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 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Announces Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign Posted on April 1 , 2026 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. 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 the Start of 2026 Ferry Season

The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry will once again be open to passengers starting at 7am this Wednesday! ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Announces the Start of 2026 Ferry Season Posted on March 30 , 2026 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. 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

Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective April 21, 2026

Web Version     Hartford Line Schedule Change Effective April 21, 2026 Posted on March 24 , 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. 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 Highlights Pedestrian Safety as Spring Arrives

Web Version     CTDOT Highlights Pedestrian Safety as Spring Arrives Posted on March 19 , 2026 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. 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

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