Thursday, May 14, 2026

A Call for Shared Roadway Responsibility During Older Americans Month

Help protect older adults on Connecticut roadways ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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A Call for Shared Roadway Responsibility During Older Americans Month

With May marking Older Americans Month, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services (CTADS), and Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) are encouraging safer, more attentive driving habits to help protect older adults on Connecticut roadways.

In Connecticut in 2024, there were 1,474 crashes involving pedestrians and 61 pedestrian fatalities. Nationwide in 2024, 7,080 pedestrians were killed, and more than 71,000 were injured.

“Older Americans are vital members of our communities. Whether they are walking, driving, or riding as passengers, they deserve to feel safe every time they are traveling,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We all share the responsibility of staying alert, slowing down, and making safe choices behind the wheel so that every traveler, of every age, can get to their destination safely.”

“Older Americans Month reminds us that aging is about staying connected and engaged. Safe, accessible transportation supports that independence,” said Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services Commissioner Amy Porter. “By staying alert and sharing the road with care, we can help ensure older adults remain safe and active in our communities.”

“The Department of Motor Vehicles is committed to supporting older Americans as they continue to drive, stay independent, and remain engaged in their communities,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Tony Guerrera. “The DMV also encourages drivers aged 60 and older to take advantage of approved driving courses, which may qualify them for insurance discounts through participating insurers. Visit our website, ct.gov/dmv to learn more.”

The 2026 theme of Older Americans Month is “Champion Your Health,” highlighting the importance of making choices that support overall well-being. Transportation plays a critical role in helping older adults access essential services, remain active, and maintain independence, reinforcing the importance of roadway safety as part of healthy aging.

CTDOT continues to promote its “Words to Live By” public education campaign for older pedestrians in collaboration with AARP Connecticut and Watch for Me CT through May. This initiative raises awareness about the unique safety needs of older pedestrians and aligns with the mission of Older Americans Month.

Drivers are reminded of the following safety practices to help protect older adults traveling as drivers, pedestrians, and passengers:

  • Stay aware of all road users. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians all play a role in creating safer roadways by remaining alert and looking out for one another.
  • Adjust speed in areas with higher pedestrian activity. Slowing down near intersections, neighborhoods, and driveways provides more time to react to unexpected movement.
  • Yield fully and patiently at crosswalks. Older pedestrians may need additional time to cross safely, allow space, and never rush through crossings.
  • Be cautious around stopped vehicles. If a vehicle has stopped at a crosswalk, do not pass it; pedestrians may be crossing out of view.
  • Stay focused and avoid distractions. Keeping full attention on the road helps drivers better anticipate slower movement or sudden actions.
  • Drive responsibly and follow all traffic laws. This includes obeying speed limits and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Use extra caution in low-visibility conditions. Nighttime, rain, and other conditions can make pedestrians harder to see.
  • Check surroundings when reversing. Pedestrians, particularly those with limited mobility, may not be immediately visible.

For more information on pedestrian safety, visit nhsta.gov.


Monday, May 11, 2026

Click It or Ticket Campaign Begins May 11

National seat belt enforcement effort runs through May 31. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
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Click It or Ticket Campaign Begins May 11

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in partnership with the Connecticut State Police and local law enforcement agencies, is joining a national effort to keep motorists safe leading up to and during the Memorial Day holiday. The Click It or Ticket national seat belt enforcement campaign begins on May 11, 2026 and runs through May 31, 2026.

Law enforcement officers across Connecticut will be out in full force, issuing citations to drivers and passengers who fail to buckle up. The campaign aims to reinforce the importance of seat belt use and reduce preventable injuries and fatalities on Connecticut roadways.

In 2024, the last year of verifiable data, there were 9,758 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States. In Connecticut that same year, preliminary data shows that 57 people lost their lives on Connecticut roadways while not wearing seat belts.

Connecticut continues to outperform the national average in seat belt use, with a rate of 95% in 2024 compared to 91.2% nationwide. Despite this progress, officials stress that even one unbuckled occupant is too many. Connecticut law requires all drivers and passengers, in both front and back seats, to wear seat belts. Fines begin at a minimum of $92 for a first offense.

“Seat belts save lives and wearing one remains the single most effective way to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As traffic increases heading into the summer months, we’re reminding everyone that buckling up should be automatic, every trip, every time.”

“Safety is always the number one priority for Connecticut State Troopers patrolling local roads and state highways,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “As travel lanes become more crowded during the busy summer months, this is the best time to remind drivers and passengers to buckle up for safety. Please, take care of yourself and your passengers by buckling up.”

“Connecticut’s seat belt law exists to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries in crashes,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. “Not wearing a seat belt doesn’t just put you at risk; it can also lead to a $92 fine. Buckle up every time, in every seat.”

For more information, please visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/click-it-or-ticket. 


Friday, May 8, 2026

CTDOT Urges Drivers and Riders to Share the Road

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
Web Version    
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CTDOT Urges Drivers and Riders to Share the Road

As warmer weather brings more motorcyclists onto Connecticut roadways, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is reminding all drivers that safety is a shared responsibility during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month this May.

Motorcyclists face greater risks in crashes than occupants of passenger vehicles. In Connecticut, more than 50 motorcyclists are killed in crashes each year – reinforcing the need for awareness, education, and safe driving behaviors.

According to 2024 NHTSA data, 6,228 riders were killed in crashes across the country, representing 15% of all fatalities. Motorcyclists were 27 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants. Speeding and alcohol impairment continue to be the cause of many of these crashes.

“Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that every decision we make on the road matters,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “No matter how you travel, staying alert, following the law, and looking out for one another can prevent crashes and save lives. Let’s work together to ensure everyone gets to their destinations safely.”

CTDOT works year-round to reduce motorcycle-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities through education, outreach, and training programs. A cornerstone of this effort is the Connecticut Rider Education Program (CONREP), which provides essential training for new and experienced riders and is required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Connecticut. Registrations for classes are currently open, with more information available at portal.ct.gov/dot/travel-gateway/motorcycle-resources.

Motorcycle safety is a two-way responsibility. Both riders and drivers play a critical role in preventing crashes.

Safety Reminders for Drivers:

  • Always check blind spots and look twice for motorcycles when changing lanes or turning
  • Maintain a safe following distance
  • Use turn signals and exercise extra caution at intersections
  • Never drive distracted or impaired

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists:

  • Wear a DOT-certified helmet and full protective gear
  • Ride sober and distraction-free
  • Obey all traffic laws and speed limits
  • Increase visibility with bright or reflective gear
  • Take a rider education course and continue to build skills

CTDOT encourages residents to carry these safety habits beyond May and throughout the riding season.

For more information on motorcycle safety and training opportunities, visit portal.ct.gov/dot/travel-gateway/motorcycle-resources.


Wednesday, May 6, 2026

CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month

CTDOT is encouraging residents across the state to get outside and go for a ride ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌
Web Version    
DOT Seal

CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is celebrating National Bike Month this May by encouraging residents across the state to get outside and go for a ride. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or getting back on a bike for the first time in years, May is the perfect time to explore your community on wheels.

As part of National Bike Month, CTDOT took part in National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. CTDOT will also be participating in Bike to Work Day on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

“National Bike Month highlights the benefits of bicycling and the importance of providing safe, accessible options for people who choose to walk, bike, or roll,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “By taking part in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day or Bike to Work Day, schools and businesses are helping create a culture of active, sustainable transportation statewide.”

In 2005, CTDOT established a Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS). Since then, many communities participating in the SRTS Program have shown improved safety and accessibility for all students. The CTDOT SRTS Team has now expanded their bike and pedestrian safety and skills trainings to include an on-bike component. Communities and schools can request these services online.

CTDOT’s Active Transportation Micro-Grant Program also provides small, flexible grants to communities, schools, and organizations to fund projects that encourage walking and biking, improve safety, and foster awareness around active transportation. These micro-grants have helped implement initiatives such as bike racks, walking school buses, and pop-up safety demonstrations. This program empowers local partners to advance safe, active transportation improvements that can be implemented quickly and build momentum for longer-term infrastructure investments.

Those riding their bikes in May are also encouraged to sign up for the 2026 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge. The annual campaign, which runs through May 31, challenges everyone to drive less and explore more sustainable transportation options. For more information about the challenge, including how to win a prize, visit CTrides.com/DLC.


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.