from July 20, 2026, through May 31, 2027. Substitute bus service will be effective for all weekday and weekend trains, and all buses are accessible. Please note that buses will operate earlier than scheduled trains.  View the bus schedule The WBL station upgrades include new 350-foot platforms designed to accommodate full train boarding, covered canopies and enclosed windscreens to improve comfort in all weather conditions. Because the line operates on a single track, major work at the Ansonia and Beacon Falls stations cannot be completed safely while trains are running. This includes shifting the track to align with the new, longer platforms. Stations will also feature real-time arrival information, ticket vending machines, improved lighting, and clear wayfinding. Each location will be ADA accessible, with better pedestrian access and safer passenger flow. These projects are part of a broader statewide initiative to upgrade all six stations along the Waterbury Branch Line between 2025 and 2028. The temporary outage also allows CTDOT to advance bridge, signal, and other infrastructure upgrades between Stratford and Bridgeport where the Waterbury Branch Line connects to the New Haven Line. By completing these efforts together, the state expects to save Connecticut taxpayers more than $47 million and shorten the Waterbury Station improvements by approximately one year. “The improvements underway are built to last for decades and represent an investment in the long-term future of this corridor,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. “We’re grateful for the patience and flexibility of customers during construction that ultimately will deliver a dramatically better experience for everyone who travels the Waterbury Branch Line.” For more information, including project details, renderings, and photos of the existing stations, visit portal.ct.gov/WBLstations. For real-time service updates and information, customers are encouraged to use the following options: MTA.info – The definitive source for service change information for each line in the MTA system. Customers can find the current status on mta.info and upcoming planned service changes using the lookup tool at mta.info/alerts. TrainTime app – The MTA’s TrainTime app is the essential companion to navigating the commuter rail system. Customers can plan their trip, purchase tickets, check train status, and chat with customer service, all in one app. The app is available in the Apple Store and Google Play. Email & Text Alerts – Customers can sign up for email and SMS alerts tailored to their specific commutes and travel times. They can also sign up for MTA newsletters like The Weekender, a weekly newsletter that covers major weekend planned service changes. Customers can sign up at mta.info/notify. Telephone – For customers who prefer to contact the MTA by telephone, information is available by dialing 877-690-5114 from Connecticut or 511 from New York. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use their preferred service provider for the free 711 relay to reach the MTA at the numbers above. 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

2026 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge Exceeds All Goals

🚴‍♂️🚶‍♀️🚆🚍 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     2026 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge Exceeds All Goals Posted on June 26 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced that the 2026 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge surpassed every campaign goal. This year’s Challenge ran from April 22 through May 31, 2026. The Drive Less Connecticut Challenge is an annual initiative organized by CTrides, CTDOT’s statewide commuter services program, and encourages residents to choose sustainable travel options that reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote mobility choices across the state. Record Participation: More than 1,200 people logged at least one alternative trip, surpassing 2025 totals. In addition, 1,732 individuals pledged to drive less during the campaign. More than 43,000 Sustainable Trips Logged: Participants used trains, buses, carpools, vanpools, bicycles, and walking to log more than 43,000 trips, exceeding the program goal of 36,750 trips. 630,000 Miles Eliminated: Alternative travel choices removed nearly 630,000 single-occupant vehicle miles from Connecticut’s roadways, surpassing the goal of 575,000 miles. More than 593,000 Pounds of Emissions Prevented: The shift to other forms of transportation prevented more than 593,000 pounds of emissions from entering Connecticut’s air, surpassing the goal of 490,000 pounds. $456,000 in Estimated Savings: Participants collectively saved an estimated $456,000 in fuel, vehicular wear, and maintenance costs, surpassing the goal of $390,000 in savings.  “Every year, the Drive Less Connecticut Challenge shows how powerful individual choices can be when thousands of people work toward the same goal,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “This year’s results demonstrate a growing commitment to cleaner air, healthier communities, and a more sustainable transportation future. Residents across Connecticut are choosing a wide range of options, including public transportation, shared-ride programs, and active transportation such as walking and biking. Your efforts make a real difference, and we look forward to keeping this momentum going.” The 2026 Challenge was supported through a combination of direct outreach and statewide marketing. CTrides partnered with employers, municipalities, community-based organizations, and transit operators to promote the event at the local level. Participants logged their trips through the CTrides app and dedicated website, where they received weekly progress updates and prize eligibility notifications.  In addition, 1,000 trees were donated through One Tree Planted to be planted in critical reforestation projects. About CTrides: CTrides, a program of the Connecticut Department of Transportation, promotes a wide range of transportation options to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and expand travel choices throughout Connecticut. 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 Pollinator Week

National Pollinator Week is June 22-28, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Celebrates National Pollinator Week Posted on June 22 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is highlighting ongoing efforts to help pollinators thrive during National Pollinator Week, June 22-28, 2026. Launched in 2017 with eight sites totaling about 10 acres, the CTDOT Pollinator Program has expanded significantly over the years. The program has grown to 167 conservation areas, comprising of approximately 260 acres. WATCH: CTDOT Pollinator Week Video & Sound The Pollinator Program aims to cultivate critical habitats for pollinators – including bees and monarch butterflies – through targeted seeding efforts and vegetation management, such as reduced mowing practices. These conservation areas are then mowed in the fall, in preparation for the next growing season. “We remain committed to creating safe, thriving habitats for pollinators across Connecticut. These species play a vital role in our food systems – and in sustaining our ecosystems,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Through CTDOT’s efforts to establish new conservation areas and reduce mowing practices, we continue to grow these spaces each year. We are proud to support this nationwide push to help pollinators thrive.” 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 grains. The CTDOT pollinator corridors, which bloom in late-June and continue through the summer months, are marked with special conservation area signage. People traveling throughout Connecticut can see these corridors near highway ramps, medians, and along roadside shoulders. While these sites are beautiful to see, motorists are reminded to not put themselves in danger by stopping on the highway to take photos or videos of the conservation areas. For more information about National Pollinator Week and the importance of pollinators, visit pollinator.org. 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

As Summer Travel Increases, So Do Safety Risks on Connecticut Roads

Web Version     As Summer Travel Increases, So Do Safety Risks on Connecticut Roads Posted on June 18 , 2026 CTDOT reminds drivers to stay alert as travel, construction, and outdoor activity increase As Connecticut enters the busy summer season, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging motorists to stay alert and be prepared for increased activity on the roads. Summer brings more vehicles to Connecticut’s roads as residents and visitors travel to destinations across the state. At the same time, construction crews are advancing critical infrastructure projects in active highway work zones, and more pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are out enjoying the warmer weather. Together, these conditions create a roadway environment that requires every driver’s full attention. Historically, the summer months mark the deadliest period on Connecticut's roadways. In Connecticut in 2024, the most recent year with verified data, there were 116 traffic fatalities and 587 serious injuries between June and September. More than one-third of those fatalities (38%) involved motorcyclists. “Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy everything Connecticut has to offer, but the most important destination is always getting home safely,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As travel picks up during the summer months, we’re urging every driver to make safety a top priority. Buckling up, slowing down, staying alert, and never driving impaired are simple choices that can save lives.” “We ask all drivers to ‘think safety’ whenever they travel on the roads and highways of Connecticut,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “During the summer, we see more traffic as residents begin their vacations, take day trips to the beach, or meet with friends at barbeques. Safey means ditching the distractions, slowing down for construction zones, and following posted speed limits. Please move over when you see first responders on the side of the road helping out those in need.”  Before every trip, CTDOT encourages drivers to ask themselves: Am I giving my full attention to driving? Have I checked for road conditions, delays, or construction activity? Is everyone in the vehicle wearing a seat belt? Am I prepared to slow down and share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists? Am I rested and ready to drive safely? Taking a few moments to answer these questions can help make every trip safer and contribute to safer roads for everyone. To learn more about safe driving practices this summer, 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